Main Sewer Line Replacement Cost for a Michigan Homeowner

The average cost to replace a main sewer line in Michigan ranges from $3,000–$30,000.

This is a very large price range, and that’s because there isn’t a way to accurately price a main sewer line replacement until a plumber comes to your home and assesses the situation.

However, we can tell you the cost to replace a main sewer line depends on a variety of factors, like:

• The length of the pipe
• The method used (conventional repipe or trenchless)
• The piping material
• The plumber you hire

Below, we’ll walk through each of these cost factors so you can get an estimate of how much it will cost to replace your main sewer line.

Want to skip straight to speaking with a professional? We’ve been serving Michigan homeowners for over 80 years, and we’d be happy to provide you with a no-strings-attached estimate for your sewer line replacement.

This may sound obvious, but the more piping you need, the more expensive your sewer line replacement will be.
If you need to replace only part of a sewer line...you will usually spend between $3,000–$5,000.

If you need to replace your entire sewer line...you will usually spend between $3,000–$30,000.
Replacing your entire sewer line is so much more expensive because of:

1. The amount of piping needed
2. Other factors like:

• Whether or not flooring needs to be removed/replaced for a plumber to replace the sewer line
• If the sewer line is hard to access (built-in structures blocking access)

Before beginning your sewer line replacement, a plumber should take time to assess the situation and inform you of whether you need to replace the entire sewer line or just a small section of it.

There are two different sewer replacement methods: conventional (trench) or trenchless.

Trenchless replacements range from $60–$280 per foot and can be more expensive than conventional replacements, which range from $60–150 per foot. However, when you add up all the cleanup work involved with a conventional replacement (landscaping, the yard being dug up. etc.), the costs can add up, increasing the overall price.

What’s the difference between trenchless and conventional?

During a conventional sewer line replacement, a plumber will excavate the sewer line (dig it up with machinery or shovels), completely remove the old sewer line and lay a new pipe in its place. During a trenchless sewer line replacement, a plumber will usually thread a new pipe through an older pipe. This method requires two small holes rather than digging up the entire pipe. A plumber will determine which method is best for replacing your sewer line, depending on the situation.

For example, you'll most likely have to use the conventional method if:

• You have a broken pipe that is offset
• There is a section of piping that is missing
• The current pipe has a belly dip

The two most common materials used for sewer line piping are PVC and copper. PVC piping is generally much less expensive than copper piping:

• PVC piping usually costs $3 to $5 per foot
• Copper piping usually costs $10 to $20 per foot

A plumber will determine which type of piping is best for your sewer line based on a few factors including your current piping material, local codes, etc.

The plumber you hire plays a huge part in the overall cost of your main sewer line replacement. The more experienced a plumber is, usually the more they will charge for service.

Plumbers usually charge more if they:

• Are licensed and insured- You can check for this on their website or the BBB
• Are highly recommended by local homeowners- Google, Facebook, the BBB
• Have many years of experience- This is usually listed on their website
• Use quality tools/ materials- Check their website or ask the company/contractor

Another factor that will affect the cost of the plumber you hire is how they charge: hourly or a flat-rate price.

With a more extensive job, like a main sewer line replacement, you probably want to find a company or contractor that will provide you with an overall upfront estimate before the job begins. This way, if the job takes longer than expected, you’re not paying for those extra hours of labor.

If you need a sewer line replacement, you shouldn’t wait to reach out to a qualified plumber. Our trained and certified plumbers are committed to providing the best service to Michigan homeowners and would be happy to give you a free estimate.