We get it — nobody wants to replace their sewer line. Most homeowners hope a quick snake will fix the problem. But if you’ve been calling a plumber every few months for the same slow drains, it might be time to dig a little deeper — literally.

Here’s how to tell when your West Bloomfield home might need more than another quick fix.

1. The Problem Keeps Coming Back

If you’ve had your main line cleared more than twice in a year, that’s a red flag. Roots, cracks, and misaligned joints can block your line again and again.

2. Wet Spots in the Yard

Notice soft ground or a muddy strip that never dries, even in summer? That’s often wastewater leaking underground. Many West Bloomfield homes near Pine Lake and Middlebelt Road deal with this because of aging clay lines.

3. Sewage Smells Inside or Outside

A bad odor means something’s leaking — and leaks mean bacteria, rot, and possible foundation damage. It’s not something to “wait and see.”

4. Older Homes, Older Pipes

If your home was built before 1980, there’s a good chance your sewer line is clay or Orangeburg. Those materials simply don’t hold up forever. PVC replacements last decades longer and resist tree-root intrusion.

5. Water Backing Up When It Rains

If your drains slow down or backup after heavy rain, groundwater might be entering your sewer system through cracks. That’s one of the biggest indicators that replacement is on the horizon.

How Sewer23 Handles It

We use camera inspections to confirm exactly what’s happening before recommending anything. Sometimes it’s just a spot repair. Other times, a full replacement saves you money in the long run. We work cleanly, follow all local West Bloomfield codes, and handle everything — from excavation to restoration. If you’re tired of snaking the same drain over and over, call (248) 993-3423 and schedule a camera inspection. You’ll know exactly what’s going on before making a decision.