Key takeaways
- Short answer: Traditional excavation typically costs $50–$200 per linear foot, pipe bursting $60–$200 and cured-in-place lining $90–$250.
- Excavation: $50–$200 per foot
- Pipe bursting: $60–$200 per foot
- Lining: $90–$250 per foot
- Typical sewer line repair & replacement cost: $1,388–$5,323 per project.
Cost comparison
| Method | Cost per foot | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional excavation | $50–$200 | Collapsed or badly misaligned pipe |
| Pipe bursting | $60–$200 | Full replacement with small access pits |
| Cured-in-place lining | $90–$250 | Cracked pipe that still holds its shape |
Don't forget restoration
Open trenches mean restoring lawn, landscaping and sometimes concrete. Landscaping restoration can cost $4.50–$12 per square foot, which can make trenchless the cheaper total project.
Start with a camera inspection
A camera inspection ($100–$500) shows whether the pipe can be lined, burst or must be dug up. Ask for a copy of the video.
Related questions
Does trenchless last as long?
New PVC or HDPE pipe from bursting can last decades; lining adds a durable new pipe inside the old one.
When can't trenchless be used?
Severely collapsed pipe, major sags or very poor alignment may require excavation.
Is a permit needed?
Yes, sewer line projects require a permit, typically $100–$1,000.
Other sewer line repair & replacement questions homeowners ask
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.
Sewer Line Repair & Replacement at a glance
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.
DIY or pro?
Not a DIY job: sewer work needs specialized equipment, correct slope and an inspected permit.
What sewer line repair costs
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.
Keep reading
Sources: HomeAdvisor — Sewer line repair and replacement cost · This Old House — Sewer line replacement cost. Ranges are rounded estimates; see our editorial policy.