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Top 5 Towns in New Jersey With the Worst Sewer Line Problems
Top 5 Towns in New Jersey With the Worst Sewer Line Problems
New Jersey is home to some of the oldest neighborhoods and infrastructure in the country—and that includes the sewer systems. Many towns across the state suffer from aging sewer lines, root invasions, collapsed pipes, and poor drainage, leading to expensive repairs and health hazards.
If you're buying a home or already living in one of these areas, knowing which towns have a higher risk of sewer line problems can help you stay ahead of serious issues. Let’s explore the top 5 towns in New Jersey known for sewer line headaches—and what you can do about them.
1. Newark, NJ
As the largest city in New Jersey, Newark has one of the oldest sewer systems in the state. Much of the city still relies on combined sewer systems, which are highly susceptible to overflow during storms. Aging infrastructure and high population density make Newark a hotspot for sewer backups and pipe collapses.
Common issues in Newark:
- Combined sewer overflows (CSOs)
- Frequent backups and flooding during rain
- Broken and corroded clay pipes
If you’re in Newark, schedule a camera inspection now with NJ Sewer Inspection Newark.
2. Paterson, NJ
Paterson’s sewer system dates back over a century. Many homes still have their original pipes, which have deteriorated and are now prone to tree root intrusion and ground shifting. The city’s aging infrastructure has caused frequent complaints about slow drains and basement sewage backups.
What makes Paterson vulnerable:
- Old cast iron and clay sewer lines
- Heavily wooded neighborhoods with root damage
- Improper sewer slope leading to blockages
Read more about Paterson sewer inspections to stay protected.
3. Jersey City, NJ
With its rapid urban growth, Jersey City is seeing a rise in sewer line problems. Much like Newark, the city still uses outdated combined systems in many areas. This results in backups, sewer odors, and even street-level flooding during storms.
Top problems in Jersey City:
- Overflow during heavy rainfall
- Improper hookups in older homes
- Limited maintenance access in historic neighborhoods
If you live in Jersey City, learn more about the importance of routine sewer inspections here.
4. Orange, NJ
Orange and neighboring West Orange are known for sewer problems, particularly due to the high volume of mature trees and aging infrastructure. Many homeowners report slow drains and bad odors, often traced back to tree root intrusion or pipe misalignment.
Key sewer challenges in Orange:
- Severe tree root intrusion
- Old, corroded piping
- Inconsistent water pressure
Protect your home in West Orange, NJ with regular inspections.
5. Bloomfield, NJ
Last but not least, Bloomfield rounds out the top 5. As a suburban area with a high number of pre-1950s homes, the town has thousands of feet of aging sewer lines. Many of them have never been inspected or updated, leading to frequent clogs and backups.
Why Bloomfield made the list:
- Outdated clay and concrete sewer pipes
- Minimal maintenance history in older neighborhoods
- Increased home additions impacting sewer flow
Book a Bloomfield sewer inspection before issues arise.
What Causes These Sewer Line Issues?
The top causes of sewer line problems in these towns include:
- Tree root growth into cracked or unsealed pipes
- Soil shifting or settling, causing pipes to collapse
- Age and corrosion of old piping materials like cast iron and clay
- Grease and debris buildup over time
- Increased rain and stormwater overwhelming combined systems
Prevention is always better than cure. That’s why more and more homeowners are scheduling camera sewer inspections before the problems escalate.
How Often Should You Inspect?
If you live in any of these towns, we recommend a sewer inspection every 1–2 years. In fact, you can read our full guide here: How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Inspection in New Jersey?
Need Help in One of These Towns?
NJ Sewer Inspection serves all of Northern New Jersey, offering professional camera inspections, reports, and trenchless repair options. We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners avoid costly repairs through early detection.
â–¡ Call 973-798-9066 today to schedule an inspection in your area.
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Final Thoughts
Sewer line problems are more common than you might think—especially in certain New Jersey towns with older homes and outdated systems. Don’t wait for a backup or costly repair to take action. With proactive sewer inspections, you can catch problems early and save thousands down the line.
Trust NJ Sewer Inspection to protect your property and give you peace of mind. Contact us today and stay ahead of sewer issues in your town.
