Broken sewer pipes can come out of nowhere, despite preventative measures being in place beforehand. Eventually, regular wear and tear can cause sewer pipes to crack and break. Here’s everything you need to know about sewer pipe repair so that you can always look out for the signs of a broken sewer system and act fast to prevent further plumbing issues from occurring.
Signs of a Broken Sewer Pipe
Here are some signs to look out for:
- Mold
- Mildew
- Slow drains
- Soggy lawn
- Broken slabs
- Recurring clogs
- Cracks in the walls
- Abnormal foul odors
- Insect or rodent infestation
If you are experiencing any of these signs, you likely have a broken sewer pipe that needs attention immediately. Professional plumbers can handle this job, but it can be hard to gauge how much a project like this could cost. Let’s dive into the logistics.
Factors that Affect Broken Sewer Pipe Repair Cost
1. Type of Piping
Typically, common materials used in traditional sewer pipes include PEX or copper. PEX is a type of plastic that can conserve energy since it has heat retaining properties. Traditional broken sewer pipe repair will cost between $50-$200 per square foot.
2. Removing Pipes
Sometimes with broken sewer pipes, you might have to remove the current pipes and replace them. This can drastically increase the cost, since you might have to hammer through and remove drywall as well.
3. Size of the Damage
The smaller the area that needs to be replaced, the lower the cost will be. If the area is less than 10 feet, you might be able to keep costs under $5,000. If you need a full sewer line replacement, the cost may climb up to $30,000 or more.
Does Insurance Cover the Damages?
If you have homeowner’s insurance, you might qualify for coverage, but it depends. Usually, they will evaluate the damages based on the cause of the broken sewer pipe. If there is an issue due to lack of regular maintenance, your insurance may not cover it. But, if there is an accident, they will likely cover the costs. This will depend on the specific type of insurance that you have.
Determining the Costs
Dealing with broken sewer pipes can be stressful especially when considering the unspecified costs. So how much does it cost to repair a busted pipe? When looking at the signs of a broken sewer pipe and the factors that are involved with repairing it, an estimated range may still be difficult to determine until a technician has properly assessed the project.
If you are in need of repair on your broken sewer pipe, or you suspect that there might be an underlying issue, call the professionals at Pristine Plumbing to help you out! In the Orange County area, Pristine Plumbing is available 24/7 to service your home and help with all plumbing needs. Call for a free inspection today!
