Sewer Line Replacement Costs

On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services

Replacing a sewer line is a critical, though often expensive, home repair project. Here's what you need to know:

Average Costs

| Type of Repair/Replacement | Cost Range |
|--------------------------------------|--------------------------|
| National Average | $3,172 |
| Low End | $225 |
| High End | $9,575 |
| Per Linear Foot | $50–$250 (including labor & materials) |

Cost Breakdown

Pipe Material
| Material | Cost per Linear Foot |
|------------------|--------------------------|
| PVC | $4.50 |
| ABS | $6.00 |
| Copper | $85.00 |
| Cast Iron | $50.00 |
Replacement Method
| Method | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---------------------|--------------------------|
| Complete Replacement| $60–$250 |
| Trenchless (Pipe Bursting) | $60–$200 |
| Cured-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) | $90–$250 |
| Partial Replacement | $50.00 |
Labor Costs
Hourly Rate: $150–$500/hour.
Most projects average 9–33 linear feet.
Additional Costs
Video Inspection: $100–$500.
Tree Root Removal: $100–$600.
Ground Excavation: $30–$70 per cubic yard.
Permit Fees: $200 (varies by location).
Old Pipe Disposal: $250.

Factors Influencing Cost

Distance
Costs increase with longer connections to city hookups.
Average pipe length: 9–33 linear feet, costing $1,300–$4,900.
Pipe Location
Pipes under driveways or concrete require excavation, adding $300–$350 per linear foot.
Yard or Driveway Repairs
Landscaping: $4.50–$12 per square foot.
Concrete Driveway: $1–$25 per square foot.
Regional Pricing
Costs vary by location, with urban areas like Los Angeles averaging higher fees ($4,000) than smaller cities ($2,000).

Signs You Need Sewer Line Replacement

Water Bill Spikes: Check your water meter for unexplained increases.
Frequent Plumbing Clogs: Simultaneous clogs in toilets, sinks, and showers signal a mainline issue.
Gurgling Sounds: Persistent noises indicate blockages.
Yard Flooding: Sudden wet patches or depressions suggest leaks.
Bad Odors: Smell of sewage around your property.
Mold Growth: Indicates leaks and increased humidity.
Pest Infestations: Rats or insects may signal a compromised sewer line.

Pros & Cons of Replacement

Pros:
- Improved plumbing efficiency.
- Fewer clogs and better drainage.
- Increases home value.

Cons:
- High upfront cost (thousands of dollars).
- Disruption to landscaping and property.

Tips to Save on Sewer Line Costs

Choose Trenchless Replacement: Minimizes disruption and costs.
Repair First: Opt for partial replacements when possible.
Perform Annual Inspections: Prevent major repairs by catching issues early.
Request Multiple Estimates: Compare quotes from at least three professionals.
DIY Where Possible: Consider digging trenches yourself to save on labor.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

DIY: Digging costs $30 for a shovel, but risks damaging pipes.
Hiring a Pro: Labor ranges from $50–$150 per hour, but ensures safety and proper installation.

Pro Tip: Always call 811 to mark underground utility lines before digging.

Replacing a sewer line is a significant expense, but with proper planning and maintenance, you can minimize costs and avoid larger problems down the line!