Why Your Basement Drain Is the First Sign of Sewer Trouble

Basements are often the first to show symptoms of a main sewer line problem. That's because they are at the lowest point in the house, giving wastewater an easy place to escape when the main line is blocked.

One of the most overlooked signs your sewer line needs professional inspection is water backing up in unused or lower-level drains. If you're doing laundry and suddenly see water pooling in a basement drain, you may be facing a serious sewer issue.

Other Warning Signs Include:

• Toilets bubbling when using the sink
• Drains backing up during high water use (e.g., showers, laundry)
• Multiple slow drains throughout the house
• Unusual sewer smells coming from the basement

These symptoms often indicate the main line is clogged or damaged, not just a localized blockage.

Don’t Wait for the Flood

The earlier you catch these signs, the better:

• Keep an eye on drain behavior when using appliances
• Call for a camera inspection if any drain acts strangely
• Install a backflow valve to prevent sewage from returning indoors

If you've noticed any of these signs, it's time to contact a sewer line repair service. Hansen’s Plumbing provides expert solutions to prevent further damage and health hazards.