We have a couple holes in our basement floor that I assume drain to the sewer, but they're not covered. A guy installing our water heater recommended covering them so we don't get sewer gas or something. We stuffed plastic bags partially down them for now, but wondering what a more long term solution would be. Is it acceptable to fill them with concrete? Are they there from a heater or something from a long time ago or do they stool serve a purpose? (The house was constructed in 1920.)
We want to at least level the floor, but do we need to leave this open?
We're in northern Minnesota if that matters.
Best Answer
To be on the safe side:
Contact a local plumber and request that he scope the drains.
Plumbers equipped with a snake camera can inspect the drains and tell you if there is any damage or blockage. I would highly recommend you go this route especially if you plan on finishing the basement. Do not put a floor over these holes until you know for sure what they are.
If you want to try and DIY, call a local hardware store that rents out these drain cameras. The draw back is that since you do not have the experience, if you find something questionable you'll need to contact a plumber anyway.
If you are really set on finishing the floors and are going to do it despite recommendations here be sure to leave some sort of access door / trap door in the event of flooding.
Good luck.