Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on HomeGuide.
How much does it cost to replace or repair a sewer line?
Sewer line replacement costs$50 to $250 per linear foot on average, or $2,000 to $10,000 total for 40 linear feet.
Sewer line repairs cost $150 to $3,800, depending on the method used. Small tree roots or clogs may only need a basic repair, while broken lines and large cracks require full or partial replacement.
How long does it take to replace or repair a sewer line?
Replacing or repairing sewer lines takes 1 to 5 days on average, depending on the number of obstacles and length of the replacement. Trenchless sewer line replacements take much less time to complete than manually digging trenches.
How do I know if I need to replace or repair my sewer pipes?
Here are some common signs that indicate a sewer line needs work:
Unpleasant odors in the home
Gurgling sounds
Clogged or backed-up drains
Debris in the bath or basement
Leaking or puddles
How long do sewer lines last?
Sewer lines last 30 to 100 years, depending on the material. Outdated Orangeburg and clay sewer pipes last 30 to 60 years, while PVC, cast iron, and copper sewer lines last 50 to 100 years.
The life expectancy of your sewer system will ultimately depend on maintenance, the soil condition, and if any nearby tree roots get inside the pipes.
Who is responsible for sewer line repair?
In most cases, the homeowner is responsible for maintaining, replacing, and repairing their pipes that connect to the main line. However, the city or municipality you live in is responsible if the blockages or issues are in the main city line.
Does homeowners' insurance cover sewer line repair or replacement?
Homeowners insurance policies differ in coverage, but most policies cover damage from faulty workmanship, accidents, or vandalism. Most do not cover regular wear and tear due to lack of maintenance. You can also purchase sewer line insurance, which covers more repairs and damage to sewer systems than basic homeowners' insurance.
How do I choose a sewer service company?
Before hiring a sewer line contractor, make sure to:
Get at least three in-person quotes to compare.
Look for experienced companies that have been in business for 5+ years.
Check out their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Verify their insurance, license, and bonds.
Avoid the cheapest quotes as quality may suffer.
Get a detailed estimate, contract, and warranty before any work begins.
Never pay in full before the repair or replacement starts.
What questions do I ask sewer line contractors?
To hire a high-quality contractor, ask these questions:
How long have you been in business?
Do you have any certifications for sewer line work?
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
How long will it take to replace or repair the sewer system?
What kind of piping material do you recommend?
Does this estimate include cleanup and disposal?
What other fees can I expect?
Will you need to remove any trees or landscaping before starting?
Will you need to any subcontractors?
What does your warranty cover?
Reviews for San Diego sewer repair companies
Recent success stories from people in the San Diego area.
Lucy C.
I had a pipe burst this weekend and Hydro Hero was awesome! Great customer service and they sent a tech to check things out fast! Issac came out and fixed it up and explained what was happening. He was honest and reasonably priced. I would definitely use Hydro Hero again!
Hydro Hero Plumbing
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