If you’ve been told you need sewer line replacement, your first question is probably “how much will this cost?” Here’s a comprehensive guide to sewer line replacement costs in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Average Costs in the Bay Area
| Service | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Spot repair (small section) | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Pipe lining (trenchless) | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| Pipe bursting (trenchless) | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Traditional replacement | $10,000 – $25,000 |
| Complex replacement (deep, long, obstacles) | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
Factors That Affect Cost
Length of Sewer Line
A typical residential sewer lateral is 30-100 feet. Longer lines cost more to replace.
Depth
Deeper pipes require more excavation. San Francisco hills can mean sewer lines are 6-15+ feet deep.
Access and Obstacles
Lines under driveways, patios, mature trees, or buildings cost more due to restoration and working around obstacles.
Method Used
Trenchless methods (lining and bursting) often cost more upfront but save on landscape restoration.
Permits
San Francisco requires permits for sewer work, adding $500-$1,500 to the project.
Trenchless vs Traditional
Choose trenchless if:
- Your pipe is mostly intact (just cracked or root-invaded)
- You have expensive landscaping to preserve
- The line runs under a driveway or patio
Choose traditional if:
- The pipe has completely collapsed
- The line has severe bellies or offsets
- Trenchless isn’t possible due to pipe condition
Getting an Accurate Estimate
Always get a camera inspection before accepting any estimate. This shows the exact condition, length, and depth of your sewer line so you can compare quotes accurately.
Need a sewer line estimate? Call (510) 485-9113 for a free camera inspection and quote.
Need Professional Help?
If DIY methods aren't working, our licensed plumbers are available 24/7 for emergency drain and sewer service throughout San Francisco.