How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Sewer Line in Michigan

What is a Sewer Line and Why Is It Important?

A sewer line is how your home connects to your local sewer system. It is one of the most important parts of your plumbing system as this is the only way for wastewater to leave your home. The sewer line is a pipe located underneath your house that carries wastewater from your house to the sewer main that is located under the street. All of the waste from your toilets, sinks, and tubs travels through the sewer line. The sewer line pipe is buried deep underground below your house where it is protected from freezing.

Top Factors That Affect the Cost of Sewer Line Repair and Replacement in Michigan

Sewer line replacements can be costly. It’s important to maintain your sewer line and take early action on repairs before things get worse and cost you more money. Your sewer line may need to be repaired or replaced for various reasons; both in and out of your control. The two most common reasons why a sewer line may need to be replaced or repaired are damage due to growing tree roots and clogs caused by buildup.

There are several elements that affect the cost of sewer line replacement. Here are some factors that can increase or decrease the cost of sewer line replacement in your Michigan home:

Obtaining a Michigan Municipal Sewer Line Permit

Installing a new sewer line in Michigan requires a permit. The plumber will often pull the permit, but as a homeowner you should always verify that the correct permits have been pulled.

How Easy Is It To Access The Sewer Line

Some sewer lines are difficult to access, for example, if they’re located under a tree or buried under concrete that needs to be removed during the excavation. If the access requires heavy equipment and is more labor intensive, the cost of your sewer line replacement will go up. Replacing a sewer line may also require removing and replacing flooring in your home.

The Length and Distance of the Sewer Line

The cost of sewer line replacement will differ depending on the length of the section that’s being replaced, and how far it is from the city sewer system. If you need a small section replaced versus the entire sewer line, you will be looking at lower costs.

Material of Your Sewer Line

The material of your sewer line piping is another factor that will affect cost. Sewer lines in Michigan are usually either PVC or copper. PVC is less expensive than copper, and will cost less to replace. Your plumber will be able to easily determine what type of piping you have and give you an estimate accordingly.

What is the Average Cost to Replace or Repair a Sewer Line in Michigan?

The cost of sewer line repairs can vary depending on what’s causing the issue. An experienced plumber should be able to give you an accurate estimate of the sewer line replacement or repair before the work is done. The average sewer line replacement costs around $3500, and the average sewer line repair is around $2500, but the costs can vary depending on the scope of the work and can go up to $30,000 for a full replacement. Here are some average sewer line costs depending on the type of repair required:

Broken or Cracked Sewer Pipe Repair

A broken or cracked sewer line pipe is usually repaired by only replacing the affected portion. On average this repair costs around $1,100.

Tree Root Damage to Sewer Line

Tree roots can be very damaging to sewer lines. Only removing the tree roots can cost $100-600, but if they have damaged the pipes, the cost will be higher depending on the amount of damage.

Clogged Sewer Line Repair

If you notice that your toilets aren’t flushing correctly and several of your drains are clogged, you may have a clogged sewer line. There are several ways to unclog a sewer line without having to replace the pipes. Although using chemical drain uncloggers may seem like a cheap and effective option, these solutions can damage your pipes and cost you in the long run. Snaking a drain is one of the best ways to unclog a sewer line, and costs around $100-$250.

Sewer Line Replacement

The average cost of sewer line replacement in Michigan can range from $3,000 to $30,000. If it’s just a partial replacement the cost may be more in the $3,000-$5,000 range. PVC piping replacement usually costs $3-$5 per linear foot, whereas copper piping costs in the range of $10-$20 per linear foot.

Pipe Lining

Sewer pipe lining is a repair method that uses a liner to coat the interior of your sewer line pipe. The lining is used to repair and reenforce the pipe without having to replace it. Sewer pipe lining costs per foot are in the $80-$250 range.

Is Sewer Line Replacement Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

In most cases, sewer line replacement is not covered by homeowners insurance. It is important you maintain your sewer line and prevent clogs before they happen. If you have concerns about your sewer line, make sure to schedule a sewer line inspection before it’s too late.

Avoid Costly Repairs by Choosing A Trusted Plumbing Professional

A sewer line is one of the most important parts of your plumbing system. If you need sewer line repair or replacement WaterWork Plumbing can help. Did you know that in a lot of cases sewer line replacement can be avoided? The expert plumbers at WaterWork plumbing have been able to find alternative solutions and prevented costly replacement or repairs for many of our clients. When you are faced with a costly plumbing repair like a sewer line replacement always make sure to get a second opinion.

Contact us to schedule a regular appointment or call us at 248-206-3912 to reach our 24/7 emergency line. We’re here to install, repair, and maintain your Detroit home plumbing.