Your sewer lateral carries everything from your home to the municipal sewer. In Markham's older neighbourhoods, many laterals are clay or cast iron, and decades of tree roots, ground movement and corrosion take their toll. Newer subdivisions have plastic lines, but settling soil and construction damage can still cause problems.
We repair sewer lines based on camera evidence, so you know what's wrong and where before we dig or recommend any work.
Sewer Repair Around Markham
Unionville, Markham Village and Thornhill have many mature trees, which are part of what makes these neighbourhoods so appealing. But tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture in sewer lines, and older clay pipes with loose joints give them an easy way in. Over time, roots can fill the pipe and cause repeated backups.
In newer subdivisions, sewer problems are less common, but not unheard of. Soil settling after construction can create sags or offsets in the line, and some homes see damage from later landscaping or construction work.
A camera inspection is the best way to understand what's happening in your sewer line. It shows us where the problem is, how deep it is and what the pipe is made of, which helps us recommend the most practical repair.
If a repair involves digging, we'll plan it to minimize disruption to your yard, driveway and landscaping. Utility locates are always arranged before any excavation.
Some sewer issues sit near the property line, where the private lateral meets the municipal connection. The camera helps show which side of that line the problem is on.
After the repair, we run the camera again so you can see the result.
If you're buying an older home in Markham, a sewer camera inspection before closing can help you avoid surprises.
We also keep in mind that Markham winters limit when excavation is practical. Frozen ground makes digging slower, so if a repair can safely wait for spring, we'll say so and suggest maintenance cleaning in the meantime. If it can't wait, we'll plan the work to handle the conditions.
Signs You Need Sewer Repair
You may need sewer repair if you notice:
- Repeated main line backups. Frequent blockages usually point to a structural issue.
- Roots found during cleaning. Roots enter through cracks and joints, and they return after cleaning.
- Soggy patches in the yard. A leaking sewer can create wet spots or unusually green grass.
- Sewer odours outdoors or indoors. Cracked or broken lines can release gas.
- Camera shows damage. Cracks, offsets, sags or collapses show up clearly on a camera inspection.
How We Do It
- 1
Camera inspection
We inspect the line, record the footage and locate problem areas.
- 2
Discuss options
We explain the options, from spot repair to section replacement, with a clear price.
- 3
Permits and locates
Where excavation is needed, we arrange utility locates and any required permits.
- 4
Repair
Damaged sections are replaced with durable pipe and properly bedded.
- 5
Verify
We run the camera again to confirm the repair and restore the area.
Why Choose Markham Plumbing
Sewer work is a significant investment. We show you the camera footage and explain every option so you can make a confident decision without pressure.
- Footage you can see
- Targeted repairs
- Permits and locates handled
- Post-repair camera check
Sewer Repair FAQs
Who is responsible for the sewer line?
The portion on private property is generally the homeowner's responsibility. The City of Markham can confirm details for your address.
Can roots be removed permanently?
Cleaning removes roots, but they can return. Repairing the damaged pipe is the long-term fix.
Will you need to dig up my yard?
Some repairs require excavation. We keep it as small as possible and explain what's needed before starting.
How do I know if my sewer is clay or cast iron?
A camera inspection shows the pipe material and condition.