What Does Sewer Line Replacement Cost? [2024 Data]

Sewer Line Replacement Cost Breakdown

Sewer line repair costs will vary based on materials, the extent of the damage, the distance to a local hookup, and any required yard work or excavation.

Pipe Material

The three most common pipes used for sewer lines today are PVC, ABS, and copper, each its own cost range and preferred use case scenario. In rarer cases, cast iron is used as a sewer pipe material. 

PVC

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a type of plastic that shines as a sewer pipe due to being lightweight, inexpensive, and easy to install. Purchasing 48 linear feet of PVC piping with a standard diameter of four inches costs $80 to $370. PVC is convenient but not quite as durable as copper or cast iron. 

ABS

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) is another synthetic plastic often used to manufacture sewer pipes. ABS is similar to PVC in that it is fairly budget-friendly and easy to install. Buying 48 linear feet of ABS piping with a standard diameter of four inches costs $130 to $450. ABS is more durable than PVC, though this durability is thanks to the chemical compound BPA (Bisphenol A), which some studies link to cancer. 

Copper 

Plastic pipes are designed to save money, but using real metals like copper really starts to expand the budget. Copper is extremely durable, especially when compared to plastic pipes, and is easier to replace than cast iron, though not as easy as PVC. Purchasing 48 linear feet of copper piping is costly, at $3,900 to $4,300. 

Cast Iron

This hearty metal offers the same durability and increased lifespan of copper, with a slight downtick in costs. Buying 48 linear feet of cast iron piping comes in at $1,100 to $3,600. 

Distance 

Depending on pipe materials, running a new sewer pipe costs $50 to $250 per linear foot, which includes materials and labor. Your sewer pipes run from the house to a street-adjacent city hookup. This distance varies depending on the design of your house and neighborhood. In other words, the further your house is from the hookup, the longer the sewer pipes and the higher the costs.

Of course, the entire length of the pipe may not require replacement, so discuss options with your pro. Most homeowners end up paying around $150 per linear foot. Since the average cost for replacing a sewer line is between $1,300 and $4,900, this means the average length of repairs is between nine and 33 linear feet.

Pipe Location 

Where the pipe starts in your home and the path it takes to the local hookup both impact the overall cost, as any hurdles increase labor costs and require more materials. For instance, accessing a pipe located underneath a driveway or behind a concrete wall requires professional excavation. Hiring a local ground excavator increases the overall cost here, coming in at $400 to $1,200 for 100 linear feet.

If repairs are conducted directly underneath or through a concrete slab, an excavator must break up the concrete, ballooning the cost to $300 to $350 per linear foot (only for the portion entangled with the concrete.)

Yard or Driveway Repair

If you need to repair your landscape or hardscape, anticipate spending somewhere between $1 to $25 per square foot, depending on the type of repair. Repairing small cracks in the driveway costs the least while replacing entire slabs of concrete costs the most.

Repairs that occur in your yard or below your driveway have the added cost of repairing your landscape. Here are some of the most common yard or driveway repair costs to factor into your budget:

• Landscaping cost: $4.50 to $12 per square foot

• Yard leveling cost: $1 to $2 per square foot

• Concrete driveway repair cost: $1 to $25 per square foot

• Asphalt driveway repair cost: $1 to $15 per square foot

• Deck repair cost: $30 to $60 per square foot

Inspection

Most sewer line projects require a video inspection, which costs anywhere from $100 to $500. Though you might be tempted to skip this step to save on the cost of your replacement, a video inspection is key to having an accurate diagnosis, replacement plan, and total price estimate.

Cause of Repair

From a partial sewer line replacement to a complete replacement and additional troubleshooting costs, expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $250 per linear foot to repair your sewer line. Sewer line damages can stem from all kinds of factors affecting the replacement cost. If you have a clog, tree roots, a collapsed pipe, or a combination of issues at play, anticipate spending between $80 and $1,000 to tackle the problem.

Replacement Method

Replacing a sewer line can vary by the method of replacement and the contractor performing the project, among other factors. A partial replacement will be the most affordable option, with complete replacement and replacing burst pipes ranging from $60 to $250 per linear foot.

Labor Installation

The cost to hire a plumber for your sewer line replacement is between $150 and $500 an hour, depending on where you live and the complexity of the replacement. After you vet local plumbers, it’s a good idea to ask for a quote to compare prices.

Trench vs. Trenchless 

Trenchless replacements cost anywhere from $60 to $250 per linear foot, including materials and labor. Trenchless replacements are the most basic and common replacement, and, as the name suggests, this type of sewer line replacement does not require digging a trench and disrupting your property. As such, it is reserved for relatively small lines of the damaged pipe. 

If you’ve got a bigger problem on hand, you may need to have a professional dig a trench around the faulty sewer line to replace it. A repair involving trenching costs an additional $4 to $12 per linear foot on top of the cost of the sewer line replacement. Excavation costs range from $30 to $70 per cubic foot.

Yard Repair

It takes a lot of digging and rooting around to successfully replace an entire length of sewer pipe. In other words, your yard is going to need some work once the job finishes. Most contractors include the basic cleanup in the overall estimate, but if a job goes beyond the basic, landscaping is required to get your yard looking as it did prior to the replacement job. Hiring a local landscaping pro for this type of job costs $100 to $350.

If your driveway suffered similar damage, repairing any issues costs $1 to $10 per square foot, depending on the required materials.  

Location

Where you reside can make all the difference in your total replacement cost. For example, if you live in Austin, Texas, you may spend around $2,000 on average, whereas in Los Angeles, California, residents may spend closer to $4,000 for the same project. Costs are likely to correspond to the cost of living, competitive labor rates, and material prices.

Cost to Repair a Sewer Line

Sewer lines fail for multiple reasons, each of which requires its own specific replacement procedure and cost. If a tree fell and disturbed your sewer line, for instance, it costs $100 to $600 to remove the roots on top of any associated pipe replacement fees.

Cracked Pipes

The average cost to replace cracked pipes is $600 to $1,050, depending on damage severity. Pricing for repairing a cracked sewer pipe is around $150 per linear foot, so the more extensive the crack, the higher the price. Cracked pipes often arise from frozen pipes. Knowing how to keep pipes from freezing can help prevent these expenses.

Collapsed Line

A fully collapsed sewer line is the most expensive issue to correct, costing $50 to $250 per linear foot to replace any pipes damaged by settling ground, nearby construction, or frequent overhead traffic. 

Traps

Just like toilets and sinks, sewer lines include a trap in the form of a U-shaped piece of pipe that keeps dangerous gasses out of the home. In many cases, these traps hold onto waste and contribute to damage throughout the rest of the system. Repairing a sewer trap as part of an overall pipe replacement project costs $1,500 to $3,000, as they are difficult to reach. 

Cured-in-Place Replacement 

This method involves pulling a resin-coated liner through a pipe and curing it to offer some serious reinforcement. This option is available to reinforce pre-existing pipes as a preventative measure or as a durability-enhancing add-on to brand-new sewer pipes. Installing cured-in-place pipes costs $80 to $250 per linear foot. 

Pipe Bursting

This is another trenchless method to replace pipes. The process involves a team of pros bursting any old brittle pipes as they lay down new pipes. Both steps are completed simultaneously to minimize issues. Pipe bursting costs $60 to $200 per linear foot. 

Cost to Repair Sewer Main Line

The sewer main line is the wastewater line from your house to the city connection. The cost of a sewer main averages $2,600. The opposite is a water main that brings fresh water to your home.

Cost to Remove Tree Roots in Sewer Line

If your camera diagnosis shows that tree roots are the problem, expect to pay $100 to $600 to remove tree roots from the sewer line. If the roots damage the pipe itself, though, the pipes will have to be repaired or replaced. You might be able to remove tree roots from the sewer line without digging a trench—at least temporarily.

Additional Costs to Consider

Photo: Piman Khrutmuang / Adobe Stock

Typically, a sewer line repair or replacement starts with a video inspection, where a camera is sent down the line to look for breaks or clogs. That service and many other factors will help give you an accurate sewer line cost.

Video Inspection

Before going ahead with the replacement job, a pro typically recommends a sewer camera inspection to help locate the source of the damage. These video inspections cost $100 to $500 and involve a technician affixing a camera to the end of a long hose and snaking it through the entire sewer line. This is considered the fastest and least invasive method to diagnose any outstanding sewer issue.

Ground Excavation

Some pipe replacement jobs, such as trenchless methods, do not require a large amount of ground excavation, but pros still need to strategically excavate at various locations to ensure a proper installation. Clearing the ground to expose the pipes costs $30 to $70 per cubic yard. Experienced pros either handle this part of the job themselves or outsource to an excavator. Talk to your technician to discuss options. 

Tree Root Removal

Tree root removal costs range from $100 and $200 per hour, with most tree roots taking between one to five hours to remove on average. This means you could spend between $100 and $1,000 to remove tree roots that are getting in the way of your sewer line replacement project. 

The type of tree you have will largely determine the type of root system and how long it will take to remove the roots. For example, a palm tree does not have deep roots and is therefore cheaper to remove than, say, an oak tree, whose winding roots can take hours to remove. 

Hauling Away Old Pipes

It is up to you and your pro to handle the proper disposal of old or damaged pipes. It costs $250, on average, to haul away an entire length of sewer pipe. These can’t go to a traditional waste facility, but some are recycled, depending on the material. Talk to your contractor about the removal process and contact local regulatory agencies for the best place to bring old pipes. 

Permits 

In the vast majority of cases, sewer line work requires a permit due to biohazard risks and sanitation concerns. Your contractor likely handles these permits and wraps up the cost in the estimate. If called upon to acquire a permit on your own, it costs an average of $200, though pricing varies by location and municipality. Always make sure the permit is obtained before starting work.

Pros and Cons of Replacing a Sewer Line

The complexity involved with this project requires you to consider if replacing piping is the right choice. While working on your sewer line may be unavoidable in cases where cracks, collapses, and bursts have caused damage, you'll need to work with qualified plumbers to determine if a full replacement is the best option. Here's a peek at the pros and cons to consider:

Pros

• More efficient plumbing system

• Fewer clogs

• Improved drainage

• Less maintenance

• Increased home value

Cons

• Sewer line replacement costs can total thousands of dollars.

• Replacement can be a time-consuming and disruptive project.

• Complications during the project could result in bigger repairs or updates.

What Will It Cost Me to Repair My Own Sewer Line?

Working on a sewer line yourself without the required expertise can be a dangerous project, leading to additional unexpected damage. We strongly advise you to hire a sewer replacement pro near you to work on this type of repair.

If you know how to plumb a bathroom yourself, you may think you can tackle a sewer line repair, but this type of repair can quickly add up in cost—especially if you make mistakes along the way. Not to mention, sewer line repair can be complicated and messy to take on by yourself. 

You’ll also have to work with the city to hook up to the shared line that takes the waste to the treatment plant.

With all that in mind, this complex job is best left to a professional. You might be able to dig a trench yourself to save some money, though.

Before you grab a shovel:

• Call 811 or your relevant local number to get someone to mark any utility lines on your property. It might take a couple of days for someone to come, so plan ahead.

• Be sure you know exactly where the line or the section is that you need to replace.

• Check with your city for any connection requirements and a permit (Price will vary, but expect to pay about $200).

The sewer line is buried up to eight feet deep, so digging the trench can be taxing, but once you know where to dig and have the necessary permission, the only thing you need is a $30 shovel and some time.

"Most importantly, you must make sure the drain is pitched properly and in the right direction. And before you cut the sewer line, make sure you are using the proper tools to do so," says Jeff Botelho, Angi Expert Review Board member and Massachusetts-licensed journeyman plumber.

"Some older lines are made from fragile materials like clay or lead and can be damaged further by cutting them incorrectly. And if you're replacing a section with a different material than the existing pipe, make sure you use the appropriate couplings to join unalike materials."

Cost to DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

Labor for sewer line replacement costs $50 to $150 per hour, though this is usually broken down into a per-foot or total job estimate. Going the DIY route eliminates these labor costs, but replacing sewer pipes is an extraordinarily difficult job that requires a specialized skill set and plenty of expensive tools. 

This is not a job you learn by watching a few YouTube videos, as accessing underground pipes is time-consuming and potentially dangerous. There is a reason, after all, why technicians train for years before tackling this type of job. You can, however, lessen labor costs by digging trenches yourself, preparing and moving plants, and readying the area for work. 

How to Know You Need to Replace a Sewer Line

Sometimes, knowing you need to replace a broken sewer line is obvious—other times, not so much. Check out these seven signs you need to replace your sewer line:

1. Changes in Your Water Bills 

A good way to check for leaks is by jotting down the number on your water meter, waiting an hour without running any water, and then rechecking the number for signs of an increase.

2. Your Pipes Keep Gurgling

This is one symphony no one wants to hear. Drains or pipes that make continuous gurgling sounds may indicate a blocked sewer line.

3. Clogs in Your Plumbing System

As a common plumbing problem, clogs happen to even the best toilets, but if you notice it happens frequently or other drain lines keep clogging (bathtubs and sinks, for example), you may have a clog in your sewer line. Fortunately, there are several ways to clear a clogged drain that you can try yourself before you call in a professional. 

4. Your Landscape Is a Swamp

If you live in a swamp, this may be commonplace, but for any yard that isn’t a designated swamp, there’s a good chance your sudden and unexplainable wet spots are a sign of a sewage problem.

5. Bad Odors on Your Property

If it smells like sewage in your yard, or you detect smelly, stagnant water, you should probably call a plumber to inspect your home ASAP.

6. You See Mold in Your Home

A malfunctioning sewer line can increase your home’s humidity levels, leading to mold. You’re most likely to see mold near plumbing fixtures, like in your bathroom, so keep an eye out for signs of mold.

7. Increased Visitors From Wildlife

Pests like insects, rats, mice, and other animals could be a sign that your sewage system is leaking. These critters like damp, smelly environments, making a sewer line the perfect invitation.

How to Save on Sewer Line Replacement Costs 

Replacing a sewer line is costly and often unavoidable. Fortunately, there are some tips worth considering to save a few bucks.

• Go trenchless: If possible, for your specific issue, choose a trenchless replacement method to save some money. Trenchless pipe replacement does not disturb the lawn, the driveway, or anything else on your property. In other words, your post-job costs are minimal or non-existent. 

• Repair at first: Depending on the extent of the damage and the specific issue, you may be able to repair small sections to start as you set aside money for the full replacement. Talk to your pro and ask if this piecemeal approach is appropriate. 

• Remember annual inspections: All sewer lines eventually require replacement, but extending their lifespan is possible by conducting yearly inspections, performing regular cleanings, and staying on top of maintenance tasks. 

• Look into insurance endorsements: Adding an endorsement clause to your homeowner’s insurance policy to cover sewer line damage is a great way to save money in the long run. 

• Gather several estimates: Replacing damaged sewer pipes is a serious job that can be pricey, so don’t go with the first estimate you come across. Talk to about three pros to find the best company for your budget.

Questions to Ask a Sewer Line Replacement Contractor

Once you've reached out to a contractor for help, it's important to ask the right questions before committing to a start date for this project. 

• Are you a licensed sewer contractor in your state?

• Do you have insurance to cover any incidents that occur on my property during the project?

• Do you offer warranties for the completed work? If so, for how many years?

• Is my property suitable for trenchless sewer line replacement?

• What does an estimate for sewer line replacement costs include?

• Will there be additional charges to compensate for unexpected circumstances related to sloping, utility lines, soil, etc.?

• How is post-work cleanup billed? Are there separate charges for hauling away cut trees or old pipes?

• Are the costs for building permits included in the estimate?

First, you'll want to ask if the contractor you're speaking with is a licensed sewer contractor in your state. It's also important to confirm that a contractor has insurance that will cover any incidents that occur on your property while the project is being handled. With the stakes being high for unforeseen pipe damage, this is a big question to clear out of the way before signing any contracts.

It's also important to ask about warranties for completed work. Generally, reputable contractors offer warranties that cover all work performed for several years. If a problem arises during the warranty period, the contractor will return to offer a repair or replacement without any additional charges.

One of the biggest questions to ask a contractor when discussing a new sewer line has to do with whether or not your property is suitable for a trenchless sewer line replacement. Trenchless replacements are considered far less disruptive to the grass and concrete on your property. In addition to being faster than other methods, trenchless replacements can also cost significantly less. However, trenchless replacement isn't ideal for every property. For example, properties in sandy or rocky areas often require standard replacements.

Finally, it's important to get clarity on what an estimate for sewer line replacement cost includes. This is one of those projects where contractors can run into unexpected circumstances once they begin digging up the ground around your home. It's essential to know if you will be charged extra if your contractor needs to address issues related to sloping, utility lines, soil, and more.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We’ve surveyed thousands of real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to costquotes@angi.com. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.