How to Tell If Your Sewer Line Is Collapsing

A collapsed sewer line isn’t just a plumbing issue — it’s a significant threat to your home’s safety, structure, and sanitation. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always happen suddenly. Many lines collapse slowly over time, creating problems that homeowners mistake for minor clogs or drainage issues.

At CPR—Complete Pipe Repair, we help homeowners throughout Troy, Dayton, and the Miami Valley catch sewer failures early and fix them without digging up the yard. Here are the most common warning signs that your sewer line may be failing.

1. Multiple Drains Are Slow or Backing Up

If more than one drain is moving slowly or experiencing frequent backups, the problem is likely in your main sewer line. A partial collapse restricts flow and causes wastewater to return to the lowest points of your home.

2. Gurgling Toilets and Bubbling Fixtures

Air trapped in your pipes due to a blockage or pipe failure often escapes through toilets or sink drains, creating bubbling or gurgling noises. This is a red flag that your sewer line isn’t venting properly.

3. Unexplained Odors

A break or collapse in the sewer line can allow gases to escape into your home or yard. If you’re smelling sewage — especially in the basement — it’s time for a video inspection.

4. Soggy Patches or Sinkholes in the Yard

If you notice unexplained wet spots in the yard or soft ground, especially near your sewer line, the pipe may be leaking underground. Left unchecked, this can create erosion, foundation issues, and sinkholes.

5. Mold or Water Damage Inside

A collapsed line can cause backups or leaks that lead to water damage, especially around floor drains or lower-level plumbing fixtures. If you notice damp drywall, warped baseboards, or moldy smells, don’t ignore it.

What Causes a Sewer Line to Collapse?

• Age: Many homes still have 50+ year-old clay or cast iron pipes
• Root intrusion: Roots crack and break lines over time
• Soil movement: Freeze-thaw cycles and shifting ground
• Poor installation or outdated materials

The Good News? We Can Fix It Without Excavation

At CPR, we specialize in trenchless sewer repair and CIPP lining, which means:

• No tearing up your lawn or driveway
• No disruption to your landscaping or hardscaping
• Fast, clean, permanent solutions

We’ve helped Dayton, Vandalia, Troy, and beyond residents solve sewer issues without mess.

Schedule an Inspection Today

Do you think your line might be collapsing? The sooner you act, the less damage (and cost) you’ll face. Contact CPR or call (937) 703-1811 to book a no-dig inspection anywhere in the Miami Valley.