Sewer Backup & Main Line Clogs

When the main sewer line clogs, wastewater has nowhere to go and comes back up through the lowest drains in the house—usually a basement floor drain, shower or toilet. Raw sewage is a health hazard and needs to be stopped quickly.

Call: 1 (800) 555-0199

Warning signs

Sewage coming up from a floor drain, tub or shower
Several drains clogged at the same time
Gurgling toilets when you run a sink or washer
A sewage smell indoors or wet spots in the yard over the line

What to do right now

Stop using all water in the house—no flushing, laundry or dishwashers
Keep kids and pets away from the affected area
Wear gloves and boots if you must enter the area
Don't use chemical drain openers on a main-line clog

What the plumber will do

A plumber will clear the line with a drain machine or hydro-jetter, and may run a camera to find roots, collapsed pipe or a belly in the line.

What affects the cost

Clearing a clog through an accessible cleanout is the low end. Camera inspections, excavation, pipe lining or line replacement add significantly. Pricing is set by the independent provider—ask for the trip charge and an estimate before work begins.

Safety first

Smell gas? Leave the building now and call your gas utility or 911 from outside. Don't flip switches.
Water near outlets or the electrical panel? Stay out of the water and shut off power only if you can do it safely.
Know your main water shutoff before you need it—it stops most plumbing emergencies in seconds.

Need an emergency plumber?

Call free, 24 hours a day. We'll connect you with an available local provider.