Signs You Have a Main Sewer Clog

A branch clog affects one fixture. A main sewer clog affects the whole house. Knowing which one you have decides who fixes it.

Common causes

• Blockage in the lateral to the municipal sewer
• Roots inside the main line
• Collapsed section of the sewer lateral
• Grease and paper buildup at a joint

Step-by-step

1. 01Check if multiple fixtures back up when one is used
2. 02Watch the basement floor drain — first to overflow on a main clog
3. 03Test tub, toilet, and sink at the same time
4. 04Camera-scope through the main cleanout

When to call Northbridge

• Sewage in the tub or floor drain
• Multiple fixtures backing up at once
• Toilets gurgle when the tub drains
• Recurring main clogs — needs a camera scope