The average drain pipe replacement costs $696, but it can range between $225 and $1,169, depending on factors like type and location. The average cost to replace a drain pipe is $696, though most homeowners spend between $225 and $1,169.
Average Cost:
Repairing or replacing a small section of drain pipe can typically run between $250 and $1,250. Repairing larger sections or breaks can run between $400 and $1,500, with that cost going higher based on complexity of the repair.
Pipe replacement averages $1,252 and ranges from $371 to $2,133. Your plumbing repair pro can assess your home and estimate the overall cost. Pipes are the circulatory system of your house. They deliver drinking water, clean dishes, fill the bathtub, and send wastewater on its way.
Regardless of the material, each of these plumbing products have a life span that you should know so you can gauge whether you need an upgrade. Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 50 years.
The average cost to replace a sewer pipe is £535 per metre. However, if you need to connect to the mains sewer from scratch, you'll also need to factor in making the necessary applications to your water company. With that in mind, typical project costs can vary from around £10,000 to £45,000.
The average cost to install a drainage system in a yard is $4,617, though most homeowners spend between $2,120 and $7,114. The installation cost ranges between $30 to $40 per linear foot, depending on the type of drainage system.
On average, a small-scale pipe replacement could take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Just a Few Hours: For minor pipe damage or replacement of easily accessible pipe sections, professional plumbers could complete the job in just a few hours.
Simply put, your mainline is your sewer line. And all your drains connect to your main line. Your main line is also the line that goes from your house to the city connection or your septic tank. Before leaving your home, all of your drains dump into your mainline.
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.
Anticipating Plumbing Costs per Hour: What to Expect
In 2025, homeowners in the U.S. can expect to pay an average of $90 per hour for plumbing services, though rates generally span from $45 to $200 based on service type and complexity.
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.
Homeowners insurance may cover sudden damage due to a burst pipe or leaking pipe, assuming the failure was unexpected, and pay to repair or replace damaged items.
Plumber Drain Snaking Costs
Simple sink, shower, or toilet clogs – $100 to $250 per drain. Kitchen sink or laundry drain cleanout – $150 to $275 average cost. Main sewer line augering – $200 to $500 per cleaning. Extensive sewervideo inspection & repairs – $400 to $1,000+
PVC drain pipes are known to last between 25to 40 years, however, with recent advancements, they could possibly last as long as 70 years or more. While PVC pipes don't last as long as metal versions, they're a good choice for homeowners because they don't rust or corrode.
One of the most common plumbing emergencies is a leaking or burst pipe. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, such as freezing temperatures, old and corroded pipes, high water pressure, and more. If you notice any leaking water coming from a pipe, it is essential to act quickly to prevent any further damage.
On some occasions, the best option for drainage repair is to fix drain using trenchless technologies such as patch repairs, which are cheaper, less time-consuming and cause less destruction, while other instances will necessitate full excavation and even drain replacement.
Your main drain line rarely needs a complete replacement. Typically, a plumber can repair it without the expense of digging up and replacing the whole line. However, a replacement is warranted if the cast iron or tile pipes have collapsed completely.
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.
It is simply the water lines that are replaced, so the fixtures themselves, such as faucets or toilets, are not included. Drains and sewer pipes are also not part of the repiping process.
Blocked drain outside: DIY fix
If you're at all in doubt, call a professional plumber or drainage expert who will have the tools to unblock the drain quickly and efficiently. Don't attempt anything you're not sure about.
Baking soda is abrasive, which, when used in large quantities, will cause the drain more damage. Additionally, the acidic nature of vinegar can eat away rubber and metal, damaging the plumbing. As these products break down the pipe and connectors in the plumbing in your home, it will cause more clogs over time.