How much does it cost to replace a 25 foot sewer line?

Author: Mohammed Weber IV  |  Last update: Wednesday, March 26, 2025

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.

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.

How often do sewer lines need to be replaced?

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.

How much does it cost to replace a $50 foot sewer line in California?

Per Foot Cost

The cost per linear foot for sewer line replacement varies between $50 and $250. For 50 feet, this translates to a total estimate of $2,500 to $12,500.

How much does it cost to replace my sewer line? - Pricing Breakdown and Analysis

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.

Does homeowners insurance cover sewer line replacement?

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.

Can I replace a sewer line myself?

Traditional sewer line work involves digging a trench around the line to expose it. If you do the repairs yourself, you'll usually have to go this route, which means you may end up damaging your whole lawn. However, some professionals offer trenchless sewer line repair methods.

What is the life expectancy of a sewer line?

This pipe, which lies buried under the soil of your yard, can last anywhere from 50-100 years or more, depending on the material from which the pipe is made and the conditions under which it is used.

How much does it cost to run a new sewer line?

As we mentioned earlier, in the state of California, the cost of sewer line replacement can amount to anywhere between $50-$250 per linear foot, with an average of around $150.

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.

How much does it cost to replace an underground drain pipe?

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.

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.

What is the difference between a sewer line and a sewer main?

Main drains are located in the walls and floors of your home, while sewer line drains are located outside underground. Each drain pipe in your home is connected to a different household fixture on one end, including toilets, sinks and bathtubs, and the other end is connected to the main sewer line.

How much does it cost to replace a cast iron sewer pipe?

Lets talk a little about average or possible cost of replacing your cast iron sewer pipes. The overwhelming majority of our estimates range from 15,000 to 25,000. Sometimes but not often we see estimates ranging from 25,000 to 35,000 and although it happens it is extremely rare to see an estimate over 35,000.

Does replacing sewer line increase home value?

If your sewer line is damaged, it could delay or even halt a possible sale. Even if you do sell the property, you could have to accept a lower price or make concessions. However, getting trenchless sewer line repair done can improve the value of your place.

How do you tell if your 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.

How long does it take to replace a sewer line?

Typically, to replace a sewer line it can take anywhere from 1 to 2 days, to 3 to 5 days. In some rare cases, it may even be as quick as one day. Generally, the estimated time frame will depend on the layout of your property, your home's piping system, and the depth required to excavate.

How often should home sewer lines be cleaned?

Most people should have their sewer lines cleaned every 18 to 22 months or every year and a half to two years.

How does a plumber fix a main sewer line?

For traditional sewer line repairs, the existing pipe is removed and replaced with a new one. This involves gaining access to existing sewer lines. Interior repairs usually involve tearing out drywall and flooring to reach hidden sewer lines. Exterior repairs require digging a trench to access buried sewer lines.

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.

How long does it take to replace a sewer line under a concrete slab?

There are many benefits to the trenchless method, most notably that it takes just 1 – 3 days to complete the job. You won't have a plumbing crew invading your home for weeks. Call Before You Dig Up That Concrete Slab!

How much is sewer line insurance?

Sewer line coverage varies in cost but can generally be obtained for $5 to $15 per month, depending on your property size and the area in which you live. Because sewer line incidents often cost upwards of $10,000 to repair, many homeowners consider sewer line coverage a good investment.

How to fix a belly in a sewer line?

The only way to fix a sewer line belly is by using an open trench method, digging up the pipe and replacing the section that has sagged. The joints holding the pipes together are reinforced and the ground underneath is filled with the proper material to prevent future sewer line bellies.

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.

Previous article
How do I check the AC level in my car?
Next article
What is the best finish for acrylic paint?