"We called him and he came right over that evening, started the next morning. Was a big job but they completed, and cleaned up so you hardly knew they were there. Everyone working on this job was able to answer all my questions."
If the toilet is overflowing but there’s no clog, that’s a sign that the issue is deeper in the system, and plunging may not help. A blockage in your home’s plumbing, the plumbing vent, or even city sewer lines can cause toilets to overflow. The issue could also be the toilet itself if the filler float isn’t set to the correct height or if parts are damaged or worn out.
Even with a high-resolution camera, what you're looking at on the screen may not be recognizable to the untrained eye. Your plumber should be willing to walk you through the video and explain what they found. With high-res images, bright lighting, and self-leveling technology, you should get clear, steady views of the pipes that make up your plumbing system.
In the majority of cases, homeowners insurance will not cover a main sewer line root clog. The reason is that most insurance companies consider tree root damage to sewer lines as common wear and tear, which is also preventable. However, you may be able to buy optional add-on coverage, such as "service line coverage" or "sewer line endorsements," that would protect against root damage to your sewer line.
Your home has a few telltale signs of a sewer line problem. If you notice multiple plumbing fixtures (toilet, sink, or shower drains) appear to be clogged, call a plumber ASAP. Also, if water appears in the tub or shower when you flush the toilet, you likely have a sewer line issue. A sulfur (rotten eggs) smell and bubbling or gurgling noises at the drain also warrant a check. And keep your eyes peeled for changes to the yard, such as a new indentation or mysteriously soggy grass.
The type of clog in your sewer main determines the required cleaning method. Different types or methods of sewer main cleaning require various tools like chemicals, mechanical removal, or a combination of both.
Some of the most common types of sewer main line cleaning include:
A clogged main sewer line can lead to gas or wastewater leaks. Find out what main sewer line clog repair costs by type of service, clog severity, and more.
The best way to keep your sewer line running smoothly is with some regular maintenance. But don’t worry—it doesn’t take much effort. Read on to learn how.