Where the blockage usually is
Your home's sewer lateral runs from the house drains out to the public sewer main, usually under the front yard. In many older Fullerton homes that lateral is cast iron or clay. Roots, grease buildup, wipes and sagging sections can all block it. When the lateral clogs, every drain in the house is affected, and the lowest ones overflow first.
Less often, the public sewer main itself is blocked. A clue is when neighbors are having the same problem at the same time. In that case, contact the city about the sewer main. Responsibility for the lateral between your home and the main can vary, so check with the city if you are unsure who handles which part.
Making the house safe
Keep children and pets away
Sewage carries bacteria. Close doors to the affected bathroom and keep everyone out.
Protect your skin
Wear rubber gloves and boots for any contact. Wash hands thoroughly afterward.
Do not use chemical drain cleaners
They rarely clear a main-line blockage and they make the water hazardous for whoever opens the line.
Find the outdoor cleanout
Many homes have a capped pipe near the house or in the yard. A plumber will often use it to clear the line. Do not open it yourself if the line is full; sewage can spill out under pressure.
Document the damage
Photograph where sewage came up and how far it spread before cleaning.
Your line or the city's?
- IfOnly your house is affected and every drain is slowMost likely a blockage in your lateral. Call a licensed plumber to clear it.
- IfNeighbors report the same backup at the same timeThe public sewer main may be blocked. Contact the city about it.
- IfOnly one fixture backs up and others drain fineProbably a branch line clog, not the main. Still stop using that fixture.
- IfBackups keep returning every few monthsAsk for a camera inspection to see roots, offsets or a sag before the next clearing.
Cleanup basics after the line is cleared
Questions to ask after clearing
- What did you find in the line, and how far out was the blockage?
- Did you run a camera, and can I see the footage?
- Is the pipe cracked, offset, or full of roots?
- Is this cleared for now, or is a repair needed to stop it coming back?
Common questions
Is it safe to stay in the house?
Usually yes if the backup is contained and you avoid the affected area, but keep children and pets away and do not use any fixtures that drain.
Will a plunger fix a sewage backup?
Not if the main line is blocked. Plunging one drain pushes water up another. A main-line clog needs a cable machine or jetting from a cleanout.
Does homeowners insurance cover sewer backups?
Coverage varies a lot by policy and often requires a specific endorsement. Call your insurer and keep your documentation.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.