Frequently Asked Questions
Find Answers to your Questions
Whether you’re dealing with a clogged drain, sewer line problem, emergency plumbing issue, or septic system maintenance, our team is here to provide dependable solutions and honest guidance. Proudly serving Bradford County, PA and Chemung County, NY, we offer professional residential and commercial plumbing services backed by fast response times and 24/7 emergency support. Browse our frequently asked questions below to learn more about our services, process, and what to expect. If you don’t see your question listed, feel free to contact us.
What should I do first when I have a sewer or drain emergency?
If you are dealing with a sewer or drain emergency, the first step is to stop using water in the home or building to help prevent additional backups or flooding. Avoid flushing toilets, running sinks, showers, dishwashers, or washing machines until the issue has been inspected. If sewage is backing up into the property, contact a professional sewer and drain specialist immediately to help reduce the risk of water damage, contamination, and costly repairs. Roto-Rooter Bradford & Chemung provides emergency sewer and drain services for both residential and commercial properties.
What is considered a plumbing emergency?
A plumbing emergency typically involves situations that could cause major water damage, health hazards, or complete loss of plumbing functionality. Common examples include sewer backups, burst pipes, overflowing toilets, severe leaks, flooding, frozen pipes, or situations where multiple drains stop working at once. Sewer-related problems should usually be addressed quickly because delays can allow contamination and property damage to worsen.
Do plumbers charge extra for nights, weekends, or holiday service calls?
Emergency plumbing service calls outside of normal business hours may involve additional fees depending on the timing, severity of the issue, and emergency response requirements. Many plumbing and drain companies offer 24/7 emergency availability because sewer backups and serious drain problems often cannot safely wait until regular business hours.
What causes sewer and drain clogs in older homes?
Older homes commonly experience sewer and drain clogs due to aging pipes, grease buildup, corrosion, shifting sewer lines, root intrusion, and decades of debris accumulation inside the plumbing system. Older piping materials can gradually deteriorate or narrow over time, making recurring drain problems more likely. Tree roots are also a very common cause of sewer line blockages in older residential neighborhoods.


