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Last Revised: 5/19/25
If your sewer line needs to be replaced, you’re probably wondering how long you’ll be without plumbing – and how much of your yard is about to be torn up.
Few home repairs seem as disruptive or urgent as a residential sewer line replacement, so learning about the timeline of the process is essential to planning properly
At Mattioni, we’ve spent over 75 years helping homeowners through both emergency and planned sewer line replacements, and we understand how stressful the unknowns can feel. No matter your sewer’s situation, we’re here to guide you through the timeline.
In this article, you’ll learn how long the sewer line replacement typically takes, what factors influence that timeline, and how modern technologies – like trenchless repair – can dramatically reduce disruption.
How Long Does the Average Sewer Line Replacement Take?
For most homes, sewer line replacement takes 1 to 3 days. This includes prep, excavation (or access creation), pipe replacement, and site restoration.
In some cases, the job can be completed in as little as one day. However, if the project is more complex – such as when a line runs under a driveway or tree roots have caused significant damage – it may take closer to three days. Factors such as pipe length, soil conditions, and permitting requirements also influence how long the job takes.
In emergency situations where a collapsed or severely blocked sewer line is backing up into the home, crews will work quickly, but essential steps must still be completed to ensure safety and code compliance.
3 Major Factors That Affect Sewer Line Replacement Timelines
Several key factors determine how long your sewer line replacement will take:
1. Method of Replacement: Traditional vs. Trenchless
The method of sewer replacement chosen for your home will directly influence both the duration and the disruption involved.
- Traditional excavation involves digging a trench along the length of the pipe. It’s the go-to method for collapsed pipes, severe misalignment, or when trenchless repair isn’t possible. While effective, it requires more time for digging and site restoration.
- Trenchless methods, on the other hand, offer a dramatically faster solution for many homeowners. Pipe bursting involves breaking apart the old pipe while simultaneously pulling in a new one. Pipe lining is another trenchless method that reinforces the existing pipe from within, creating a new, durable inner layer.
Trenchless options aren’t always viable. Consulting with an expert for a camera inspection is the best way to determine which replacement or repair method is right for you. At Mattioni, we don’t directly provide trenchless replacement services.
2. Site Conditions
Any landscaping, hardscaping, driveways, patios, sidewalks, or other existing conditions around the worksite can also extend the project timeline. Similarly, the soil type, slope, and depth of the existing line all impact how quickly crews can work.
For urban homes with tight lot lines, getting heavy machinery to the worksite may not be feasible. In these cases, increased manual labor extends the project timeline.
3. Permits and Inspection
Finally, permitting and inspection requirements from your local municipality can affect scheduling. Even when the physical work takes only a day or two, waiting for permits or inspection availability can extend the total project timeline.
What to Expect During the Process
From your initial call to final restoration, sewer line replacement is a carefully managed process with several key stages.
1. Initial Camera Inspection & Repair Planning
A detailed video inspection of the existing pipe is the first step, which confirms the extent of the damage and helps determine the most effective replacement method – whether trenchless or traditional – based on factors like pipe alignment, collapse severity, and surrounding structures.
2. Permitting & Scheduling
Next, your provider will handle permitting and scheduling. In some townships, obtaining any necessary permits may add a day or two to the timeline, but all logistics will usually be handled by your sewer service provider.
3. Replacement Process
Once all permits have been acquired, the replacement process can begin. Once it starts, the process tends to move quickly. For traditional jobs, a trench must be excavated to remove the old sewer line and install the new one. For trenchless jobs, access pits must be dug, and the new pipe will be pulled through and connected.
4. Testing & Restoration
In both traditional and trenchless jobs, a final inspection is conducted, and testing takes place to ensure your new sewer line functions properly. Once testing confirms success, any disturbed landscaping, driveways, or sidewalks can be restored.
Throughout your sewer line replacement process, expect clear communication from your service provider on what is happening and what will happen next. At Mattioni, we prioritize safety, cleanliness, and efficiency, so that your job is done right, right away.
Residential Sewer Line Replacement FAQs
- How long does it take to replace a sewer line?
Most replacements take 1-3 days, depending on the method of replacement and site conditions.
- Can you replace a sewer line without digging up the yard?
Yes – trenchless methods like pipe bursting and pipe lining can reduce surface disruption.
Fast, Reliable Sewer Line Replacement Starts Here
Sewer problems can feel overwhelming, but replacing your main line doesn’t have to be — with today’s technology and a skilled team, it’s often a 1-3 day process.
Knowing how the replacement method, property conditions, and permitting requirements all play a role helps you plan ahead and take your next steps with confidence. Click here to schedule a $79 camera inspection.
At Mattioni, we bring clarity to the process, precision to our work, and care to your home. Our experienced team will walk you through every step and get the job done right the first time.
If you’re experiencing sewer issues or suspect an underground issue, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call Mattioni today at (610) 400-8510 to schedule a professional inspection and find out if we can help get your home’s plumbing running like new.
