Did you know that all of the drains in your home lead to the main sewer line, which runs from your home and connects to a city sewer line or septic tank? The sewer line is the largest drain of your home and is, therefore, very susceptible to clogs. Typical sewer line clogs are caused by a buildup of debris over time. Clogs can also occur when tree roots have penetrated the walls of the pipe.

If your sewer is backed up, it can lead to other problems in no time, including drain backups throughout the home. This is why it is so important to contact a plumber right away once you notice a problem.

IS A REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT NECESSARY?

The only way to know for certain whether your sewer line requires repair or replacement is to hire a professional plumber to complete a thorough sewer inspection. A sewer inspection is recommended for current homeowners, as well as new homeowners who are looking to purchase a used home. Being aware of any issues in your sewer line can save you time, money, and frustration down the road. Roto-Rooter plumbers use a video camera to inspect sewer lines, giving homeowners full visibility into any potential problems—they see what the plumbers see.

If damage to the sewer line is localized, plumbers will replace any damaged pipe sections using an open cut or trench. A small trench gives plumbers access to the source of the problem while minimizing damage to the surrounding yard and landscape.

In more serious cases, such as a total collapse, your plumber may need to replace the entire sewer line to prevent future problems from occurring. Investing in a replacement now can actually save you money in the long run and can also help to ensure that your sewer line works more efficiently and has fewer problems going forward.

Some plumbers recommend having your sewer line inspected twice per year, while others recommend closer to once every three years. Once your chosen plumber has inspected the area, they can advise you on how often you should have your pipes inspected going forward.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT TO PAY

Typically, a sewer line replacement can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $20,000, depending on which plumber you choose, the severity of the problem, and a number of other considerations. A repair is much more affordable and is often enough to correct the problem. During your sewer inspection, your plumber can provide an accurate estimate of what you can expect to pay for the necessary services.