What starts as a minor inconvenience—like a slow drain—can quickly spiral into a major and expensive plumbing disaster. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average household’s leaks can account for nearly 10,000 gallons of wasted water every year. When those leaks stem from a damaged sewer line, the cost isn’t just higher water bills—it can mean structural damage, health hazards, and extensive yard excavation.
At Lords of Plumbing, we’ve seen how fast a hidden sewer issue can escalate. As one of the most experienced plumbing teams offering sewer repair services, we know what to look for and how to act fast. Our team is known for offering one of the best trench sewer services available in Los Angeles—giving homeowners peace of mind with minimal disruption.
In this article, we’ll show you the five warning signs that your sewer line may be failing and why ignoring them could cost you thousands.
1. Persistent Sewer Odors Indoors or Outdoors
If you’re noticing a consistent foul smell around your property or inside your home, it’s a red flag. Sewer gas has a distinct and unpleasant odor that should never be ignored. It often indicates a crack or break in the line, which allows gases to escape where they shouldn’t.
- The smell often resembles rotten eggs or sulfur
- May appear stronger near drains, basements, or around the yard
- Even small cracks can let out strong odors
A professional inspection can confirm whether these smells are coming from a compromised sewer line that needs immediate attention.
2. Multiple Drains Are Slow or Backing Up
One slow drain could be a localized clog. But if several drains across your home—like the toilet, bathtub, and kitchen sink—start acting up at the same time, it often means there’s a problem deep in your main sewer line.
Signs of a sewer line issue:
- Toilets bubbling when you run the sink
- Water backing up into the tub when using the washer
- Gurgling sounds from multiple drains
If these symptoms occur regularly, it’s time to consider sewer line repair before the problem spreads.
3. Unusual Patches of Green or Soggy Spots in the Yard
Your yard can tell you a lot. If you notice bright green patches of grass or soggy, sunken areas even when it hasn’t rained, you might have an underground leak.
Here’s what to watch for:
- Overly lush spots in the lawn
- Areas of pooling water
- Mushy ground despite dry weather
These signs point to wastewater leaking from a damaged line, often requiring trench or no-dig sewer repair.
4. Sudden Increase in Water Bills
While high water bills can result from leaking faucets or running toilets, a sudden and unexplainable spike may indicate a hidden sewer leak. These leaks often go unnoticed until they affect your wallet.
Don’t dismiss a bill that seems out of sync with your water usage. It could be a sign your sewer system is under strain.
5. Foundation Cracks or Sinkholes
One of the more severe consequences of a failing sewer line is damage to your home’s foundation. When a sewer line leaks underground for an extended period, it can erode the soil and lead to structural damage.
Look out for:
- New or growing cracks in walls or floors
- Uneven flooring or shifting foundation
- Small sinkholes forming near your property
In cases like this, prompt sewer repair isn’t optional—it’s essential.
What Is Your Home Trying to Tell You?
If you’re seeing one or more of these signs, your sewer system may already be compromised. Ignoring these symptoms could lead to massive repair bills, hazardous living conditions, and even irreversible property damage. That’s where Lords of Plumbing can step in.
We offer some of the most efficient trench sewer repair services in Los Angeles, with a focus on getting the job done right and with minimal disruption to your home and routine. Whether you need trenchless repairs or a full inspection, our team can assess your situation quickly and provide clear, honest solutions. We bring decades of experience and the right tools to handle anything from minor leaks to full sewer line repair.
If you’re noticing these issues in your home, don’t wait—contact Lords of Plumbing today. We’re here to help protect your property, your wallet, and your peace of mind.