A sewer line problem is not always obvious until the warning signs become hard to ignore. Slow drains, recurring clogs, unpleasant odors, or backups can all point to issues deeper in the system. A sewer inspection helps identify what is happening below the surface so homeowners can make more informed decisions before a smaller issue becomes a more expensive one.

Understanding the kinds of problems often found during a sewer inspection can help you know when it may be time to schedule one.

Blockages and buildup

One of the most common things found during a sewer inspection is blockage. Grease, debris, paper buildup, and other materials can restrict flow over time and increase the risk of drainage problems or backups.

Even if water is still moving, a partial blockage can cause drains to slow down and create recurring issues throughout the home. That is one reason professional evaluation matters when clogs keep coming back.

Cracks or broken pipe sections

Sewer lines can develop cracks, fractures, or broken sections as they age. Shifting soil, ground movement, wear, and past damage can all contribute to pipe deterioration. These issues may allow waste or water to move where it should not, and they can interfere with proper system performance.

A sewer inspection can help reveal whether the line is structurally sound or whether repairs are needed.

Corrosion or aging pipe wear

Older sewer lines may show signs of corrosion, scale, or general wear. As materials deteriorate, the line may become more vulnerable to blockage, leaks, or collapse. Aging infrastructure is not always obvious from inside the home, which is why an inspection can be helpful when plumbing issues seem repetitive or hard to explain.

Bellies or sagging sections

A sewer line should maintain proper flow, but sometimes parts of the line sink or sag. These low spots, sometimes called bellies, can allow waste and water to collect rather than move cleanly through the system. Over time, that can lead to repeated clogs, slow drains, and performance problems.

This type of issue is not always visible without an inspection, but it can have a major effect on drainage.

Root intrusion

Trees and landscaping can affect underground plumbing lines. Root intrusion happens when roots find their way into small openings or weak spots in the sewer line. Once roots enter, they can continue growing and create more serious restrictions or damage.

Homeowners may first notice the problem as recurring drain issues or backup symptoms. An inspection can help confirm whether root intrusion is present and how serious it has become.

Misaligned or separated joints

Sewer lines made of multiple connected sections can develop problems at the joints. Misalignment, separation, or loose connections can interfere with flow and create opportunities for leaks or intrusion. This is especially important in older systems or in areas where ground conditions have shifted over time.

Why early inspection matters

A sewer line issue that goes undiagnosed can continue getting worse. What starts as a drainage inconvenience may eventually lead to backups, property disruption, or larger repair needs. A professional sewer inspection helps identify the source of the problem more accurately, which can lead to a more effective solution.

Get answers before the problem grows

Sewer inspections give homeowners a clearer picture of what is happening underground. Whether the issue is blockage, root intrusion, pipe wear, or structural damage, early detection can help you take the right next step with more confidence.

Putman & Sons Plumbing helps homeowners evaluate sewer line concerns and address problems before they become larger disruptions.

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Why Sewer Inspections Matter

Your home’s sewer line is one of its most vital systems, but it’s often overlooked until a major backup occurs. Over time, pipes can deteriorate, shift, or become clogged by tree roots, leading to messy, expensive problems. A professional sewer line inspection is the best way to detect hidden issues before they turn into full-blown disasters.

Why Older Homes Are at Higher Risk

If your home is more than 30 years old, your sewer line may be made of outdated materials like clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg (a tar paper composite). These materials are prone to cracking, collapsing, and root intrusion.

Even small cracks or misalignments can let wastewater leak underground or allow roots to invade the line, restricting flow and eventually causing a backup.

The Power of a Camera Inspection

Modern plumbing technology makes inspections easier and more accurate than ever. Using a high-definition sewer camera, plumbers can feed a small waterproof camera through your main line to visually inspect every inch of the pipe.

This process identifies:

• Cracks, leaks, or corrosion
• Root intrusion
• Sagging or misaligned pipes
• Blockages or buildup
• Evidence of previous poor repairs

You’ll receive a detailed report and video footage so you can make informed repair decisions.

How Sewer Inspections Save You Money

A sewer inspection is a small investment compared to the potential cost of neglect. Repairs for collapsed lines or sewage backups can reach thousands of dollars and require extensive excavation. Early detection helps you plan for maintenance, avoid emergencies, and protect your property value.

Home buyers also benefit — sewer inspections are essential before purchasing an older property. Many homeowners have discovered costly sewer issues only after moving in.

Trust the Experts

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, our experienced team uses state-of-the-art video inspection tools to diagnose sewer line problems accurately and efficiently. Whether you suspect a blockage or just want peace of mind, we’ll ensure your home’s sewer system is running safely and smoothly.

248-652-0990 | 🌐 pnsplumbing.com

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• A Dry P-Trap – The curved length of pipe under the sink is called the p-trap. Water is supposed to remain in the curve to serve as a plug that stops gas from the sewer system from coming up. If it goes dry, it will not serve this function and allow odors into your home. Make sure to run water in sinks that don’t get much use to prevent this problem.
• Clogged Vent – Vents are necessary to release gas from the sewer system, usually extending to the roof. If a vent pipe becomes clogged, it could cause gasses to enter your home. Due to the position of the pipe, you may need to call a professional to clear a clogged vent.
• Blocked Drain – If you notice a rotten egg smell, it could be biofilm buildup from a drain clog. To remove the bacteria, you must clear the blockage. This may be done using a drain cleaner product or boiling water.
• Sewer Line Blockage – A blockage may also exist deeper in the system along the main sewer line. When this happens, you will likely have to call a plumber to snake the line.
• Mold Growth – Musty smells can be a sign of mold in the drain. Per the EPA, as long as the infected area is less than 10 square feet in size, you should be able to handle it yourself. Vinegar, boiling water, and baking soda can be used to remove mold.

If you have trouble identifying the cause of drain odors, a professional can help. Call Putman & Son’s Plumbing 24/7 plumbing services located in southeast Michigan to stop sewer smells and remove blockages.

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If you’re noticing problems with your sewer line, it is time to call a plumbing expert to see if you are in need of a sewer repair. When diagnosed promptly by plumbing professionals, your sewer can be salvaged without requiring a full replacement. If you’re noticing problems like slow drains, sewage backing up into your home or business, or totally blocked drains, you should call a plumbing company for an inspection right away to determine the problem.

A sewer inspection can determine if your sewer needs a repair

A camera sewer inspection is typically used to determine what exactly is wrong with your sewer line and what type of repair, if any, will be needed. In many cases, your sewer line will not have a major issue. In the majority of the cases we handle, it only requires a simple unclogging using hydro-jetting, a mechanized plumbing snake or another method in our cleaning arsenal. Sewer inspections are the only reliable way to determine what’s wrong with your sewer line.

Sewer repairs or replacements may be needed

If just one section of your sewer line is broken or compromised, you may be able to get by with a sectional sewer repair, otherwise there may be larger sections of your sewer line requiring a full replacement. For example, if your sewer line is made with an outdated material like clay it may need to be replaced. In any case, Putman & Son’s Plumbing licensed and insured Master Plumbers can assist you with your next sewer repair. Contact us today.

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Sewer problems occasionally pop up from time to time as the result of problems like tree root invasions, leaks or cracks in the sewer line, clogs due to waste and other problems. A sewer inspection can catch many of these complications and other potential problems with the sewer line. A proper sewer inspection can aid in dealing with potential hazards quickly and efficiently.

At Putman & Son’s Plumbing, we utilize the latest equipment in order to inspect sewer lines quickly. Unlike dated methods, our sewer camera provides us with the exact detail needed to investigate lines for problems. Using a sewer camera, we inspect the entirety of the sewer system to find any potential problems with it. Any issues like leaks, tree root invasions, potential clogs, or anything else that could compromise the integrity of the sewer system can be dealt with and spotted quickly.

If there are sewer problems, we can quickly diagnose and fix the issue. Common examples of problems include: slow drains, backed up drains, or foul odors coming from drains. Any of these issues can be fully diagnosed with a sewer inspection, but it’s crucial to schedule one to avoid any damage to the sewer line. Call Putman & Son’s today at (248)-652-0990 to learn more.

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