How Much Does a Sewer Line Repair Cost in Denver?

Repairing a sewer line in Colorado can be a significant expense. The actual cost can vary depending on several factors, but we've included a list below to help you understand what can affect the final bill.

Here are the main factors that influence sewer line repair costs:

1. Camera inspections prior to repair
2. Length of line
3. Location of the problem
4. Trenchless vs traditional
5. Clean up
6. Labor fees

Factor #1: A camera inspection

A camera inspection isn’t necessary for all sewer repairs. But if the plumber can’t see the clog from the access point, they’ll most likely recommend one.

A camera inspection can be an additional cost. But here’s the good news: A camera inspection will ultimately cut down on the cost of your sewer line repair.

Here’s why: When a professional performs a camera inspection, they run a camera on the end of a long cable through your sewer pipe. This helps them quickly:

• Locate the problem area 
• Determine the exact problem (burst pipe, tree roots, etc.)
• Determine the material of your pipe

View from a camera sewer inspection.

Factor #2: Length of line

If part of your sewer pipe needs to be replaced, you’ll have to pay per foot for the material and labor to replace it. Usually, the material of your pipe dictates how much you’ll pay per foot. 

• Higher cost pipe materials include: iron, steel, copper
• Lower cost pipe materials include: PVC, concrete

Factor #3: Location of the problem

If the problem is in a hard-to-reach area, this increases the time, labor and tools your contractor needs to use.

For example, if the problem area is located directly under your paved driveway or under the concrete slab of your home, the contractor will need to use special tools to break up the concrete. The additional time and expensive machinery needed for this job will raise the overall cost of the project.

Factor #4: Traditional vs trenchless

Most of the time, trenchless sewer repairs are less expensive than traditional sewer repairs. That’s because, with trenchless repair, contractors don’t have to spend hours digging up your entire lawn (which also means clean-up costs are reduced drastically as well).

2 of the most common trenchless practices are:

1. Pipe bursting. This involves running a cable with a “bursting head” attached to the front through the pipe. The bursting head breaks up the old, damaged pipe while pulling a new pipe to take its place.
2. Pipe lining. This involves pulling a fiberglass resin “cast” through the middle of the existing, damaged pipe. This is the preferred technique when the area of the pipe that needs repair is very small.

Factor #5: Clean up

If trenchless sewer repair isn’t an option, you’ll likely spend a significant amount of money on clean-up costs and landscaping.

Examples of some clean-up costs you may encounter include:

• Replacing or rebuilding the yard, garden or driveway
• Flood/water damage from broken pipes
• Replacing structures (sheds, fences, patio, etc.)

Factor #6: Labor fees

Typically, higher quality contractors charge more for sewer repair. But don’t let a higher price deter you from choosing a qualified, experienced contractor.

You see, sewer repairs are costly. But a sewer repair done poorly will cost you a lot more money in the long run and can put the safety of your family and home in jeopardy. 

So, when choosing your contractor, make sure you go with a professional who:

• Is licensed and insured in the state of Colorado
• Doesn’t have any complaints filed with the Better Bureau Business
• Is trained and experienced specifically in sewer repairs
• Offers a detailed quote in writing