A sewer smell indoors isn't just unpleasant; it may point to a network problem. The good news is that some causes are simple and you can check them yourself before requesting an inspection.
Common causes
Possible causes:
- A dry trap in an unused floor drain
- A damaged toilet seal
- A blockage or slow drain line
- A venting problem in the sewer network
- A leaking drain pipe inside a wall or floor
Simple first steps
Pour water into unused floor drains to refill the trap and see if the smell goes. Note which room it's strongest in and when it appears; this helps the technician.
When to request an inspection
If the smell persists after refilling traps, or comes with slow drainage or damp in a wall or floor, it's best to have the network checked to find the cause.
This is general information, not a diagnosis of your home. To identify the cause, contact us to arrange an assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Does a sewer smell always mean a blockage?
No, it's often a dry trap, a damaged toilet seal or a venting problem.