Top 5 Signs Your Sewer Line Is Damaged – What Edmonton Homeowners Need to Know

If you're a homeowner in Edmonton, Alberta, a damaged sewer line isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a major issue that can lead to costly repairs, health hazards, and property damage if ignored. At Instarooter Sewer & Underground Services, we’ve seen firsthand how early detection can save thousands of dollars and prevent a full-blown plumbing emergency.

Below, we break down the top five warning signs that your sewer line may be damaged, and what you should do if you notice them.

1. Slow or Gurgling Drains

If your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets are slow to drain — especially across multiple fixtures — this could be an early sign of a sewer line blockage or collapse. Gurgling sounds coming from the drain indicate trapped air, which often means there’s a restriction in the sewer line.

Don’t ignore it. These symptoms often start mild but can escalate quickly into a full sewer backup.

Solution: Book a professional sewer camera inspection in Edmonton to find the cause before it worsens.

2. Frequent or Recurring Clogs

A single clogged toilet or drain might not seem serious. But if you’re dealing with recurring clogs, especially in lower-level bathrooms or floor drains, your main sewer line might be obstructed — often by tree roots, grease buildup, or pipe collapse.

Pro Tip: Chemical drain cleaners can worsen the problem by damaging your pipes.

Call Instarooter for professional drain cleaning in Edmonton using safe and effective methods like augers and enzyme solutions.

3. Unpleasant Sewage Odours

If you smell sewage or rotten eggs coming from your drains or basement, that’s a red flag. Damaged or cracked sewer lines can allow sewer gases to escape into your home. Not only is this a sanitation concern, but prolonged exposure can be dangerous.

Don’t wait — contact us immediately for a sewer inspection and a comprehensive solution.

4. Soggy or Sunken Patches in Your Yard

Notice any unusually green patches, pooling water, or sunken ground in your yard — especially near your sewer line path? This often means a leaking or broken sewer pipe underground.

In Edmonton’s freeze-thaw climate, this is a common problem due to shifting soil and aging infrastructure.

Our team at Instarooter can perform a no-dig sewer camera inspection to locate the break and offer fast, minimally invasive repairs.

5. Sewer Backups in the Basement

This is the most obvious and urgent sign that your sewer line is in trouble. If wastewater is backing up into your basement floor drain, it means your main line is blocked or failing.

This is especially common during Edmonton’s rainy seasons or spring melts — when the city sewer systems get overwhelmed.

Act fast: We offer 24/7 emergency sewer backup services to protect your home from serious water and health damage.

🛠 What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you suspect any of the signs above, don’t delay. A damaged sewer line can quickly turn into a costly emergency. At Instarooter, we specialize in:

  • ✅ Sewer Camera Inspections

  • ✅ Sewer Line Repair & Replacement

  • ✅ Root Removal from Sewer Pipes

  • ✅ Emergency Sewer Services Across Edmonton & Area

We serve Edmonton, St. Albert, Sherwood Park, Leduc, Spruce Grove, and nearby communities.

📞 Contact Instarooter Today for a Free Quote

Don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Our expert technicians are ready to provide fast, affordable, and reliable sewer solutions backed by years of local experience.

📍 Instarooter Inc.
17510 64a Street, Edmonton, AB T5Y 4A8
📞 Call us 24/7: (587) 988-7387
📧 Email: info@instarooter.com

Or fill out our contact form to request a free inspection today.