Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Repair © 2009 Robinson Plumbing, Inc. How Are Sewer Repairs Performed? First a licensed technician performs a complete diagnostic to determine whether the whole sewer line needs to be replaced or whether it's just a broke fitting that needs to be replaced, which in most instances is the problem. A section of pipe that has shifted over time- a pipe that has been damaged ("collapsed" or "sheared" over time) is the most common problem encountered. These types of problems are commonly caused by backhoe operators who over dig. If the sewer pipe does not lay flat on bed dirt then over time it will eventually crack, causing a "belly" in the pipe. In turn, the technician performs a Video Inspection- which uses a camera to pinpoint the depth, where the problem is located, and the severity of the problem. At that time they approximate the length of pipe needed to fix the problem (normally about 5 feet or less), how long it will take to fix (usually just a few hours), and agree on an agreeable cost (typically around $800). NOTE: There are some companies, from franchises- who are based on commission sales. These sewer repair sales technicians will typically recommend that the entire sewer pipe be replaced- as opposed to a Spot Repair. The difference in cost can be astronomical. How Long Does Sewer Repair Take? Typically, spot repair sewer repair takes 2-3 hours, including setup, video-in-pipe, diagnostics and performance of the repair. Full sewer pipe replacement can take days- although many jobs may be done in a day. What is the Average Cost of Sewer Repair? Typically around $800 for a spot repair. NOTE: "Trenchless" technologies are also performed, at many multiple times of the typical cost. They are used as a means of inflating sewer repair prices, and typically offer no real benefit to the consumer. Will Repairing My Sewer Tear Up My Lawn? In cases where lawn quality issues are a concern extra measures may be employed. This includes special mats, plyboard, and other measures that only experienced operators can ensure. Is Sewer Repair Dangerous? Sewer repair is dangerous in aspects of environmental damage, including stipulations enforced by local Health Departments. For instance a property can be condemned if there exists raw sewage- for potential of bacteria causing multiple deseases. In terms of the equipment used, a lot of the "Taps" are located at depths up to up 20 or more feet. This poses potential problems for ditch cave-in, in addition to worker saftey. Therefore, "Shore Boxes" and "Trench Boxes" (usually 5 feet wide) may be employed. Saftey is Always Number One!