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Thankfully, it’s pretty rare to find a rat in your toilet. It’s more likely in larger cities with big sewer systems that can be feeding grounds for rats, but even then, you still shouldn’t fret. 

“I wouldn’t worry too much about rats coming up through the sewers,” Bradshaw says. “I’d say only one out of a thousand rodent customers we get actually have this problem. And of the 20 or some customers that have had this happen, they’ve all only had just one rat come up this way.”

Bleach isn’t likely to help unclog a sewer line. Bleach isn’t useful in this situation because it won’t dissolve the grime and debris in the clog. Instead, you want to use ingredients that will have a chemical reaction to clear out the buildup, like vinegar or salt and baking soda.

It's advisable to have your sewer line inspected every three to five years to ensure its proper functioning and detect any potential issues early on. However, the frequency of inspections can vary based on factors such as the age of your sewer system, the type of pipes used, and your property's location. If you notice any warning signs like slow drains, foul odors, or sewage backups, it's essential to schedule an inspection promptly, regardless of the regular maintenance schedule. 

The cost to unclog a drain varies based on the location and severity of the clog. For simple clogs within your home, such as in a sink, toilet, or shower, hiring a plumber typically costs between $110 and $350, with an average of around $200. Snaking a toilet or sink usually costs between $110 and $275, while a bathtub or shower clog costs about $225.

For a more serious clog in the main sewer line, the cost is higher. Clearing a main line clog generally costs between $200 and $600, with an average of about $380. However, prices can range from as low as $100 for snaking a minor clog to over $1,600, particularly if advanced methods like video inspection and hydrojetting are needed for a large or hard-to-reach blockage. Some severe main line clogs can cost upwards of $1,000 to clear depending on factors like the cause of the clog, its distance from an accessible cleanout, and whether the pipe is located beneath an occupied space (e.g., in an apartment building). You may be able to save money on minor clogs by using a drain snake or bladder yourself.