Quick Answer:
New pooling around yard drains after a storm often means water is finding a new path into the underground drain line. That path can be a clogged surface drain, broken pipe, or roots that have followed water into small cracks. Do a few simple checks first: clear visible debris, run a strong hose to test flow, and inspect the sewer cleanout. Mark wet spots so a technician can see likely root paths.
Why This Happens
Trees and shrubs seek water. After heavy storms, the soil is saturated and roots grow toward the extra moisture. If a pipe already has a small crack or joint gap, roots can enter, fasten to the pipe, and make a blockage that only shows up when the ground is wet. Surface pooling near yard drains can also mean the underground line is partially blocked or the pipe is broken and not draining as it should. If the issue appears only when the ground is saturated, that timing points to infiltration rather than a permanently collapsed line.
If this becomes a seasonal pattern, consider reading about roots worsen every spring for planning long-term fixes.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1) Inspect yard drains and gutters for debris
- Remove leaves, sticks, and visible buildup from gutters, grates, and drain covers so surface water can run freely.
- Check that drain grates are seated properly and not blocked by soil or mulch.
2) Run a heavy hose to test the drain
- With the drain clear, run a strong stream of water into the yard drain long enough to simulate the storm flow.
- Watch whether the water disappears into the drain, pools at the grate, or backs up toward the house. Backing up suggests a deeper blockage or a downstream problem.
3) Check the sewer cleanout after rain
- Locate the external sewer cleanout (a capped pipe near the house). After a storm, look for increased flow, water coming out around the cap, or roots pushed into the opening.
- Do not stick your face over an open cleanout. Wear gloves and eye protection if you remove a cap, and tighten it back afterward.
4) Note timing and mark wet areas
- Keep track of whether pooling and backups happen only during or shortly after storms. That pattern helps pinpoint infiltration points where roots follow wet paths.
- Mark wet or soft spots with flags, stakes, or bright tape so a technician can quickly see where water is tracking and where roots are most likely to have followed it.
- Take photos or short videos showing water behavior and any visible root or cleanout evidence—these help the plumber diagnose the issue faster.
What Not to Do
- Avoid assuming that surface gutter clogs are the only cause. Surface fixes can hide a deeper pipe problem.
- Do not excavate near tree roots yourself. Improper digs can damage roots and plumbing, and can actually make root entry worse.
- If backups happen after each heavy storm or if you notice sinking ground or small depressions, call a professional rather than attempting major repairs yourself.
When to Call a Professional
- Repeated backups or pooling after storms.
- Roots visible at the cleanout, or sewage coming from drains.
- New sinkholes, sudden soft spots, or large wet areas that don’t dry out.
- If you can’t locate the source after the hose test or if water is backing up into the house.
- A licensed plumber can run a camera down the line, remove roots safely, and recommend repair or pipe replacement as needed.
Safety Notes
- Avoid direct contact with sewage. Wear gloves and eye protection when inspecting cleanouts or handling debris.
- Keep children and pets away from wet, soft, or sunken spots—these can be unstable.
- Do not use DIY power tools inside a sewer cleanout or try to snake a pipe if you are unsure; improper use can push debris farther into the system or injure you.
- When a professional digs near roots, they will take steps to protect major trees and the repair area. Follow their guidance rather than attempting deep excavation yourself.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Q: Can roots cause pooling only during storms? A: Yes—roots often invade cracks that only allow water in when the ground is saturated, so pooling may appear only after heavy wet periods.
- Q: Will clearing the surface drain fix the problem? A: Clearing surface debris can help short-term, but if the root intrusion or pipe break is underground the pooling will return after storms.
- Q: How quickly should I call a plumber? A: Call if backups repeat after storms, if roots are visible at the cleanout, or if you notice sinkholes or sewage smells. These are signs a professional inspection is needed.
More in this topic
For more related fixes and similar symptoms, see Tree Root Intrusion Patterns.