Who to call for sewer gas smell?

Author: Jazmyn Nitzsche  |  Last update: Tuesday, December 2, 2025

It may be time to get help from someone who can inspect for possible sources, a plumber or contractor.

How do I find the source of sewer gas smell?

Where is the odor coming from? Check your home's drains, toilets, and plumbing fixtures for any signs of leaks or damage. Look for cracks, loose connections, or broken seals allowing sewer gas to escape. Additionally, inspect your sewer vents on the roof or outside your home for any obstruction or damage.

Should I call the fire department if I smell sewer gas?

If the smell is pronounced, call the emergency number. They will get your information and alert the necessary responding agencies. If the smell is indoors, open some doors and windows to ventilate the space, evacuate the building and then call 911 (or 999).

Can a plumber get rid of sewer smell?

A certified plumber will be able to address these very common lingering issues: sewer gas smell in bathroom. toilet smells like sewer. sewer smell in basement.

Is it safe to stay in a house with sewer gas?

Answer: Only under extremely unusual circumstances. Although hydrogen sulfide is a toxic gas, it will not harm people at the concentrations that exist in a house with sewer gas odor problems. Studies have shown that hydrogen sulfide has a depressant effect on the central nervous system in concentrations above 150 ppm.

What to Do If You Smell Sewer Gas

How to detect sewer gas leak in home?

Detecting Leaks

The best way to determine the source of the leak is to perform a smoke test. This is done with equipment designed specifically for performing this test and uses inert smoke that is induced into the drain and vent system through a vent or a sewer cleanout.

Is breathing sewer gas harmful?

In extremely high concentrations, hydrogen sulfide can cause loss of consciousness and death. Suffocation: High concentrations of methane in enclosed areas decrease the amount of oxygen in the air and can cause suffocation. Symptoms of a lack of oxygen include: Dizziness.

Why do I keep smelling sewer gas in my house?

There are many things that can make your house smell like sewage. But the main source, outside of something major like a gas leak, is the plumbing fixtures inside your home. Another cause could be a septic blockage or even a frozen septic tank.

How long does it take for sewer gas smell to go away?

If the sewer gas odor was caused by a dry P-trap, the smell should dissipate almost immediately. If you have any plumbing fixtures you rarely use, you can also easily prevent them from smelling like sewer gas by making sure to put some water down the drain every week or two.

Is there a detector for sewer gas?

Sewer Gas Leak Detector by Forensics | 0-10,000ppm & 1ppm Resolution | Water, Dust & Explosion Proof | Li-Ion Battery | Natural Gas, Methane, Ammonia, Hydrogen Sulfide.

Where is the sewer vent located?

But there's another part of your plumbing system that can become blocked: your sewer vents. Located on the roof, these vent pipes allow gases to escape from your sewer system. They regulate the air pressure in your system, allowing waste to flow freely.

Can sewer gas come up through the toilet?

Yes, sewer gas can come up through the toilet if there is a problem with the plumbing system.

Is it safe to stay in a house with sewage backup?

Sewage backup is a serious issue that requires immediate attention and professional intervention. Due to the health hazards associated with sewage contamination, it is not safe to stay in a house with sewage backup.

How do I report a gas smell in my house?

If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999 or via textphone (minicom) on 0800 371 787.

What happens if you smell sewage for too long?

The Dangers of Hydrogen Sulfide, AKA “Sewer Gas”

A naturally occurring gas, hydrogen sulfide, or “H2S,” is toxic at high concentrations. Prolonged or acute exposure to the gas can cause eye irritation, headache, nausea fatigue, and – in extreme cases – death. Smell Sewer Gas in your building?

What are the symptoms of sewage sickness?

Germs and parasites may cause diarrhea, fever, cramps, nausea, vomiting, headache, weakness, or loss of appetite.

How do you recover from exposure to sewer gas?

Treat symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness with over-the-counter medications recommended by healthcare professionals. Rest in a well-ventilated area and stay hydrated to aid the body in eliminating toxins. Use a cool compress or cold pack to alleviate discomfort associated with headaches or nausea.

How long is sewage toxic?

In an untreated situation, sewage contamination can persist for weeks or even months, posing a health risk to your family. Sewage contains harmful bacteria, viruses, and parasites that can cause a variety of illnesses, including: Gastrointestinal issues (diarrhea, vomiting)

How to tell if you have sewer gas in your house?

If you notice a strong rotten egg smell in house, it's most likely sewer gas. This gas is usually first detected in the basement. It's often near water and utility lines and sometimes in the bathroom. Sewer gas consists of ammonia, methane, carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulfide, and sulfur dioxide.

What to do if you get sewage in your mouth at home?

Rinse your mouth out and clean your teeth. Rinse with a good mouthwash and also make sure you drink 8 glasses or fluid - preferably water. If you begin to feel sick or not well in any way at all, or develop a fever get yourself to an ER and explain what happened.

Who to call for sewer smell in house?

Causes of Sewer Gas Smell

Sewer gas smells could also be coming from your pipes if they weren't installed properly or are damaged. A local plumbing professional can assess the problem and provide solutions, but here are some more common causes of septic odors in your home: Ice buildup on plumbing pipes.

Does sewer gas smell come and go?

Due to the frequent movement of water and waste through your plumbing system, and the varying use of different drains throughout the day, some issues can fluctuate. This means that you may only notice the symptoms of a problem, like a sewage smell, at certain times of the day or in response to certain action.

Will a gas detector pick up sewer gas?

Yes, Lowe's sells gas leak detection solution and a digital multimeter with the capabilities to detect a number of combustible gases that are found in sewer gas.

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