Sewer Repair

Main line sewer clogs can be cleared for a fee that runs anywhere from $150 to $800, based on how bad the clog is and where it's located. If more extensive repairs are needed, or if the sewer line has to be replaced, the bill can run from $1,000 to $4,000 or more.

Absolutely, trenchless sewer repair is worth it. It is a minimally invasive technique that does not disrupt the landscaping above a pipe and is quicker and often more cost-effective than traditional methods.

Sewage backup repair costs can differ greatly based on a number of factors, including how much damage there really is, where the problem originated, and how much it supposedly should cost in your region. Most homeowners probably should expect to pay somewhere between 500 and 5000 and up. If the fix is relatively simple but serious—like clearing a huge clog in the sewer line—that cost could be on the lower end. But if "extensive repairs" are what's needed, which could involve replacing a sewer line, we're talking about a lot more money—and might be best served by getting estimates from three different professionals.

The maintenance and repair of public sewer lines that run under streets and public spaces are usually taken care of by local governments. But when it comes to the sewer lines that run from the public connection into private properties, well, the individual property owners have to step up and take care of their business. That is, unless there's a public-private partnership in place. If issues arise in the private portion of the sewer line, the property owner becomes a homeowner repair reality show star, with the bill usually coming out of the owner's pocket. Local regulations are the best first-source for knowing which side of the street you're on in this public-private partnership.

Generally, homeowners insurance does not cover damage to the sewer line itself. If it is damaged due to a peril that's covered by your policy — like a fire, vandalism, or a wayward car — then you're probably okay. But if what caused the damage is excluded from your policy, you're on your own. Insurers sometimes do offer sewer line coverage, but usually as an endorsement you have to pay extra for. When you review your policy, you should check for this coverage or ask your agent about it to know for sure if you're going to be insured when/if your sewer line damages your house.

When you call Roto-Rooter to clear your sewer line, you're paying for their expertise in dealing with severe clogs and troublesome places to work. They don't charge you by the hour; instead, they give you a flat fee estimate that usually runs between $350 and $450. For a more exact figure, you'll want to reach out to Roto-Rooter directly.

The local municipality or city government typically bears the responsibility for the primary sewer line. Property owners, however, usually have the responsibility for the sewer lateral, which is the part of the sewer line that stretches from the main line to the property owner's residence.

Sewer lines generally have a lifespan of 50 to 100 years. However, this duration can be swayed in either direction by a host of factors. Sewer pipe material is one obvious consideration, and so too is the quality of the installation. Yet, even the best pipe and the most skilled labor can't keep a sewer line functioning properly if the soil conditions around it aren't right or if maintenance practices are lax.

Sewage insurance usually costs between $50 and $150 a year, though it can be higher or lower based on a number of variables. These include the insurance provider, the coverage limits, and the insured's geographical area.

Frequent sewage backups, slow draining of several fixtures, and annoying odors suggest you might have a broken sewer line. If the grass on your lawn is greener (and that's not due to your recent lawn care), or if you're experiencing any of the following visible symptoms: sinkholes, patches of unusually moist ground, or foundation cracks, you could have a broken sewer line. And if your rodent and insect population has suddenly exploded, that might be another indicator. Increased water bills are also a suspicious indicator. When in doubt, call a pro.