Top Reasons Sewer Lines Fail (And How to Prevent It)
Sewer line failures are one of the most disruptive and expensive plumbing problems a property owner can face. When a sewer line fails, it can lead to sewage backups, foul odors, property damage, and even health hazards. The good news is that most sewer line issues don’t happen overnight — they develop slowly and can be prevented with proper care.
Here are the top reasons sewer lines fail and what you can do to prevent costly repairs.
Why Sewer Line Failures Are a Serious Issue
A damaged sewer line can cause:
Wastewater backups inside the property
Contamination of soil and groundwater
Foul odors both indoors and outdoors
Structural damage from erosion
Expensive repairs if left untreated
Because sewer systems are buried underground, many problems remain hidden until major symptoms appear. Understanding the causes helps property owners take action early.
1. Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line failure.
How Roots Enter Sewer Lines
Roots naturally grow toward water and can break through tiny cracks or loose joints in the sewer pipe. Once inside, they expand and block the line.
Why Older Pipes Are Vulnerable
Pipes made of clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg are especially susceptible to root intrusion.
How to Prevent It
Avoid planting large trees near sewer lines
Schedule routine sewer camera inspections
Remove roots professionally before they cause pipe collapse
2. Aging or Corroded Pipes
As sewer lines age, they begin to deteriorate.
Materials That Break Down Over Time
Clay pipes crack easily
Cast iron corrodes and flakes
Orangeburg pipes (fiber pipe) collapse under pressure
Signs of Aging Pipes
Frequent backups
Rust-colored water
Bad odors
Slow drains throughout the property
What to Do
Upgrading to PVC or other durable materials can prevent future failures.
3. Grease and Debris Buildup
Grease is one of the biggest enemies of sewer lines.
How Grease Causes Failure
It solidifies inside the line
Traps debris
Eventually blocks the entire pipe
Other Debris That Causes Problems
Food particles
Paper towels
Wipes (even “flushable” ones)
Hair and soap residue
Prevention
Never pour grease down the drain
Install strainers to catch debris
Use periodic professional cleaning
4. Soil Shifting and Ground Movement
Even small shifts in soil can damage underground pipes.
Causes of Soil Movement
Earthquakes
Heavy rainfall
Poor compaction during construction
Natural settling over time
What Happens to Sewer Lines
Pipes become misaligned
Joints separate
Pipe sections collapse
Prevention
Regular inspections
Proper installation depth
Using durable pipe materials
5. Poor Installation or Inferior Materials
Improper installation is a hidden cause of many sewer failures.
Common Installation Mistakes
Incorrect slope (too steep or too flat)
Weak pipe joints
Unsupported pipe sections
Using outdated or low-quality materials
Prevention
Always hire a licensed underground utility contractor for installations and repairs.
6. Heavy Vehicle or Equipment Pressure
Driving heavy machinery or parking vehicles over areas where sewer lines run can crush or crack pipes.
Where This Happens Most
Driveways
Parking areas
Construction sites
Prevention
Know where sewer lines are located
Avoid parking heavy vehicles above them
Use reinforced materials if the area must support weight
Warning Signs Your Sewer Line May Be Failing
Watch for these symptoms:
Slow drains throughout the property
Gurgling sounds in toilets or sinks
Persistent foul smells
Repeated sewage backups
Wet patches, sinkholes, or soft spots in the yard
If you notice more than one of these signs, a sewer inspection is recommended immediately.
How to Prevent Sewer Line Failure
Here’s how to prevent major sewer problems:
Schedule Routine Inspections
Camera inspections help catch issues early.
Avoid Flushing Harmful Materials
No wipes, feminine products, or paper towels.
Keep Trees Away From Sewer Lines
Roots cause major damage over time.
Upgrade Old Pipes
PVC and other modern materials last longer.
Get Professional Cleaning
Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they damage pipes.
Sewer Line Services by Bear Pipeline
Bear Pipeline provides professional sewer services across San Diego & Riverside County, including:
Sewer line inspections
Cleaning and blockage removal
Root intrusion solutions
Pipe repair and replacement
Emergency services
With licensed technicians and advanced equipment, Bear Pipeline ensures safe, long-lasting sewer solutions for residential and commercial properties.
Final Thoughts
Sewer line failures can escalate quickly, but most problems can be prevented with routine maintenance and early detection. Understanding the causes helps you protect your property and avoid expensive repairs.
If you suspect a sewer issue, Bear Pipeline is ready to inspect, diagnose, and repair your system professionally.
Sewer Repair Services & Storm Drain Solutions
We proudly serve San Diego County and Riverside County.
About the Author
Bear Pipeline is a licensed underground utility contractor serving San Diego & Riverside County. With years of experience in water line repair, sewer services, storm drain solutions, gas line work, and fireline installations, the team provides safe, reliable, and code-compliant utility services for residential and commercial properties.