Sewer Line Replacement
Yes. When trenchless methods won't work, like a sagging line, we dig and replace the pipe, and can add a backwater valve at the same time.
- ✓ 24/7 emergency line
- ✓ Serving Edmonton and area
Dig and replace is the only option that corrects a sag or slope problem. · Photo: Federal Highway Administration, Public domain
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Signs you need this
- The camera shows a belly or sag where waste collects
- Collapsed sections a liner can't pass through
- Repeat backups even after clearing and repairs
- A line in the wrong position or at the wrong slope
When digging is the right answer
Trenchless methods are great when they fit, but they don’t fit every line:
- Bellies and sags. Lines with a belly or slope problem can’t be fixed by pipe bursting and need excavation. Lining follows the old pipe too, so it doesn’t fix the slope either.
- Collapsed pipe that a liner can’t pass through.
- A line in the wrong place, or one that needs re-routing.
A camera inspection shows which of these applies. We’ll only recommend digging when a trenchless method won’t do the job.
What’s involved
- Locate utilities, including the water line, gas and electrical.
- Excavate along the line.
- Remove the old pipe and lay new pipe at the correct slope.
- Inspect the new line before backfilling.
- Backfill and restore the surface as agreed in your quote.
Add a backwater valve while it’s open
If your home doesn’t have a backwater valve, replacing the line is a good time to add one. Backwater valves were not required in Edmonton homes built before 1989. EPCOR’s subsidy pays up to $800 for eligible homes. See backwater valve installation.
Price
We quote replacement after a camera inspection. The price depends on the length, depth and what’s on top of the line, like a driveway, deck or trees.
Who pays
In Edmonton, homeowners are responsible for sewer lines on their property, and EPCOR is responsible from the property line to the main. Repairs to service lines on your property aren’t typically covered by a basic homeowner’s policy. See who pays for your sewer line.
Our process
Camera inspection
Confirms why trenchless methods won't work for this line.
Locate and plan
Utilities are located, and the dig is planned to keep disruption down.
Excavate and replace
The old pipe is dug out and new pipe laid at the correct slope.
Backfill and restore
The trench is backfilled and the surface restored as agreed.
Questions people ask
When does a sewer line have to be dug up?
When the line has a belly or slope problem, which pipe bursting can't fix, or when the pipe is too damaged for trenchless methods.
What does it cost?
It depends on the length, depth and what's on top of the line, so we quote replacement after a camera inspection.
Should I add a backwater valve at the same time?
It's worth considering while the line is open. EPCOR's subsidy pays up to $800 for eligible Edmonton homes, mainly those built before 1989.
Who pays for the part under the street?
In Edmonton, EPCOR is responsible from the property line to the main. You're responsible for the line on your property.
Talk to us today
Call, or send a few details and photos and we will get back to you.