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When a sewer line needs repair, the idea of digging up your yard, driveway, or sidewalk is enough to make any home or business owner nervous. Trenchless sewer repair is a modern solution that eliminates most of the digging and restores your pipes more efficiently, but how much does it cost?

In this guide, we’ll break down the average trenchless sewer repair cost, explain the different pricing factors, and compare this method to traditional sewer repair. Whether you’re facing root intrusion, pipe corrosion, or a collapsed line, understanding your options (and their price tags) can help you make a smart, stress-free decision.

What Is the Average Trenchless Sewer Repair Cost?

Trenchless sewer repair can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000+, depending on the method used, the length of the pipe, location, depth, and condition of your existing line. Compared to traditional repair, which can cost even more when factoring in landscaping and concrete restoration, trenchless options often provide long-term value and quicker turnaround.

There are two common types of trenchless sewer repair:

• Pipe lining (Cured-in-Place Pipe or CIPP): A felt liner saturated in a two-part epoxy is inserted into the damaged pipe, then inflated and cured to form a new pipe inside the old one.
• Pipe bursting: The old pipe is broken apart while a new pipe is pulled through to replace it.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs involved, and how the costs compare to traditional sewer repairs with excavation: 

Trenchless Sewer Repair Cost
Repair Method	Cost Per Linear Foot	Typical Project Range	Best For
CIPP Lining (2-4″)	$100 – $2501	$2,400 – $4,5001	Residential drain lines, minor to moderate damage
CIPP Lining (6-8″)	$125 – $3001	$3,600 – $6,0001	Main sewer lines
Pipe Bursting (4-6″)	$80 – $2001	$3,000 – $20,0001	Severely damaged pipes
Point Repairs	$150 – $2502	$3,000 – $6,0002	Localized damage
Traditional Excavation	$150 – $4003	$4,500 – $20,000+3	The pipe is fully collapsed, or CIPP isn’t an option

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What Affects the Cost of Trenchless Sewer Repair?

Just like any plumbing project, trenchless sewer repair prices vary based on a range of different factors. Here are the most common:

Length and Diameter of the Pipe

Naturally, the longer the stretch of pipe that needs repair or replacement, the higher the cost. In addition to pipe length, diameter also plays a role in the overall cost. Larger-diameter pipes may require more expensive materials and specialized equipment.

Type of Repair Needed

Spot repairs will naturally be less expensive than full-line replacements. Pipe lining is usually less costly than pipe bursting, but it may not be possible if the pipe is completely collapsed.

Accessibility

If access points already exist (like cleanouts), the job is quicker and more affordable. If technicians need to dig new access points, expect additional labor costs.

Depth and Location

Pipes buried deeper underground may be harder to reach, which can increase labor time and price. Also, pipes under driveways or near tree roots may require more preparation and care, which usually increases costs.

Pipe Condition and Material

Pipes that are heavily corroded or collapsed may not be suitable for lining or other trenchless methods and will instead require conventional replacement.Certain older materials (like clay or Orangeburg) may influence the repair approach and cost.

Local Labor Rates

Your location is one of the biggest influencers when it comes to pricing, as labor costs vary significantly by region. Sewer repairs in cities and large urban areas with higher labor costs will likely be more expensive than in rural locations.

Is Trenchless Sewer Repair Cheaper than Traditional Methods?

Although it always depends on the specific project, a quote for trenchless sewer repair may be higher than a quote for repairs performed using traditional excavation methods. However, traditional methods often come with hidden and indirect costs that can increase the total price, including: 

Property Damage and Costly Repairs 

With traditional sewer repair, heavy machinery digs up long trenches through lawns, gardens, driveways, patios, sidewalks, and even floors. After the pipe is repaired or replaced, the resulting mess may cost you thousands of dollars to restore. 

Trenchless repair avoids most of this damage by using small access points, meaning your landscaping, concrete, and flooring remain mostly untouched.

Longer Project Timelines

Excavation-based repairs can take days or even weeks to complete. In contrast, many trenchless jobs take just one or two days. A shorter project timeline means less time without functioning plumbing, fewer days of paying for a hotel stay, and reduced labor costs. With trenchless lining methods you can stay right where you are—enjoying the comfort of your home and still able to use your water and restrooms at the end of each workday 

Durability Differences

Depending on your location, trenchless technology can last 50 years. Fewer joints and modern materials reduce the chance of future leaks, root intrusions, and repairs. Over time, this can save thousands in maintenance and additional fixes.

Contact Us for Reliable Repairs and Transparent Pricing

If you’re facing a damaged sewer line, trenchless repair may be a faster and cleaner alternative to traditional methods. The overall trenchless sewer repair cost is usually lower than traditional methods, but it’s essential to first verify (via professional camera inspection) that your pipes are suitable for trenchless repair.  

As experts in trenchless sewer repair, you can rely on Pipe Restoration Solutions for honest, transparent evaluations and estimates. Our dedicated team has over 30 years of industry experience and serves both residential and commercial clients nationwide.

Contact our experts today to discuss fast, durable, and affordable trenchless sewer repair for your property. 

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