Detecting a broken underground drain pipe can be challenging since the issue is not visible. However, there are several signs and methods you can use to identify if a drain pipe is broken underground:

• Pooling Water: If you notice water pooling in a specific area of your yard or property, especially when it hasn’t rained recently, it could indicate a broken underground drain pipe that is leaking water.
• Soggy or Sunken Spots: Areas of your yard that are consistently soggy, waterlogged, or sunken could be a sign of a leaking drain pipe beneath the surface.
• Unexplained Lush Grass: If certain parts of your lawn are significantly greener or lusher than the rest, it could indicate that the grass is receiving excess water from a broken drain pipe.
• Foul Odors: If you detect persistent foul odors in your yard, it might be due to sewage or wastewater leaking from a broken underground drain pipe.
• Slow Drainage: If sinks, showers, or toilets inside your home are experiencing slow drainage or backups, it could indicate a blockage or breakage in the underground drain pipe that is affecting proper flow.
• Gurgling Noises: Unusual gurgling or bubbling sounds coming from drains or toilets could indicate air trapped in the system due to a broken drain pipe.
• Sewage Backups: If sewage backs up into your home’s fixtures, it could be a sign that a broken underground drain pipe is causing blockages or preventing proper wastewater flow.
• Cracks or Sinkholes: If you notice cracks in your driveway, patio, or walkways, or if there are sudden sinkholes forming, it could be due to soil erosion caused by a broken drain pipe.
• Visual Inspection: If you can access the area where you suspect the pipe is broken, you might see visible signs of damage, such as dislodged or misaligned pipes, visible cracks, or soil that has been washed away.
• Professional Inspection: To accurately determine if a drain pipe is broken underground, it’s advisable to consult a licensed plumber or drain specialist. They can use specialized tools like cameras and other diagnostic methods to assess the condition of the drain pipes.

If you suspect an underground drain pipe is broken, call our sewer experts at (201) 581-3740 or fill out our contact form.