Broken Sewer Pipe: How to Spot It, Fix It, and Prevent Future Problems

Few issues are more disruptive to a property than a broken sewer pipe. Not only does it create unpleasant smells and potential flooding, but it can also cause long-term damage to your home or business premises if left untreated. Understanding the warning signs, repair options, and preventative steps can help you act quickly and avoid unnecessary costs.

We’ve supported countless clients across the UK with sewer pipe repair and maintenance. Here’s what you need to know.

Why a Broken Sewer Pipe Is a Serious Issue

Your sewer system is responsible for carrying wastewater away safely. When a pipe breaks, this system is compromised. The results can include:

• Health risks – Leaking sewage can contaminate soil and water, creating serious hygiene concerns.

• Property damage – Overflowing waste can damage floors, walls, and even foundations.

• Business disruption – For commercial or industrial sites, downtime caused by sewer issues can lead to compliance problems and lost revenue.

In short, a broken sewer pipe isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s an urgent problem that needs professional attention.

Common Signs of a Broken Sewer Pipe

The earlier you spot an issue, the easier it is to repair. Warning signs include:

• Persistent foul odours around drains, bathrooms, or outdoor areas.

• Slow or multiple blockages in sinks, toilets, and baths that don’t clear with standard methods.

• Gurgling noises from pipes when you flush or run taps.

• Wet patches in the garden, sometimes unusually green or lush, caused by sewage leaking underground.

• Increased pest activity, as rodents and insects are attracted to broken sewers.

If you’ve noticed more than one of these issues, it’s likely time to arrange a professional inspection.

What Causes a Sewer Pipe to Break?

Several factors can lead to damage:

• Tree roots – Roots often grow towards pipes in search of water, breaking through joints and causing cracks.

• Old pipe materials – Clay or cast iron pipes are still common in older UK properties and can deteriorate over decades.

• Ground movement – Shifts in soil, road traffic above, or nearby construction can stress underground pipes.

• Blockages and fatbergs – Build-ups of grease, wipes, and other non-flushables create pressure that weakens pipes over time.

Repair Options for a Broken Sewer Pipe

Modern technology means that repairing a broken sewer pipe doesn’t always involve digging up half your garden or driveway. Common solutions include:

• CCTV surveys – A camera is inserted into the pipe to identify the problem precisely.

• Pipe relining (CIPP) – A resin-soaked liner is inserted into the damaged pipe, inflated, and cured to create a new pipe inside the old one.

• Sectional point repair – For small, localised cracks, a patch liner can be applied directly to the affected area.

• Pipe replacement – In severe cases, excavation may be unavoidable, but this is generally a last resort.

Our experienced engineers prioritise trenchless methods wherever possible, minimising disruption for both homeowners and businesses.

Preventing Sewer Pipe Problems in the Future

While not every issue can be avoided, you can reduce the risk of another broken sewer pipe by:

• Arranging regular CCTV inspections to identify early signs of damage.

• Avoiding flushing items like wipes, fats, oils, and sanitary products.

• Keeping an eye on tree growth near underground sewer routes.

• Acting promptly if you notice slow drains or bad smells.

Prevention is always cheaper and easier than a major repair.

If you suspect an issue with your drains, our team offers expert sewer inspections, repairs, and preventative maintenance across the UK—helping protect both your property and the environment.