Roots after remodel

Quick Answer:

If new slow drains appear during your final walkthrough after a remodel, don’t panic. Start by reviewing the remodel plans and any as-built photos to locate where the sewer lateral or branch was moved. Check how the trench was backfilled and graded — disturbed soil or exposed joints can let roots in. Have a plumber run a targeted sewer camera through the remodeled section to look for root entry at new joints or bends, and collect contractor documentation so you can pursue responsibility if the problem lines up with the new work.

Why This Happens

Moving a sewer lateral or adding a bend creates new joints and disturbed soil. Roots are attracted to small gaps, moisture and oxygen introduced by fresh backfill or changed grading. If the trench was not compacted properly or the pipe sits shallower after the work, bell-and-spigot joints or glued connections can be exposed or stressed. That gives roots an easy entry point and can cause slow drains soon after the remodel.

Step-by-Step What to Do

1. Gather plans, permits and as-built photos

• Find the remodeling plans, permit documents and any photos taken during the work. These show exactly where the lateral was rerouted, new bends or fittings, and the depth of the trench.
• Pinpoint the remodeled section so you know where to focus inspections and the camera run.

2. Inspect grading and soil compaction

• Walk the slope and the trench line. Look for low spots, exposed pipe bells, depressions, or areas where backfill looks loose.
• Verify whether new soil compaction or grading exposed joints that roots can exploit. Poor compaction or altered water flow will attract roots.

3. Run a targeted sewer camera

• Hire a licensed plumber to run a camera specifically through the remodeled section. Ask them to start upstream and run through each new joint, bend and connection.
• Look for root intrusion at the exact new joints or bends, hairline cracks, offsets, or crushed sections caused during backfill.

4. Document findings and notify the contractor

• Save camera video, photos, inspection reports, invoices and the original plans. This documentation shows timing and location if roots invaded near new work.
• Provide contractor documentation to pursue responsibility under the contract or warranty if the camera shows roots entering at the remodeled joints.

5. Discuss repair options (after inspection)

• If roots are present, a professional can recommend mechanical root cutting, spot repairs, lining, or partial replacement depending on damage.
• Ask about long-term solutions and whether the contractor will correct grading, compaction or landscaping practices that encouraged roots.

What Not to Do

• Avoid blaming only the original line without inspection — the timing and location matter.
• Do not backfill, replant or place new landscaping over the remodeled trench without professional advice; that can encourage root intrusion and hide problems.
• Do not wait to call a professional if symptoms start immediately after the remodel — early inspection can preserve evidence and contractor responsibility.

When to Call a Professional

• Call a licensed plumber if slow drains began right after the remodel, if multiple fixtures are slow, if you smell sewage, or if ground is wet above the new trench.
• Request a targeted video inspection for the remodeled run. This situation is similar to known post-work issues like **roots after plumbing repair** and should be documented promptly.
• If the camera shows root intrusion near the new work, contact the contractor with your documentation to discuss repairs or warranty coverage.

Safety Notes

• Call your utility locate service before any digging or probing to avoid hitting gas, power or other buried lines.
• Avoid direct contact with sewage. Use gloves and eye protection if you inspect outside areas, and wash hands thoroughly.
• Don’t use strong chemical drain openers until a camera inspection confirms there isn’t structural damage — chemicals can hide evidence or cause harm.
• Leave trench repair, pipe exposure, and major excavation to professionals to prevent collapse or injury.

Common Homeowner Questions

• Q: Can roots invade brand-new pipe immediately after a remodel?
  A: Yes—if joints were exposed, the pipe sits shallow, or grading changed water flow, roots can enter quickly.
• Q: Will the contractor usually pay for repairs?
  A: If documentation shows roots entered at or because of the new work, the contractor may be responsible under contract or warranty; keep all evidence.
• Q: How long does a camera inspection take and is it necessary?
  A: A targeted camera run of the remodeled section usually takes under an hour and is the fastest way to identify root entry points and guide repairs.

More in this topic

For more related fixes and similar symptoms, see Tree Root Intrusion Patterns.