How much does a sewer cleanout cost?
How much does a sewer cleanout cost?
$2,000 – $5,000 average total cost
Average sewer cleanout cost
A two-way sewer cleanout costs $2,000 to $5,000 installed on average, with labor making up most of the cost. The cost of sewer cleanout installation depends on the geographical location, site conditions, type of cleanout installed, complexity of the installation, and if the job involves any additional repairs.
| Factor | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Materials | $200 – $900 |
| Labor, permits, and job supplies | $1,800 – $4,100 |
| Average total cost | $2,000 – $5,000 |
What is a sewer cleanout?
A sewer cleanout is a vertical pipe connected to your home's sewer line. This important plumbing component features a removable cap that allows professional plumbers to access your sewer system for cleaning, inspection, and repairs. The cleanout serves as an entry point for maintenance equipment and inspection tools.
Most cleanouts are located near your home's foundation or close to the property line. They provide direct access to your lateral sewer line, which connects your home's plumbing to the main city sewer line or septic tank.
If you don't have a sewer cleanout, plumbers have to go through sinks, tubs, and toilets to reach the pipes to clear a main line clog. Removing and reinstalling the toilet increases costs.
Cost of a sewer cleanout by type
There are three types of sewer cleanouts, with two-way cleanouts being the most common. The table below shows the average cost and details for each type of cleanout.
| Cleanout type | Average cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| One-way / Single | $1,400 – $2,500 | Access from one direction |
| Two-way / Double | $2,000 – $5,000 | Bidirectional access; most common |
| Test tee | $5 – $25 each* | Limited access; wall installations |
*Not including installation
Single cleanout
A single or one-way cleanout costs $1,400 to $2,500 installed and features one pipe connecting to your sewer line at a 45-degree angle. This configuration provides access to only one direction of your sewer system, toward the municipal connection. While cheaper than two-way cleanouts, one-way cleanouts have limited functionality for comprehensive maintenance work.
Double cleanout
A double or two-way sewer cleanout costs $2,000 to $5000 installed and is the most popular choice among homeowners. This configuration features two individual pipes installed adjacent to each other, both positioned at 45-degree angles. The dual pipes face opposite directions, providing access to both sides of your sewer line.
While more expensive than single cleanouts, double systems deliver superior functionality and long-term value.
Test tee
A test tee costs $5 to $25 for the part alone and connects directly downward to your sewer line at a 90-degree angle. This type of fitting is used mostly for lines inside a home's walls, so pros install it during construction to test the plumbing system.
A test tee's perpendicular connection makes it difficult to navigate drain cleaning equipment into the sewer system.
Sewer cleanout installation cost factors
Several factors influence the final cost of a sewer cleanout installation:
Location: Labor rates and material costs vary significantly by region, with higher prices in major cities and areas with a higher cost of living.
Extent of excavation: Deeper sewer lines and obstacles increase labor costs due to the additional time and effort required.
Permits: A permit for residential plumbing projects costs $50 to $300+. Additional permits and fees may apply depending on the complexity of the project.
Other services: If you need other plumbing jobs or repairs done at the same time, you may be able to complete them at a discounted rate.
Labor
Professional plumbers charge $75 to $150 per hour on average for sewer cleanout installation or replacement, depending on the location and plumber's expertise. Most straightforward installations require several hours to complete. Projects involving deep excavation or challenging terrain extend the work timeframe and increase costs.
Professional installation ensures proper connection to your existing sewer line. Improper installation can lead to leaks, blockages, or expensive repairs.
Repairs
Additional repairs may become necessary during cleanout installation, as older sewer lines often reveal damage during excavation. Common repairs include replacing damaged pipe sections, fixing connection joints, or addressing root intrusion issues.
Sewer line repair costs $50 to $250 per linear foot to replace or repair damaged sections.
A sewer camera inspection costs $125 to $500+.
Sewer cleanout cap replacement costs $5 to $50 for the part, depending on the material.
Additional costs to consider
Beyond basic installation and potential repairs to the sewer line itself, several additional expenses may apply to your project:
| Service | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Main sewer line cleaning cost | $150 – $500+ |
| Landscaping restoration cost | $4 – $12+ per square foot |
| New toilet installation cost | $350 – $800 |
| Sump pump installation cost | $600 – $2,500 |
| Septic tank system replacement cost | $3,500 – $8,500+ |
Sewer cleanout FAQs
What does a sewer cleanout look like?
A sewer cleanout appears as a white or black capped pipe extending vertically from the ground. The cap sits flush with or slightly above ground level. Most cleanout caps are 3 to 6 inches in diameter and feature either threaded or expansion-style closures for easy removal by professionals.
Where are sewer cleanouts located?
Sewer cleanouts are located near your home's foundation or close to the property line. They provide access to the main sewer line connecting your house to the municipal system. Multiple cleanouts may exist on larger properties or homes with complex plumbing layouts.
How long does it take to install a sewer cleanout?
Sewer cleanout installation takes anywhere from 2 hours to several days, depending on the project complexity and site conditions. Simple installations in accessible locations take 2 to 5 hours. Complex projects requiring extensive excavation or repairs may extend to multiple days.
Are sewer cleanouts required?
Building codes in most areas require cleanouts for new construction and major plumbing renovations. Most homes constructed after 1970 include cleanouts due to updated plumbing regulations. Older homes without cleanouts benefit greatly from installation, as it simplifies future maintenance and repairs.
Getting estimates from sewer contractors
Follow these guidelines when searching for a local plumber or sewer contractor near you for sewer cleanout installation:
Request detailed written estimates from at least three licensed contractors.
Verify each contractor has proper licensing and insurance coverage.
Ask about warranty coverage on both labor and materials.
Confirm whether they include permit fees and inspections in the quoted price.
Check their reviews on HomeGuide and Google before making a decision.
Questions to ask a sewer contractor
Asking the right questions will help you select the best contractor for your sewer cleanout installation:
What type of cleanout do you recommend for my specific situation?
Will you handle all necessary permits and inspections?
How long will the installation process take from start to finish?
What warranty do you provide on your work and materials?
Does the estimate include all labor, materials, permits, and inspection fees?
What additional costs might come up during the installation?
Can you provide references from recent cleanout installation projects?
Will you restore the landscaping and surfaces after excavation work?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.