Sewer Line Diagnostics

Purpose

Diagnostic procedures for main sewer line issues.

When to Use

• Multiple drains backing up, sewage in basement, gurgling fixtures, sewer odor throughout home

Symptoms of Main Line Issue

Multiple fixtures backing up at once

Water backing up in lowest fixture when others used

Gurgling in toilets when other drains running

Sewer odor throughout home (not localized)

Diagnostic Steps

Locate main cleanout (basement, crawlspace, or exterior)

Open carefully — sewage may be under pressure. Wear PPE

If line drains when cleanout opened, blockage is downstream

Camera inspect from cleanout to street/septic

Document: pipe material, distance to blockage, type of obstruction, pipe condition

Common Issues

Root intrusion (clay or cast iron pipes)

Belly or channel causing chronic buildup

Broken or collapsed section

Offset joints from settling

Grease/FOG combined with paper products

Coordinating for Excavation

If camera reveals excavation needed, call OUPS (811) before digging

Mark problem location from above ground using camera distance

Present repair options with camera footage as evidence

Important Notes

• Main sewer work is high-value — thorough diagnosis builds customer confidence
• Camera inspect BEFORE and AFTER any clearing
• If line connects to public sewer, coordinate with city for responsibility
• Document everything with video, screenshots, and ServiceTitan notes

Related SOPs

• Drain Diagnostics & Camera Inspection — drain-specific
• Sewer Line Repair & Replacement — repair procedures
• Excavation & Trenching Safety — excavation safety