How Long Does a Sewer Line Replacement Take?

Sewer Repair Timeline by Method

Every sewer line repair project starts with the same question: how bad is it, and how long will fixing it take? Here's what to expect at each stage.

Camera Inspection: Same Day

Before any repair, a camera inspection is typically completed in 30 minutes to an hour, giving you and the plumber a clear picture of what repair method is needed.

Spot Repair: 1 Day

For localized damage, excavation, pipe replacement, and backfill are usually completed within a single day, assuming the damaged section is at a reasonable depth and accessible location.

Trenchless Lining: 1 – 2 Days

Day one typically involves cleaning and prepping the existing pipe (removing roots, scale, and debris) so the liner can adhere properly. Day two involves inserting, inflating, and curing the liner, followed by a final camera inspection to confirm the seal.

Full Replacement: 2 – 5 Days

Full lateral replacement involves excavating the entire pipe run, removing the old pipe, laying new pipe, backfilling, compacting, and restoring the surface (landscaping, driveway, or hardscaping). Longer laterals, deeper trenches, and more extensive surface restoration all add time. Utility locate services (required before digging) can add a day or two to the front end of the timeline if not already scheduled.

Factors That Can Extend the Timeline

Permit processing time with the City of Kirkland, weather delays for excavation work, discovering additional damage once the pipe is exposed, and coordinating utility locates all have the potential to add days to the initial estimate. This is especially common in older neighborhoods like Downtown Kirkland and Houghton, where original clay laterals often reveal more than one problem area. A good plumber communicates realistic timelines upfront and updates you if conditions change.

Serving These Areas