First, a thourough inspection should be done in the crawlspace or basement of the dwelling to find any potential problems that need attention. If the structure is built on a concrete slab then you are at the mercy of only slab top inspections. If possible hire a licensed home inspector with a meter that will sniff out the gas (methane gas). The inspector should be able to meter the area or areas infected and give you a readinf on the intensity of the gas. At this point you know where to focus on the problem. Be sure to walk the perimeter of the dwelling as well. This could also lend clues.
The most common sewer gas smell problem is a floor drain trap, or other infrequently used trap that has dried out. Pouring a few liters of water in will resolve this.
Several potential causes could be contributing to the sewer smell outside your house, such as a blockage in the sewer line, a damaged sewer pipe, or a problem with the sewer vent. It is recommended to contact a professional plumber to inspect and address the issue promptly.
The sewer cleanout is typically located on the side of the house near the main sewer line.
3" house (building) drain allowable. 4" building sewer line needed for house from sewer main.
A little more detail about the sitsuation would help. New construction, remodel, sewer outlet in the house to street or sewer outlet in house to main going out of house.
A typical house usually has one or two sewer cleanouts.
If your house does not have a sewer cleanout, you should contact a professional plumber to assess the situation and determine the best course of action for maintaining and servicing your sewer system.
4" is the standard house sewer main
Yes, it is a problem if the sewer cleanout cap is missing because it can lead to debris entering the sewer system and causing blockages or contamination. It is important to replace the cap to prevent these issues.
It depends on what the problem is and where in the world you are.
Not normally even the connection to the public sewer is not covered
If it sticks straight up and has a 'screw on' cap (usually with a square on top of that), then that most likely is your sewer access point. If there is a problem with your sewer lines backed up, and the plumber cannot get it unclogged from the house side, then they will go to the access point to get to the clog. Plus, they can determine if the clog is between that point and the house, or between that point and your neighborhood sewer system (or your septic system, if you are on that).
A sewer smell coming from your sink could be caused by a dried-out P-trap, a clog in the drain, or a problem with the sewer vent.