How do you fix a sewer line without digging it?

Author: Natalia Schumm DDS  |  Last update: Sunday, March 22, 2026

There are a few different ways that we can repair sewer lines without digging. Two of the most common methods include pipe bursting and pipe relining. Relining your pipes can be a perfect solution if your sewer line has cracks and leaky joints.

Can sewer pipes be repaired without digging?

Roto-Rooter's Zero-Dig Pipe Restoration Services can bring most old sewers and drainpipes back to life without digging trenches to repair or replace them. Little to no digging is required and some trenchless services can be completed in as... Fast, Friendly and Professional Service.

Can you fix a collapsed drain without digging?

How does no-dig drain repair work? The “no dig” method involves inserting a liner impregnated with resin into the damaged pipeline. Once in position, the liner is inflated to create a strong layer inside the pipe. This gives a water tight repair, sealing and protecting the pipe from further deterioration.

Can you fix a sewer line yourself?

While it's certainly possible for a homeowner to replace the sewer line from the house to the street, it's not going to be an easy job. It's going to require both knowledge and manpower because it needs to be done right, or it won't work properly.

How long does a trenchless sewer line last?

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is the most common material for trenchless sewer repair. It's flexible and easy to maneuver underground without excavation, and it's durable enough to last for between 50 and 100 years if your tech installs it properly.

Repair your sewer line without digging it up

What are the problems with trenchless sewer repair?

Some of the cons of trenchless sewer repair are:
  • Not suitable for all situations: If the sewer pipes have collapsed or are severely misaligned, trenchless methods may not be workable.
  • High initial cost: The upfront cost can be higher than traditional methods, which might be a consideration for some homeowners.

Why is sewer line replacement so expensive?

Sewer work is expensive because of the labor-intensive process involved, which includes excavation, pipe removal, and installation of a new one. It requires significant manual labor and expertise, driving up the overall cost.

What is the cheapest way to replace a sewer line?

Trenchless sewer repairs, such as pipe lining or pipe bursting, are typically 30-40% less expensive than traditional excavation and less invasive. Traditional excavation, which involves digging a trench to access the damaged pipe, is usually more expensive and can cause significant damage to your yard.

Does insurance cover broken sewer line?

Does homeowners insurance cover your sewer line if it's damaged? Damage to your sewer line may be covered by your policy if it is caused by perils such as hail or windstorms, explosions, lightning or fire, damages caused by vehicles, vandalism or falling objects.

How deep are sewer lines buried?

For instance, residential sewer line depth ranges from 18 to 30 inches. However, city sewer line depths are different. Your city's sewer lines must always be deeper than the deepest residential pipe to allow waste to flow downhill. As such, these lines can go as deep as needed.

Does homeowners insurance cover a collapsed drain?

You won't be surprised to learn that insurance policies differ from company to company. The first thing to do is to check what's written in your home insurance policy in relation to drainage. As a rule of thumb, most providers will cover a collapsed drain which has been caused by accidental damage.

How much does pipe relining cost?

So you've had a pipe video inspection done and the plumbers say that your cast iron pipe have to be replaced. Then you did some research and found out by pipe lining and that it could save you a lot of money. The question is how much money? Under houses pipe relining can range from $100 to $300 per linear foot .

How do you install underground pipes without digging?

Microtunneling is a trenchless method that involves the use of a micro tunnel boring machine to excavate a tunnel underground. The machine is controlled remotely and uses a pipe-jacking system to install the new pipe. Microtunneling is commonly used for the installation of sewer and water pipelines.

How does no dig sewer repair work?

Trenchless Sewer Repair Methods

A liner is initially soft and flexible, and imbued with a resin that completely hardens into a water-tight seal when dry. This liner is fed through your segment of damaged line by a specialized winch tool, and is then inflated once it is in place.

Is Roto-Rooter more expensive than other plumbers?

Roto-Rooter is a national service available in every U.S. state, including Alaska and Hawaii. Flat-rate pricing might be slightly higher in states with a higher cost of living, such as California or New York, but most plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour.

How long does it take to fix a main sewer line?

Sewer repair times vary, but patching a minor crack or clearing a clog may only take a few hours. Trenchless sewer line replacement can take around two business days, while traditional replacement can take three or more.

What to do if sewer line breaks?

If you have a mainline or sewer line break, it is best to let the professionals fix it.

Are local governments responsible for paying for sewer line repairs?

Sewer laterals are the underground pipes that connect your home wastewater to the main sewer line in the street. Homeowners are responsible for their sewer laterals, while problems with the public sewer main line are managed by the city or municipality.

Is sewer line replacement tax deductible?

As a general rule, sewer line repairs are considered to be standard home maintenance expenses, which means you are not eligible for a tax break on your personal income tax returns.

Can you replace main sewer line yourself?

As we mentioned above, it's certainly possible for a homeowner to perform sewer line replacement or sewer line repair. However, it's definitely not an easy job. When you replace the sewer line yourself you run the risk of causing even more damage.

How many years does a sewer line last?

Generally speaking, you're going to find that most main sewer lines will only last somewhere between 50 and 100 years before you need to do a main sewer line replacement. You could very well have a broken sewer line on your hands right now and not even realize it.

Is trenchless sewer repair worth it?

We find that the pros of a trenchless sewer replacement far outweigh the one apparent con which is a higher upfront cost than doing a trench pipe repair. But the difference in cost is slight, easily balanced when you consider your other options. Pro: Trenchless sewer replacement is faster than traditional repair.

Can a sewer line be replaced without digging?

Pipe bursting is a method of repairing or replacing our sewer lines without digging trenches in the ground and wreaking havoc on your yard. It is not the only trenchless method, but it is one of the most popular options that avoid digging up the yard.

How much does it cost to put in a new sewer line?

Contractors typically charge per linear foot for both the removal and installation of the new sewer line. In California, that cost can equal anywhere between $50-$250 per linear foot, with an average of around $150.

How do I know if my sewer line needs to be replaced?

7 Warning Signs Your Sewer Line Needs to Be Replaced
  1. There's a Spike in Your Water Bill. ...
  2. You Hear Gurgling Coming from the Pipes. ...
  3. The Water Is Slowly Draining. ...
  4. Your Yard is Soggy. ...
  5. The Smell of Sewage Lingers. ...
  6. Pests Are Attracted to Your Yard. ...
  7. The Toilet Bowl Water Level Is Up and Down.

Previous article
What to do if trapped under collapsed building?
Next article
Is a 7 year old washing machine worth fixing?