Raw Sewage
Raw Sewage | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Newport
When raw sewage starts bubbling up in a Newport basement or a foul odor lingers in the yard, the culprit is often hidden far beneath your feet: main line issues. Aging clay pipes, invasive tree roots, or a sudden collapse can block the city tie-in and send waste back into your home with little warning. HEP’s crew spots these problems fast with high-definition camera inspections and locators, giving you a crystal-clear look at what’s happening underground before any digging begins.
From hydro-jetting stubborn obstructions to trenchless pipe lining that saves your landscaping, we tackle every phase of repair in-house—and we do it 24/7 because sewage emergencies don’t keep office hours. If you suspect your property is suffering from main line issues, one call to HEP puts Newport’s most trusted plumbers on the way, ready to restore clean, worry-free flow in record time.
FAQs
What are the most common causes of raw sewage backing up into my Newport home?
The main culprits are tree-root intrusion, accumulated grease or wet wipes, collapsed or offset clay or cast-iron pipes, and heavy storm inflow that overwhelms aging infrastructure. In Newport’s older neighborhoods, many homes still have clay laterals that crack over time, allowing roots and groundwater to enter and block the line.
How can I tell whether the blockage is in my main sewer line or just a branch line inside the house?
Watch where the backup appears. If sewage rises in the lowest fixtures—basement floor drains, first-floor tubs, or toilets—while higher fixtures also drain slowly, the problem is almost always in the main line. A clog in a smaller branch usually affects only the fixtures tied to that branch. Gurgling sounds in multiple drains and sewage outside at the cleanout are further signs of a main-line issue.
What should I do immediately if raw sewage starts backing up?
1) Stop all water use to prevent more sewage from entering the system. 2) Shut off electricity to any affected basement areas if water levels are high. 3) Keep people and pets away from contaminated water. 4) Call a licensed Newport plumber with 24/7 emergency service—raw sewage contains pathogens and requires professional handling. 5) Notify your insurance provider; many policies cover sewage backups if addressed promptly.
How do you diagnose main-line problems—do you use camera inspections?
Yes. After clearing enough of the blockage to gain access, we feed a high-resolution sewer camera through your main line. The live video lets us locate cracks, root infiltrations, bellies, or collapsed sections within inches. We also use electronic locators above ground, so we know the exact depth and position of the defect before any digging or trenchless repair begins.
Are permits required in Newport to repair or replace a main sewer line, and will you handle them?
Any excavation or connection to Newport’s municipal sewer system requires a plumbing permit and, in some zones, a roadway opening permit. Our team pulls all necessary city permits, schedules inspections with the Building Official, and adheres to Rhode Island plumbing code and Newport’s specific backflow and bedding specifications. You won’t have to navigate the paperwork yourself.
How much does it cost to clear or replace a main sewer line in Newport?
A simple mechanical or hydro-jet clearing typically runs $250–$600, depending on access and pipe diameter. Video inspection adds about $200. If the pipe is broken and needs spot repair, expect $1,200–$3,500. Full replacement from house to street can range from $5,000 to $12,000 for open-cut excavation, while trenchless pipe-bursting or lining usually costs 20–30 % less and minimizes yard damage. We provide a fixed-price quote after inspection, and financing options are available.