Broken Pipes and Drain Flies
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
The most common pest you see with a broken or leaking pipe is a drain fly. These tiny black insects thrive in moisture and organic waste. Once they find a wet, dirty surface, they start breeding fast. What begins as a small problem near your sink or shower can turn into a full infestation if the source stays wet.
Why drain flies appear
Drain flies feed on bacteria and sludge inside your plumbing. Hair, grease, and soap build up over time, creating a perfect layer for eggs to hatch. When a pipe cracks, water leaks into walls, floors, or soil. The constant moisture and decaying matter give the flies an ideal place to breed.
You might clean your drains, spray for flies, and think they’re gone. But if the leak remains, they come right back. That’s because the real breeding site is hidden behind the wall or under the floor.
How to treat drain flies
Start with a full clean.
Scrub the inside of each drain with a stiff brush.
Pour boiling water down drains daily for several days.
Use an enzyme cleaner to dissolve sludge and organic buildup.
Keep surfaces dry between uses.
If flies return after cleaning, the problem comes from a hidden leak or broken pipe.
Why broken pipes keep them around
A damaged pipe leaks water and waste into hidden areas. That wet mix never dries, and drain flies continue to breed. You kill adults, but eggs hatch a few days later, starting the cycle again. The infestation stops only when the leak is repaired and the breeding site dries out.
When to call a professional
Persistent drain flies mean the issue is deeper than the drain. A pest control technician can trace where they are breeding. A plumber can inspect with a camera to find cracks or leaks in the pipe. Working together, they remove the breeding source and stop new flies from appearing.
Why you shouldn’t wait
Drain flies multiply fast. Every egg case holds dozens of larvae, and a single leak can host thousands of them. The longer you wait, the more damage moisture causes to your home. What starts as a small leak can lead to mold, odors, and even structural damage.
TruPest Solutions can help
TruPest Solutions eliminates drain flies at the source. We treat drains, identify moisture issues, and work with trusted plumbers to stop leaks and dry the area completely. Once the breeding site is gone, the flies are gone too.
For drain fly control in Rialto and Fontana, call 951-334-5288 or visit
