Sewer repair contractors: 7 Essential Tips for Smart Choices 2025
When Disaster Strikes Underground: Finding the Right Sewer Repair Solution
That moment when you detect the unmistakable sewer smell wafting through your home or notice multiple drains backing up at once is enough to make any homeowner’s heart sink. Underground sewer issues aren’t just inconvenient—they can quickly escalate into full-blown disasters that threaten your property, health, and wallet.
Sewer repair contractors are the specialized heroes you need in these situations. These licensed professionals diagnose, repair, and replace damaged sewer lines using everything from traditional excavation to cutting-edge trenchless technologies. Think of them as underground problem-solvers with the tools and expertise most homeowners simply don’t have.
Most sewer lines should last between 30-100 years depending on what they’re made of. But Mother Nature has other plans sometimes. Tree roots with their uncanny ability to find the smallest crack, shifting ground, and simply the march of time can all cause premature failures. Many neighborhoods built before 1950 still have their original clay or Orangeburg pipes quietly deteriorating beneath well-manicured lawns.
“When a sewer pipe from your home or commercial building breaks or needs replacing, it’s not a job you want to take on yourself,” as one industry expert puts it. “Some things are just better left to the pros, and dealing with sewer pipes is definitely one of those things.” Truer words were never spoken!
Finding the right contractor for your sewer crisis can mean the difference between solving the problem once or facing a recurring nightmare. Professional sewer repair contractors bring specialized equipment like video inspection cameras that can pinpoint exactly what’s happening underground without turning your yard into an archaeological dig site. This technology alone can save you thousands in unnecessary repairs.
When it comes to cost, be prepared: sewer line replacement typically runs between $50-$250 per linear foot. Most homeowners end up spending between $2,000-$10,000 for a complete repair. Yes, that’s a significant chunk of change, but modern trenchless technologies often reduce costs by minimizing excavation and the heartbreak of destroyed landscaping.
To find reliable sewer repair contractors, follow these essential steps:
First, verify credentials by ensuring they’re licensed, bonded, and insured with specialty excavation coverage. Then compare methods by asking about both trenchless options and traditional digging to understand which approach makes sense for your situation. Always get detailed estimates in writing from at least three contractors, and make sure they’re itemized so you can compare apples to apples. Don’t skip checking reviews online and requesting references from past clients who had similar work done. Finally, confirm warranty details to ensure both labor and materials are covered for at least one year.
For homeowners wanting to understand the technical terms sewer repair contractors might use, familiarize yourself with concepts like main line plumbing repair, trenchless sewer lateral replacement, and sewer line maintenance. A little knowledge goes a long way when discussing options with professionals.
When disaster strikes underground, having the right repair team on your side makes all the difference between a quick resolution and a prolonged plumbing nightmare.
What Does a Sewer Repair Contractor Do?
When your home’s plumbing takes a turn for the worse below ground, you need more than just a general plumber – you need a specialist. Sewer repair contractors are the underground heroes who tackle the messy, complex world of sewer systems when regular plumbers might be out of their depth.
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, our sewer specialists come equipped with an impressive arsenal of specialized tools that most homeowners have never even seen. We bring high-resolution sewer cameras that can snake hundreds of feet through your pipes, powerful hydro-jetting equipment that makes short work of even the most stubborn blockages, and cutting-edge trenchless technology that can repair your pipes without turning your yard into a construction zone.
“Most average plumbers recommend dig & replace because that’s all they know,” as one industry expert puts it. It’s like taking your car to a mechanic who only knows how to replace engines – sometimes you need someone with more specialized knowledge and a broader toolkit.
When disaster strikes underground, our teams arrive with not just equipment, but with emergency response training that prepares them for everything from minor clogs to major collapses. And yes, we’re available 24/7 because sewer emergencies rarely happen at convenient times.
Core Services Breakdown
The work of sewer repair contractors goes far beyond just fixing broken pipes. Think of us as underground detectives and surgeons combined.
We start with thorough inspections, using specialized cameras to see exactly what’s happening inside your pipes without any guesswork. No more digging up your entire yard to find a single crack!
For maintenance, our hydro-jetting equipment blasts away years of buildup that regular snaking can’t touch. We can install clean-outs to make future maintenance a breeze, and our leak detection technology can pinpoint problems with remarkable precision.
When it comes to repairs, we offer both traditional excavation when necessary and modern trenchless solutions that can save your landscaping. Pipe lining (CIPP) creates a new pipe within your old one, while pipe bursting replaces the line completely – both with minimal digging.
Need more details about what we can do for your specific situation? Check out our comprehensive Plumbing and Sewer Repair guide.
When Businesses vs. Homeowners Need Help
Your home and the local restaurant down the street might both have sewer problems, but they’re rarely identical issues.
For businesses, sewer concerns take on different dimensions. Commercial properties typically need systems built for higher volume and often require specialized installations like grease traps to handle restaurant waste. The permitting process gets more complex, and timing becomes critical – which is why we often perform commercial repairs overnight.
“Business sewer replacements can be scheduled overnight to minimize operational downtime,” as one of our commercial specialists likes to point out. After all, every hour a business can’t operate means lost revenue.
Homeowners, on the other hand, typically deal with different challenges. Your main concerns likely revolve around your sewer lateral – that’s the line connecting your home to the municipal system. You’re more likely to battle tree roots from that beautiful oak in your front yard, and if you live in an older neighborhood, you might be dealing with historical pipes made from materials that haven’t been used in decades.
Whether you run a busy restaurant in Riverside or own a family home in Upland, AS Plumbing and Mechanical brings the right expertise, equipment, and approach to solve your specific sewer challenges. We understand that commercial and residential needs differ, and we’ve built our service offerings to address both effectively.
Signs You Need to Call the Pros
Your home’s sewer system works silently underground—until something goes wrong. Knowing when to call sewer repair contractors can save you from costly damage and health hazards.
That foul smell wafting through your home? It’s not just unpleasant—it’s your sewer line sending you an SOS. When multiple drains throughout your house start moving at a snail’s pace, your main line likely has issues rather than individual pipes. Those strange gurgling noises from your toilet when you run the sink? That’s trapped air signaling a blockage somewhere in your system.
Perhaps the most obvious sign is the nightmare scenario every homeowner dreads: sewage backing up into tubs, showers, or floor drains. This isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a serious health hazard requiring immediate professional attention.
Your yard can tell tales about your sewer line too. As one of our technicians often says, “Greener grass isn’t always good—it might be your sewer giving it ‘extra love.'” Those unusually lush patches of lawn are essentially being fertilized by leaking sewage. Even more concerning are sinkholes or indentations appearing in your yard, which indicate soil being washed away by underground leaks.
When sewer problems persist, they can even compromise your home’s foundation, leading to cracks or uneven settling. And if you’ve noticed an uptick in unwelcome pests, they might be attracted to your leaking sewer line—rodents and insects have an unfortunate knack for finding these hidden problems before humans do.
Early Warning Indicators
Before a complete sewer failure occurs, your system often sends subtle signals. Pay attention to recurring clogs that happen despite normal usage—this suggests your sewer line may be narrowing due to buildup or damage. Even faint, occasional sewer odors shouldn’t be ignored, as they indicate a breach somewhere in the system.
Check your water bill for unexplained increases, which could reveal an underground leak you can’t see. Mold growth in basements or along walls near plumbing could indicate persistent moisture from leaking pipes. Keep an eye on your lawn, driveway, or patio for unusual settling, cracking, or moisture that might signal problems beneath the surface.
Red-Alert Emergencies Requiring Sewer Repair Contractors
Some sewer situations can’t wait for a scheduled appointment—they need immediate attention from sewer repair contractors:
Raw sewage in your home creates an immediate health hazard requiring emergency service. When multiple fixtures back up simultaneously, it typically indicates a main line blockage or collapse. Foundation damage from sewer issues can compromise your home’s structural integrity if not addressed quickly. The appearance of sinkholes in your yard suggests significant underground erosion, possibly from a long-term sewer leak. Standing sewage in your yard or basement isn’t just disgusting—it’s dangerous and needs professional intervention right away.
As Annie K., one of our satisfied customers, shared after experiencing a sewer emergency: “They stayed late until the job was finished and were very professional throughout the process. We are very happy for their help and continuing help to get us back to normal after this setback.”
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we understand that sewer emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we provide 24/7 emergency sewer repair services throughout Upland, Riverside, and surrounding areas. Our rapid response team can be at your door quickly to mitigate damage and begin repairs when you need us most.
Comparing Repair Methods: Traditional Dig & Replace vs. Trenchless Technologies
When your sewer line fails, you’re faced with an important choice: go with the traditional excavation method that’s been around for generations, or accept newer trenchless technologies. As experienced sewer repair contractors, we’ve seen how this decision impacts not just your wallet, but your property and peace of mind.
Traditional Dig & Replace
The conventional approach to sewer repair hasn’t changed much over the decades. It’s straightforward but invasive – we dig a trench along your sewer line, remove the damaged pipe, install new piping, then fill everything back in.
Think of traditional excavation as open-heart surgery for your property. It gives us complete visual access to assess every inch of pipe and surrounding soil conditions. For some homeowners with completely collapsed lines or severely damaged systems, this approach remains necessary.
But there’s a reason many of our customers wince when we mention excavation. Your beautiful landscaping? That garden you’ve nurtured for years? Your driveway or patio? All potentially sacrificed during the dig. Plus, you’re looking at a longer project timeline – typically 3-5 days of construction equipment in your yard, with additional time for restoration afterward.
As Frank, one of our Riverside customers, put it: “The thought of my wife’s rose garden being destroyed nearly gave me a heart attack. I was so relieved when they told me there was another way.”
Trenchless Sewer Repair 101
Modern trenchless technology has been a game-changer in our industry. Imagine fixing your underground pipes while leaving your yard, driveway, and landscaping virtually untouched – that’s the trenchless promise.
“Trenchless pipelining can repair broken sewer pipes from above ground, preserving landscaping and infrastructure,” as my colleague often explains to relieved homeowners.
The two main approaches we use at AS Plumbing and Mechanical are:
CIPP (Cured-In-Place Pipe) Lining creates a “pipe within a pipe” by inserting a resin-saturated liner into your existing pipe, then inflating and curing it until it hardens. The result? A seamless, jointless new pipe that seals cracks and restores flow. The best part? Your pipe diameter typically shrinks by only about ¼ inch.
Pipe Bursting is perfect when your pipe needs complete replacement. We pull a bursting head through the existing pipe, breaking it outward while simultaneously pulling a brand-new pipe into place. This method even allows us to install a larger diameter pipe if needed.
Beyond these main approaches, we also offer specialized solutions like slip-lining and spray-lining depending on your specific situation. You can learn more about these innovative techniques on our Trenchless Sewer Line Repair and Trenchless Sewer Repair pages.
Many of our Upland customers are amazed when they visit Fix Your Sewer With Perma-Lateral and see these technologies in action.
Traditional vs. Trenchless Comparison
| Factor | Traditional Excavation | Trenchless Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per foot | $50-$250 | $60-$200 |
| Project timeline | 3-5 days | 1-2 days |
| Landscape disruption | Extensive | Minimal (access points only) |
| Driveway/patio impact | Often requires breaking/replacing | Usually preserved intact |
| Permit complexity | More extensive | Often simpler |
| Equipment needs | Excavators, backhoes | Specialized trenchless equipment |
| Warranty | Typically 1-5 years | Often 10-50 years |
| Best for | Completely collapsed pipes, major realignments | Most repairs and replacements in structurally intact pipes |
Drawbacks & Limitations to Consider
While we’re big fans of trenchless technology, we always give our customers the full picture. Trenchless methods aren’t magic – they come with their own set of limitations.
The upfront equipment costs can be higher, though this is often balanced out by the money you’ll save on landscape restoration. Not every pipe is a candidate for trenchless repair – if your line has completely collapsed or has severe misalignments, traditional digging might be your only option.
Your existing pipe also needs enough structural integrity to host the lining. Pipes with multiple sharp bends or significant diameter changes can pose challenges for trenchless methods. And while we won’t need to dig up your entire yard, we’ll still need to create access points at strategic locations.
Maria from Riverside shared her experience: “I was worried about my 100-year-old home’s pipes being too damaged for trenchless repair, but the technicians found a perfect solution after their camera inspection. They even showed me the video of roots they removed from the line. Now I can flush without fear!”
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we offer both traditional and trenchless repair options because we believe in tailoring our approach to your specific situation. Unlike some sewer repair contractors who only offer the method they’re equipped for, we’ll honestly assess which approach makes the most sense for your property, timeline, and budget.
Cost, Timeline & Responsibility
Let’s talk money, time, and who’s footing the bill for your sewer repairs. When that underground pipe gives you trouble, understanding these factors helps prevent sticker shock and unnecessary stress.
The price tag for sewer work varies widely based on your specific situation:
Most homeowners spend between $2,000-$10,000 for a complete sewer line replacement, with costs running $50-$250 per linear foot depending on depth, accessibility, and repair method. If you’re lucky enough to just need a simple drain cleaning, you might get away with $110-$800, while a more involved main line unclogging could run up to $3,100 for severe blockages.
“Trenchless sewer line replacements take much less time to complete than manually digging trenches,” as industry experts often point out. This time-saving approach not only minimizes disruption but often reduces overall project costs despite potentially higher upfront equipment expenses.
Your repair timeline typically follows this pattern: same-day camera inspection and diagnosis, 1-3 days for permits (if needed), 1-2 days for trenchless repairs or 3-5 days for traditional excavation, and 1-2 additional days for complete restoration of your property.
Several factors can significantly impact both your final cost and project timeline:
– How deep your pipes are buried and how easily we can access them
– The material and current condition of your existing pipes
– How much pipe actually needs repair or replacement
– Obstacles like tree roots, utilities, or underground structures
– Local permit requirements (which vary by municipality)
– Soil conditions and presence of groundwater
– Restoration needs for your landscaping or hardscaping
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we provide detailed, transparent estimates that account for these variables, so you won’t face surprise charges halfway through your project.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewer Work?
This question comes up in almost every conversation about sewer repair contractors, and unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
Standard homeowners insurance typically covers sudden, accidental damage like burst pipes or sewage backups that damage your home’s interior. However, most policies explicitly exclude damage from gradual deterioration, tree root intrusion, or normal wear and tear of your sewer line.
As one insurance expert puts it, “Policies vary; most cover accidental or vandalism damage but not wear and tear; separate sewer line insurance is available.”
If you’re concerned about potential sewer issues, consider these options:
Sewer line endorsements can be added to your existing homeowners policy for approximately $25-$125 annually. These add-ons specifically cover your external sewer lines, though coverage limits and deductibles apply.
Separate warranty plans from various providers offer dedicated sewer line coverage for about $100-$300 per year. Before purchasing, carefully review what’s covered, as exclusions and limitations vary significantly between providers.
We recommend reviewing your insurance policy before problems arise. When you work with AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we provide detailed documentation of our inspections and repairs to support your insurance claims whenever possible.
Who Pays—You or the City?
The invisible line of responsibility for sewer repairs often causes confusion and frustration for property owners.
In most municipalities, homeowners are responsible for the lateral line running from their house to the property line or main connection point, while the city handles main sewer lines under public streets.
“Homeowners are generally responsible for sewer pipe repairs up to the main line, while municipalities cover main-line issues,” as sewer specialists commonly explain.
But here’s where it gets tricky: in some areas, your responsibility might extend all the way to the connection with the main sewer line, even if that connection sits under a public street or sidewalk. This extended responsibility can significantly increase both the complexity and cost of your repairs.
Before we begin any sewer repair work, we strongly recommend:
- Contacting your local water/sewer authority to confirm exactly where your responsibility begins and ends
- Checking whether your municipality offers any assistance programs for residential sewer repairs
- Calling 811 to have all utilities marked before any excavation begins
- Determining if permits are required for your specific repair situation
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we help steer these jurisdictional issues for our customers throughout Upland, Riverside, and surrounding communities. We’ll work with local authorities to ensure all work complies with regulations while advocating for your interests throughout the process.
For more detailed information about costs specific to pipe lining, visit our Sewer Pipe Lining Cost page.
How to Vet and Choose the Best Sewer Repair Contractors
Finding the right sewer repair contractor isn’t just about getting the lowest price—it’s about finding someone you can trust with what might be one of the most significant repairs your home will ever need. Your choice here can mean the difference between a lasting solution and years of recurring headaches.
Essential Verification Steps
When Sarah from Riverside finded her sewer line had collapsed, she didn’t know where to turn. “I panicked and almost hired the first company that answered the phone,” she told us. “Thankfully, my neighbor suggested I take a breath and do some homework first.”
That homework should always start with licensing verification. In California, legitimate sewer repair contractors must hold either a C-36 Plumbing Contractor license or a C-42 Sanitation System Contractor license. Don’t just take their word for it—check their status yourself through the California State License Board website. It takes just minutes and can save you thousands in potential problems.
Insurance matters just as much as licensing. “Sewer contractors must carry specialty insurance that explicitly covers excavation,” warns Mike, a claims adjuster who’s seen too many homeowners left with uncovered damages. Standard plumbing insurance often excludes excavation work, so ask to see certificates specifically mentioning sewer and excavation coverage.
Experience speaks volumes in this industry. Look for contractors who have at least 5+ years of specific sewer repair experience—not just general plumbing. The underground world of sewer repair requires specialized knowledge that only comes with time and training.
When you receive estimates, pay attention to the details. Professional sewer repair contractors provide itemized written estimates breaking down labor, materials, equipment costs, specific repair methods, timelines, potential contingencies, cleanup details, and warranty information. If you’re handed a vague one-page estimate with a single number, that’s a red flag.
Contract clarity protects everyone involved. Your contract should define the exact scope of work (with specific start and end points), payment terms, change order procedures, cleanup responsibilities, and warranty details. As one industry veteran notes, “If a sewer contractor refuses to provide a written contract, you should look elsewhere.”
Questions to Ask Sewer Repair Contractors
When John and Mary in Upland interviewed potential contractors for their sewer line replacement, they created a checklist of questions that saved them considerable money and stress. Consider asking:
“How many years have you specialized specifically in sewer repair?” Look for contractors with at least 5 years of focused sewer experience, not just general plumbing work.
“What repair methods do you recommend for my situation and why?” Good contractors explain multiple options with pros and cons, not just push one approach.
“Do you use camera inspections before and after repairs?” This should be standard practice to document the before and after conditions of your line.
“What is your estimated timeline from start to finish?” Get specific day-by-day expectations so you can plan accordingly.
“How will you protect my property during repairs?” They should have clear protocols for minimizing damage to your landscaping and hardscaping.
“Does your quote include cleanup and restoration?” The last thing you want is a perfectly repaired sewer line but a yard that looks like a disaster zone.
“What warranty do you offer on labor and materials?” Look for at least a one-year warranty on labor, and longer on materials.
“Do you handle permits and utility marking?” Professional sewer repair contractors should manage this process for you, including calling 811 before digging.
“Do you use subcontractors, and if so, are they licensed and insured?” Know exactly who will be working on your property.
“Do you offer financing options?” Important for unexpected repairs that weren’t in your budget.
For more guidance on what to expect during the inspection process, visit our Sewer Line Inspection page.
Where to Find Trusted Sewer Repair Contractors Near You
The search for quality sewer repair contractors begins with gathering multiple perspectives. Always obtain at least three detailed quotes—not just for price comparison, but to understand different approaches to solving your problem.
Online reviews can provide valuable insights, but look beyond star ratings. Read the specific experiences people share on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Pay special attention to how contractors responded to any negative reviews.
Verify credentials using your state’s contractor license verification system. This simple step weeds out unlicensed operators who might disappear after taking your deposit.
Don’t be shy about asking for references from recent customers with similar repair needs. Reputable contractors are proud of their work and happy to connect you with satisfied customers.
Specialized directories like Locate a Sewer Repair Contractor can help find pre-screened specialists who focus specifically on sewer work.
Your neighbors can be an excellent resource too. Check Nextdoor and local community groups for recommendations based on real-world experiences in your area.
Sometimes your local building department maintains lists of licensed contractors who regularly pull permits in your area—a good sign of legitimate operations.
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we’ve built our reputation throughout Upland, Riverside, and surrounding communities on transparency and quality workmanship. We encourage potential customers to verify our credentials, read our reviews, and speak with our references before making their decision. When it comes to something as important as your home’s sewer system, we believe you deserve complete confidence in your contractor choice.
What to Expect During the Repair Process
Let’s walk through what happens when you hire sewer repair contractors to fix your underground problem. Knowing what’s ahead can help ease those understandable nerves about having major work done on your property.
When you work with us at AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we believe in making the repair process as transparent and stress-free as possible. Here’s the journey your sewer repair will take from start to finish:
Initial Assessment and Diagnosis
First things first – we need to see what’s actually happening underground. We’ll start with a detailed camera inspection, where we send a high-definition camera through your pipes to identify exactly what’s wrong and where.
As Monica from Upland told us after her recent service: “John explained everything as he completed a video inspection and cleared the blockage with a hydro jet. I could actually see what was happening on his monitor!”
Once we’ve pinpointed the issue, we’ll sit down with you to explain what we found in plain English – no confusing plumber jargon. We’ll outline your repair options, whether that’s traditional excavation or trenchless technology, along with the pros and cons of each approach for your specific situation. You’ll receive a detailed written estimate before we proceed with any work.
Pre-Repair Preparations
Before any digging or repair work begins, there’s important groundwork to be done:
Permit acquisition is our responsibility. We’ll handle all the paperwork with your local municipality, including building permits, street opening permits if work extends to public property, and any special permits required for historic districts.
Utility marking is a crucial safety step. We’ll coordinate with the 811 “Call Before You Dig” service to have all underground utilities (gas, electric, water, etc.) marked before any excavation begins.
Property protection matters to us. Our team will take careful steps to minimize disruption to your home and yard, including covering furniture and floors near work areas, establishing clear pathways for our technicians, and protecting landscaping wherever possible.
Day-By-Day Timeline
Here’s what a typical sewer repair schedule looks like:
Day 1: Inspection and Setup
We’ll perform that comprehensive camera inspection, prepare the worksite, and bring in all necessary equipment. For trenchless repairs, we’ll create minimal access points. If traditional excavation is needed, we’ll begin carefully digging to expose the damaged pipe section.
Day 2-3: Repair Execution
This is when the actual repair happens. For trenchless methods, we’ll clean and prepare the existing pipe, then install the liner or perform pipe bursting. CIPP lining requires curing time for the resin to harden and form a new pipe within your old one.
For traditional repairs, we’ll complete the excavation, remove the damaged pipe sections, install new piping, and begin backfilling the trench.
As one of our trenchless specialists often tells customers: “Trenchless pipelining repairs typically complete in one day on average.” More complex jobs or longer pipe sections may require additional time, but we’ll keep you updated throughout.
Day 4: Completion and Restoration
We’ll conduct final testing with another camera inspection to verify everything’s working properly. All connections will be checked, the site will be thoroughly cleaned up, and we’ll begin restoring any disturbed areas. We finish with a walkthrough to make sure you’re completely satisfied with the work.
Post-Repair Walk-Through & Warranty
Once your sewer line is fixed, we don’t just pack up and leave. We’ll show you a video verification of the completed repair so you can see with your own eyes that the problem is solved.
You’ll receive complete documentation including before-and-after videos or photos, detailed warranty information, maintenance recommendations to prevent future issues, and copies of all permit sign-offs and inspection certificates.
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we stand behind our work with a one-year labor warranty on all sewer repairs. Many of the materials we use also carry manufacturer warranties ranging from 10-50 years, giving you long-term peace of mind.
For more comprehensive information about what goes into a professional sewer repair, visit our Sewer Line Repair page.
A proper sewer repair isn’t just about fixing today’s problem – it’s about preventing tomorrow’s headaches. That’s why we take the time to do things right, keep you informed at every step, and make sure you’re completely satisfied with the final result.
Sewer Line Maintenance Tips to Prevent Future Problems
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and nowhere is this more true than with your sewer system. As we’ve seen countless times at AS Plumbing and Mechanical, regular maintenance can save you thousands in emergency repairs and spare you the headache of dealing with sewage backups in your home.
Proactive Maintenance Strategies
Your sewer line works silently beneath your property, day in and day out. Giving it a little attention now can prevent major problems down the road.
Annual camera inspections are perhaps the most valuable preventative measure you can take. Think of it as a physical for your plumbing – catching small issues before they become disasters. Many of our customers are surprised by what we find during routine inspections, from minor root intrusions to early-stage pipe deterioration that can be addressed before a complete failure occurs.
If you have trees near your sewer line, consider installing copper sulfate root barriers. Trees are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients in your sewer pipe, and their roots can be incredibly persistent and destructive. One of our customers in Riverside had a beautiful 50-year-old oak that had sent roots through three different sections of their clay pipe. A simple root barrier could have prevented thousands in repairs.
“Proper disposal habits are your first line of defense,” explains our senior technician John. Despite what packaging might claim, “flushable” wipes aren’t actually flushable – they’re one of the leading causes of clogs we encounter. The same goes for grease, cooking oil, feminine hygiene products, dental floss, paper towels, cat litter, and medications. These items should never go down your drains.
Simple drain screens on your showers, tubs, and sinks can prevent hair, food particles, and other debris from entering your sewer system in the first place. They’re inexpensive but remarkably effective at preventing buildup over time.
Consider scheduling periodic hydro-jetting every 2-3 years. This preventative maintenance uses high-pressure water to scour the inside of your pipes, removing buildup before it causes blockages. As one of our specialists explains: “Hydro-flushing uses high-pressure water blasts to clear blockages without chemicals,” making it both effective and environmentally friendly.
Always stay alert for early warning signs like slow drains, gurgling toilets, or sewer odors. These subtle signals often indicate developing problems that can be addressed before they escalate into emergencies.
For more comprehensive maintenance advice, visit our Sewer Line Maintenance page.
DIY Care vs. Professional Service
We believe in empowering homeowners to care for their plumbing systems, but it’s important to understand where DIY efforts make sense and where professional expertise becomes necessary.
You can absolutely handle some maintenance tasks yourself. Using enzyme-based drain cleaners monthly can help prevent buildup without damaging your pipes like harsh chemical cleaners. Installing and regularly cleaning drain screens is another simple DIY task that pays big dividends. Being mindful of proper waste disposal practices and running water through rarely-used drains to maintain trap seals are also easy habits to develop.
However, some maintenance simply requires professional tools and expertise. Annual camera inspections require specialized equipment and trained eyes to spot potential issues. Hydro-jetting uses water pressure that would be dangerous without proper training and equipment. Root cutting and removal, pipe descaling for mineral deposits, and preventative repairs of minor issues all fall firmly in the professional category.
“Regular de-rooting” is often recommended as a “lower-budget short-term fix,” particularly in areas with mature trees like many neighborhoods in Upland and Riverside. However, if your camera inspection reveals cracks or damage, more comprehensive repairs may be necessary to prevent worsening conditions.
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we’ve seen how regular maintenance can extend the life of sewer systems by decades. That’s why we offer maintenance service agreements that include regular inspections and preventative care, potentially saving you thousands in emergency repairs while protecting your home from the disruption of unexpected sewer problems.
Your sewer system is a bit like your car – a little regular maintenance goes a long way toward preventing costly breakdowns. And unlike your car, your sewer system is working 24/7, making preventative care even more crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sewer Repair Contractors
What licenses and insurance should a contractor carry?
When you’re inviting someone to dig up your yard and handle your home’s waste system, you want to be sure they’re properly qualified. In California, sewer repair contractors need specific credentials to legally perform this specialized work.
Look for contractors who hold either a C-36 Plumbing Contractor license or a C-42 Sanitation System Contractor license from the California State License Board. These aren’t just fancy certificates – they prove the contractor has demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work on complex sewer systems.
Insurance is equally important – and not just any insurance will do. Your contractor should carry general liability insurance with specific coverage for excavation work (at least $1 million in coverage). They should also have workers’ compensation for all their employees and appropriate bonding for the scope of work they perform.
“A lack of proper insurance is indicative of a lack of integrity on the part of your sewer contractor,” warns one industry expert. This isn’t an area where you want to cut corners – always ask to see proof of these credentials before signing any contract.
How long will my new sewer line last?
One of the biggest concerns homeowners have is how long their investment will last. The good news is that modern sewer lines are built to stand the test of time, though lifespans vary by material:
PVC/ABS Plastic pipes typically last 50-100 years and resist root intrusion better than many alternatives. Cast Iron offers durability for 50-75 years but may eventually succumb to corrosion. Traditional Clay pipes can serve you well for 50-60 years but are vulnerable to root intrusion at the joints.
Older Orangeburg pipes (made of bituminized fiber) generally last 30-50 years, which is why many are now being replaced. Concrete pipes offer 50-75 years of service but can deteriorate in acidic soil conditions. Modern HDPE pipes used in many trenchless replacements rival PVC with 50-100 year lifespans.
The CIPP (cured-in-place pipe) linings used in trenchless repairs typically come with 50-year warranties, and many experts believe they may last even longer than the original pipes they’re reinforcing. With proper maintenance and by keeping tree roots at bay, you can help maximize whatever sewer system you choose.
Is trenchless repair always cheaper than digging?
The honest answer? It depends. While many homeowners assume trenchless methods always save money, the total cost comparison isn’t always so straightforward.
Trenchless repairs often prove more cost-effective when your sewer line runs beneath expensive landscaping, pavers, driveways, or structures. The savings come primarily from what you don’t have to spend on restoration afterward. As one specialist explains: “Trenchless sewer lining can save customers money by avoiding costly trenching and digging.”
These no-dig methods also tend to make financial sense for longer pipe runs where traditional excavation would be extensive, or when pipes are buried deep underground.
However, traditional digging might be your more budget-friendly option for very short sections of easily accessible pipe. It’s also necessary when pipes have completely collapsed (and can’t support a liner) or when significant realignment is needed. The specialized equipment used for trenchless repairs comes with higher upfront costs, which can make traditional methods more economical for simple, accessible repairs.
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we don’t push one method over another. Instead, we provide detailed cost comparisons of both approaches when applicable, helping you make the best decision for your specific situation and budget. Sometimes saving your beautiful landscaping is worth a slightly higher price tag – but that’s entirely your call to make.
Conclusion
Dealing with sewer line problems can feel overwhelming, but finding the right sewer repair contractor truly makes all the difference between a stressful experience and a smooth, efficient repair. Throughout this guide, we’ve walked through everything you need to know about identifying problems, understanding repair options, and making informed decisions about your sewer system.
When those first warning signs appear—slow drains, mysterious odors, or the dreaded backup—quick action can save you thousands in potential damage. Don’t wait until sewage is backing up into your beautiful home! The sooner you address these issues, the simpler and less expensive the solution typically is.
Modern trenchless technologies have revolutionized how we approach sewer repairs. For many homeowners, these minimally invasive methods offer a welcome alternative to having their yard torn up. Not only do these approaches often complete faster, but they typically provide excellent longevity with minimal disruption to your landscaping and daily life.
Before signing any contract, take the time to thoroughly check your potential contractor’s credentials. A reputable sewer repair contractor won’t hesitate to provide license information, proof of insurance, and references from satisfied customers. This simple step can protect you from costly mistakes and subpar workmanship.
“I always tell homeowners to get at least three estimates,” notes one of our senior technicians at AS Plumbing and Mechanical. “It’s not just about finding the lowest price—it’s about finding the right approach for your specific situation.”
Maintaining your sewer system isn’t complicated, but it does require some attention. Regular inspections, proper disposal habits, and addressing minor issues promptly can add decades to your sewer line’s lifespan. Think of it as preventative medicine for your home’s vital systems!
At AS Plumbing and Mechanical, we bring a family-owned business approach to every job throughout Upland, Riverside, and surrounding communities. We believe in clear communication, honest pricing, and standing behind our work with our one-year labor warranty. When you call us, you’re not just getting a contractor—you’re getting a partner who cares about solving your plumbing challenges correctly.
Our 24/7 emergency service ensures we’re there when you need us most, and our investment in advanced leak detection and trenchless repair capabilities means we can solve complex problems with minimal disruption to your property and daily routine.
As one of our customers recently shared: “They did a wonderful job. They were very efficient and quick with their work. They seem to know what they are doing… love their work ethic.”
For more information about our professional sewer repair services or to schedule an inspection, visit our professional sewer repair page or call us today. Don’t let sewer problems disrupt your life—trust the experts at AS Plumbing and Mechanical to keep your system flowing smoothly.
