Key takeaways
- Typical cost: $1,388–$5,323 per project, about $3,319 on average.
- Average project: about $3,319
- Replacement: $50–$250 per foot
- Camera inspection: $100–$500
- Timeline: Trenchless methods are generally faster than open-trench replacement; spot repairs are often done in a day.
- Permits: All sewer line projects require a permit, typically $100–$1,000.
Sewer Line Replacement Cost at a glance
Sewer line repair and replacement typically costs $1,388–$5,323, with an average around $3,319. Full replacement is priced by the foot, at $50–$250 per linear foot.
| Item | Typical cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Camera inspection | $100–$500 | Most jobs start here |
| Cracked or broken pipe repair | $600–$1,050 | Localized damage |
| Partial replacement | $50–$250 per foot | Collapsed section |
| Traditional excavation replacement | $50–$200 per foot | Open trench |
| Pipe bursting (trenchless) | $60–$200 per foot | Pulls new pipe through old |
| Cured-in-place lining (trenchless) | $90–$250 per foot | Lines the existing pipe |
Prices run lowest in states like Arkansas, Mississippi and Alabama and highest in Hawaii, California and Alaska. See the full breakdown and cost by state →
Sewer Line Repair & Replacement cost questions
- What is the cost of camera inspection? The typical cost of camera inspection is $100–$500. Most jobs start here.
- What is the cost of cracked or broken pipe repair? The typical cost of cracked or broken pipe repair is $600–$1,050. Localized damage.
- What is the cost of partial replacement? The typical cost of partial replacement is $50–$250 per foot. Collapsed section.
- What is the cost of traditional excavation replacement? The typical cost of traditional excavation replacement is $50–$200 per foot. Open trench.
- What is the cost of pipe bursting (trenchless)? The typical cost of pipe bursting (trenchless) is $60–$200 per foot. Pulls new pipe through old.
- What is the cost of cured-in-place lining (trenchless)? The typical cost of cured-in-place lining (trenchless) is $90–$250 per foot. Lines the existing pipe.
- What is the cost of under-slab section? The typical cost of under-slab section is Adds $300–$350 per foot. Inside the foundation.
- What is the cost of root removal? The typical cost of root removal is $100–$600.
- What is the cost of permit? The typical cost of permit is $100–$1,000. Varies by city.
- What is the cost of landscaping restoration? The typical cost of landscaping restoration is $4.50–$12 per sq ft. After digging.
Signs of a sewer line problem
- Several slow or backed-up drains at once
- Sewage odor in the yard or house
- Soggy, extra-green or sunken strips in the yard
- Recurring clogs
- Gurgling or bubbling drains
- New foundation cracks or pests
Trenchless vs. traditional replacement
| Method | Cost per foot | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional excavation | $50–$200 | Badly collapsed or misaligned lines |
| Pipe bursting | $60–$200 | Replacing pipe with minimal digging |
| Cured-in-place lining | $90–$250 | Cracked pipe that still holds its shape |
Trenchless methods need only small access pits, which can save on lawn, driveway and landscaping restoration.
Repair or replace?
Spot repairs ($600–$1,050) make sense for localized cracks or a single root intrusion. When damage is widespread or keeps coming back, replacement is usually the better value. Modern sewer lines last 50–100 years, and PVC can last 100+.
Common sewer line repair & replacement questions
How much does sewer line replacement cost?
Most sewer line projects cost about $1,388–$5,323. Full replacement runs $50–$250 per linear foot depending on method.
Is trenchless sewer replacement worth it?
Often, when the yard, driveway or landscaping would be expensive to restore. Trenchless costs $60–$250 per foot versus $50–$200 for excavation.
How much does it cost to replace a sewer line under a slab?
Sections under the slab add about $300–$350 per foot because crews must cut and restore concrete.
Who pays for the sewer line to the street?
Homeowners usually own the lateral from the house to the main or property line; the city typically owns the main. Rules vary, so check locally.
Timeline, permits and DIY
How long it takes
Trenchless methods are generally faster than open-trench replacement; spot repairs are often done in a day.
Permits
All sewer line projects require a permit, typically $100–$1,000.
DIY or hire a pro?
Not a DIY job: sewer work needs specialized equipment, correct slope and an inspected permit.
Questions to ask contractors
Ask every bidder the same questions so you can compare quotes apples to apples.
- Can I see the camera inspection video?
- Is a spot repair or lining an option instead of full replacement?
- Is landscaping and driveway restoration included?
- What warranty covers the new line?
Maintenance that prevents costly repairs
- Don't flush wipes or grease
- Have roots cleared before they block the line
- Camera-inspect older lines when buying a home
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a permit to replace a sewer line?
Yes. Sewer line projects require a permit, typically $100–$1,000 depending on the city.
How long do sewer lines last?
Modern sewer lines last 50–100 years; PVC can last 100 years or more and cast iron 75–100.
How much does it cost to fix a cracked sewer pipe?
A localized crack typically costs $600–$1,050 to repair.
What does sewer pipe lining cost?
Cured-in-place lining typically costs $90–$250 per linear foot.
Can I replace a sewer line myself?
No. It requires specialized equipment, a permit and correct slope; mistakes cause ongoing backups.
In-depth sewer line repair & replacement guides
Sewer Line Repair & Replacement by city
Sources: HomeAdvisor — Sewer line repair and replacement cost · This Old House — Sewer line replacement cost · HomeServe — Trenchless sewer line repair cost. Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.