Sewer Line Care Checklist
Watching your drains can help you notice a sewer problem before it becomes a backup. This checklist does not replace a camera inspection and does not involve opening a pressurized cleanout or digging.
Watch what goes down the drains
The city asks residents not to flush "flushable" wipes, grease or hair.
Pay attention to drain behavior
Note several slow drains at once, gurgling, odors, or water rising in a floor drain when another fixture drains.
Locate the sewer cleanout
Find the sewer cleanout cap, often near the foundation or in the yard, and keep it reachable. Do not remove the cap during a backup.
Check sump and downspouts
Sump pumps and downspouts should not drain into the sanitary sewer; the city works to remove these inflow sources.
Watch the sewer line route
Wet or sunken spots and unusually green strips over the sewer line are worth noting. If you notice a change or recurring symptom, ask about camera inspection.
Watch what goes down the drains
The city asks residents not to flush "flushable" wipes, grease or hair.
Pay attention to drain behavior
Note several slow drains at once, gurgling, odors, or water rising in a floor drain when another fixture drains.
Locate the sewer cleanout
Find the sewer cleanout cap, often near the foundation or in the yard, and keep it reachable. Do not remove the cap during a backup.
Check sump and downspouts
Sump pumps and downspouts should not drain into the sanitary sewer; the city works to remove these inflow sources.
Watch the sewer line route
Wet or sunken spots and unusually green strips over the sewer line are worth noting. If you notice a change or recurring symptom, ask about camera inspection.