Sewer line repair covers a wide range of jobs. Clearing roots from a line that's otherwise sound is the smallest. Repairing one cracked section costs more, and replacing a collapsed lateral is the biggest. That's why Plumbing Doctor puts a camera in the line first: you see the problem and the options before you pay for any of them.
What changes the price?
- What's wrong. Roots and buildup can often be cleared and jetted. A single crack or offset joint can be repaired on its own. A line that's collapsed or bellied in several places needs replacing.
- Length and depth. A longer or deeper lateral means more digging and more pipe.
- What's above it. Lawn is easier to dig through than a driveway, patio or mature trees.
- Pipe material. Older clay and cast-iron lines tend to have more problems along their length than newer PVC.
- Permits. Sewer repairs and replacements generally need a permit and inspection from your town, which we handle.
- Time of day. A backup at night or on a weekend adds our $250 after-hours fee for the first visit.
Why the camera comes first
Clearing a line tells you it was blocked, not why. A camera inspection records the inside of the pipe, so you can see roots, cracks, sags and collapsed sections yourself. Then you can decide between clearing, a section repair or a replacement with the footage in front of you. Mike explains more in What's the point of a sewer camera inspection?
Who pays for the sewer line?
In most New Jersey towns, the homeowner owns the lateral from the house to the town's main, often including the part under the street. Check with your town's sewer department for your street.
Signs your sewer line needs attention
- Backups in the lowest drain in the house
- Several drains clogging at once
- Gurgling toilets when the washer drains
- Sewage smell in the yard or basement
- Soggy or extra-green patches of lawn over the line
Ways to pay
Sewer line replacement is a bigger job, so we offer financing through Wisetack.
How Plumbing Doctor quotes
After the camera inspection you get a flat price for the fix you choose. It doesn't change once work starts, and it comes with 1 year on parts and labor. See sewer and water line repair or call 908-873-6686.
Michael Holt
Owner and operator of Plumbing Doctor, NJ Master Plumber (Lic. #36BI01345600) and U.S. military veteran.
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