How Much Does it Cost to Replace a Sewer Main Line?

Do you know what sewage water smells like? If you do, chances are you are dealing with a broken sewer line or someone in your home has nasty farts. If you don’t want to deal with that horrible stench then replace your sewage line, but you have no clue what the cost will be. 

At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air, we've replaced thousands of sewage lines throughout the Los Angeles area. We've accumulated decades of combined experience in the field of home sewer lines, including pricing. We use our expert knowledge to complete jobs efficiently and educate you and other homeowners, so you can make the right financial decisions in home maintenance and repairs. 

In this article, we'll review the different factors that affect pricing, such as:

• Inspection and Diagnosis 
• Sewer Line Pipe Damage and Length
• Required Materials to Replace Pipes
• Different Sewer Line Replacement Methods

You may pay anywhere from $1000 to $30,000, depending on different factors. Your home’s design and sewage set up play a big role in determining what type of work and materials are required.  To help save you a headache, we came up with this helpful guide to help you better understand sewer main line replacement pricing so that you can make the best decision for your home and family.  

Symptoms of a Broken Main Sewer Line

You might have been that unlucky person dealing with the rotten egg odor of a broken sewer main line. If not, then you may be dealing with these other symptoms of a broken sewer line. 

•  Frequent Clogs: Only some people are diligent about what is flushed or discarded down a drain. Unfortunately, debris, grease, food scraps, and other materials can build up in a sewer pipe leading to a blockage.
• Slow Drains: Have you noticed water slowly draining in your shower or sink? A single slow drain may be a minor clog. But a frequent slow drain could be a symptom of a broken sewer line. 
• Strange Loud Sounds: You could be in your bathroom getting ready or in the kitchen preparing a meal when you hear gurgling sounds coming from the sink or toilet. These noises are common symptoms of clogged drains due to a broken main sewer line. 
• Sewage Backup: This might be one of the nastiest things to occur in your home. Your home's drainage system is designed to remove wastewater. A sewer backup is commonly associated with a broken main sewer line and requires immediate attention from a professional. 

No matter how much you spray air freshener, an overpowering sewage smell will still linger if your sewage pipe is broken. Even if your sewage line isn’t broken, there could be other reasons for that horrible stench. 

Sewer Main Line Replacement Costs

Every plumbing company in the Los Angeles area is different and sets their own prices at their own discretion. However, there is a price range, and you can expect to pay as low as $1000 or as high as $30,000. 

There are many factors that play a part in determining the final price for replacing the main sewer line. We'll review each of those factors in the following sections. 

Inspection and Diagnosis

The initial inspection is one of the cost factors that is incorporated into replacing a broken sewer line. A plumbing inspection can cost you anywhere between $100 to $500. Some companies may waive the diagnostic if you decide to move forward with the sewer line replacement. 

Professional plumbing companies will usually do a camera inspection to diagnose the problem. The inspection costs vary from company to company, and may be included in the overall repair cost. 

Pipe Damage and Length

The extent of the damage from your home's sewer line is another important factor in determining the final price. Professional plumbers will use their expertise and camera inspection to see how much of the pipes, in feet, are damaged. 

The more extensive the pipe damage is, the more you can expect to pay. For instance, a broken sewer line is more expensive to repair than a small pipe drain replacement. The main sewer line length varies across houses in Los Angeles.  

Replacement Pipe Material

The replacement pipe material is a  major factor in determining the cost of a sewer main line replacement. 

The replacement pipe can be made out of any of the following materials.

• Cast Iron: Although common in older homes, cast iron pipes aren't usually the first choice for sewer line replacement. They may be more expensive and subject to rust over time. You can pay around $150 per foot of cast iron pipe used in repairs.
• ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene): ABS pipes are known for being strong and durable. They're also easier to install, making them a popular choice for plumbing technicians. These pipes are made out of plastic and cost a few dollars to $25 per foot.

Your home may have other types of pipe material used for drains, but these two materials are better suited for a sewer main line replacement service. These pipe materials are designed to last long and help increase flow of wastewater away from your home.

Type of Pipe Replacement Method Used

Once a plumber determines that you need to replace your main sewer line, they will use one of the following methods to complete the work.

• Trench Repair: This method involves excavating around the main sewer line and then replacing it. Since a lot of digging is involved, your yard's appearance will be affected. 
• Trenchless Repair: A less invasive method, a trenchless repair can be completed through pipe-bursting or epoxy liner. 

Both methods can cost anywhere from around $1000 to around $30,000. One might be more affordable than the other depending on the condition of your pipe, design of your yard, and sewage and drainage pipe layout.

Finding Value in Replacing Sewer Main Line 

If you feel yourself stressing over the costs of replacing the main sewer line due to a lack of funds, do not panic. Most plumbing companies offer financing through 3rd party-lenders so you can address your sewer pipe concerns immediately. 

At Monkey Wrench Plumbing, Heating & Air, we've replaced sewer lines in people's homes for over 15 years. We've seen and fixed it all when it comes to sewer main line replacement. That knowledge is reflected in our learning center dedicated to helping homeowners with any plumbing, heating, and air conditioning concerns.

Our technicians are available to inspect and review any concerns you’re experiencing with your home. We're available for appointments online or at (310) 853-8690.

A damaged sewer line is a major stinky business. If you are still trying to decide whether to replace your home's main line, read this article about signs to replace a sewer line.