January 26, 2026

Warning Signs Of A Failing Sewer Line

Step-by-step plumbing guidance from East Mountain Plumber. Serving Edgewood, Moriarty, and the East Mountains.

Call (505) 596-3027 Request Service
Written by East Mountain Plumber • Serving Edgewood, NM, Moriarty, NM

Your sewer line carries all wastewater from your home to the municipal system or septic tank. When this underground pipe begins to fail the results can be messy expensive and dangerous. In Tijeras and the East Mountain area aging pipes tree roots and shifting soil make sewer line problems increasingly common.

Why early detection matters

Sewer line failures rarely happen suddenly. Most give warning signs weeks or months in advance. Catching problems early prevents sewage backups property contamination and major excavation costs.

Most common warning signs

  • Multiple drains slowing at the same time
  • Frequent toilet backups
  • Sewage odors inside or outside the home
  • Gurgling sounds from drains
  • Wet or sunken areas in the yard
  • Mold growth near floors or walls

Main causes of sewer line failure

Tree root intrusion

Roots seek moisture and enter through joints or cracks eventually blocking or breaking the pipe.

Pipe corrosion and aging

Older clay cast iron and Orangeburg pipes deteriorate over time and collapse.

Ground movement

Soil shifting from freezing and thawing places stress on buried pipes causing cracks and separations.

Improper installation

Poor slope bad joints and unsupported sections fail prematurely.

How plumbers diagnose sewer problems

Video camera inspections allow plumbers to see the inside of the pipe locate blockages identify cracks and measure pipe condition accurately. This eliminates guesswork and prevents unnecessary digging.

Repair options available

Spot repairs

Small damaged sections can often be replaced through targeted excavation.

Trenchless lining

A resin liner creates a new pipe inside the old one without digging the entire yard.

Pipe bursting replacement

A new pipe is pulled through the old line breaking it apart underground.

Health risks of sewer leaks

Sewage contains harmful bacteria viruses and gases. Exposure can cause respiratory illness skin infections and long term health issues. Sewer gas buildup can also create explosion risks in enclosed spaces.

When to call for sewer line repair in Tijeras

If you experience repeated backups odors or slow drains throughout the home call immediately. Sewer line problems never resolve on their own and only worsen over time.

For Tijeras homeowners we provide camera inspections accurate diagnosis and modern repair solutions to restore safe reliable drainage.

Need hands-on help?

If you’re dealing with an active leak, sewage backup, no water, or anything that could cause damage, call now. We’ll recommend the fastest realistic next step.