How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Sewer Line In Florida?

June 10, 2018

Think you may need to replace your sewer line? Wondering how much that will cost when all is said and done?

The cost to replace a sewer line in Florida ranges from $3,000 to $30,000.

We know what you’re wondering: Where the heck will my sewer line replacement fall within that range?

Unfortunately, it’s impossible to tell without inspecting your home and knowing more about your sewer line. But to help you prepare, we’ll explain the factors that will affect your overall sewer replacement cost.

The factors that will affect your sewer line replacement price include:

1. The sewer replacement method used
2. The length and depth of your existing pipe
3. Your replacement pipe material
4. The professional you choose

Let’s take a closer look at those 4 cost factors.

 

Cost factor #1: The sewer replacement method used

Florida homeowners have 2 options when it comes to sewer replacement methods:

1. Conventional
   
2. Trenchless
   

Typically, the trenchless sewer replacement method costs more.

For example...

• Conventional sewer replacements cost anywhere from $60 to $150 per foot.
  
• Trenchless sewer replacements cost anywhere from $60 to $280 per foot.
  

So, what’s the difference between the two methods? Well, conventional replacements require complete “excavation” of the sewer line (i.e., digging up the line using shovels or machinery). Once the sewer line is exposed, it’s lifted from the ground and removed completely before the new pipe is laid in its place.

Trenchless replacements, on the other hand, require minimal excavation and usually involves pulling a new pipe into place using just two holes. The most typical trenchless method involves pulling a new pipe through the older pipe.

But remember you won’t always have a choice in which sewer line replacement method is used. For example, situations that require the conventional replacement method include:

• A broken pipe that severely offset
  
• A section of the sewer line is missing
  
• The old pipe has a deep belly dip
  

Cost factor #2: The length of the pipe that needs to be replaced

The longer the length of line that needs to be replaced, the more expensive the job.

In Florida, the length of pipe that needs to be replaced depends on which of the 2 following kinds of replacements you need:

Replacement of the sewer line from the house to the municipal sewer system (at street)

This requires replacing only a section of the sewer line and typically costs anywhere from $3,000—$5,000.

Replacement of the sewer line from underneath the home to the municipal sewer system.

This requires replacing the entire sewer line and typically costs anywhere from $3,000—$30,000.

The factors that affect the cost of this kind of sewer replacement include:

• How much concrete floor needs to be removed and replaced to access the sewer line
  
• How many built-in structures in the home are blocking access to the sewer line (i.e., kitchen islands, floor drains, etc.)
  
• The number of bathrooms in the home
  

Cost factor #3: Your replacement pipe material

The 2 most common materials used in Florida for replacement sewer lines are:

1. Copper
   
2. PVC
   

Copper is typically much more expensive than PVC piping. Typically, the average costs for both pipe types are:

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

Note: The prices above do not include the cost of labor and additional materials.

Not sure what replacement pipe material to choose? Just ask a professional to determine the best option for your Florida home.

Cost factor #4: The professional you choose

Not all professionals will charge the same to replace a sewer line. In fact, you could see a difference of up to $3,000—$5,000 when you start getting quotes from different companies.

So why might one plumber charge more than another for the same sewer line replacement? Well, the biggest factor is experience/skill. Typically, higher-quality plumbers who have tons of experience in sewer line replacements will charge more.

But don’t assume that just because a plumber charges more than another that they’re automatically more qualified for the job. Instead, check that the higher-priced plumbers are also:

• Licensed and insured in the state of Florida
  
• Have at least 10 years of experience in sewer line repairs/replacements
  
• Can provide several references from past sewer line replacement customers
  
• Can offer both conventional and trenchless replacement options
  
• Provide upfront estimates in writing
  
• Have a solid reputation in the area (start by checking their online reviews on Yelp, Google+, BBB, etc.)
  

Related reading:

• How Much Does a Sewer Line Inspection Cost in Florida?
• 3 Signs Your Sewer Line is Clogged