Key Takeaways for Homeowners for Sewer Line Repair
• A Sewer line repair requires experienced and properly insured plumbers — not handymen.
• Your plumber should always show you a sewer camera inspection before any digging.
• Pressure to sign same-day repair contracts is a red flag — get a second opinion.
• Choose a plumber who follows OSHA trench-safety standards and explains repair options clearly.
• The right choice protects your home and your wallet.
A sewer line failure isn’t just a plumbing problem — it’s a home-protection problem. When wastewater backs up into your home, everything from your foundation to your family’s health can be at risk. That’s why choosing the right plumber matters as much as the repair itself.
Across Metro Atlanta, homeowners rely on Aaron Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for sewer line repairs backed by decades of experience, transparent pricing, and safe excavation practices.
Do You Need Sewer Line Repair? Here’s How to Tell
Sewer problems rarely appear out of nowhere. You’ll typically see:
• Multiple drains backing up or draining slowly
• Gurgling sounds after flushing
• Sewage odors around your home or yard
• Bright green patches or always-wet areas of grass
• Soil sinking or soft spots in your yard
• Recurring clogs even after snaking
If more than one drain is misbehaving — it’s usually the main sewer line.
What Makes a Plumber Qualified for Sewer Line Repair?
Sewer repair is one of the most specialized plumbing services. Not all plumbers are trained to do it safely and effectively.
Ask these must-know questions:
| ✅ Good Signs | 🚩 Red Flags |
|---|---|
| They are certified & insured | They offer estimates before inspecting |
| They show sewer camera footage | They won’t share inspection video |
| They offer multiple repair options | They insist on one expensive solution |
| They follow OSHA trench safety | They dig without protective shoring or sloping |
| They answer cost/permit questions clearly | They say “We’ll know when we dig” |
If a plumber can’t answer confidently?
Don’t hire them.
Sewer Scope Inspection: The Step No One Should Skip
A sewer camera inspection is non-negotiable.
It’s how plumbers:
• Pinpoint the exact problem
• Avoid unnecessary digging
• Document pipe condition
• Provide accurate repair options
A sewer camera inspection is a diagnostic procedure that sends a camera into the line to identify cracks, blockages, or collapsed areas without digging.
Sewer lines are designed to drain, so if you have a major clog, there’s normally an underlying cause. That’s why a professional sewer scope inspection is so important: it verifies whether the damage is from tree roots squeezing through tiny joints, a section of pipe that has collapsed from age or shifting soil, or years of buildup from materials that were never meant to be flushed. It’s impossible to complete a proper sewer line repair without laying eyes on the problem. Understanding the true cause isn’t just about fixing today’s problem — it’s about preventing the next one.
Sewer Line Repair Methods Matter — Here’s What to Expect
Traditional Sewer Replacement
Dig up the damaged section and replace pipe entirely
Best for: Collapsed pipes, severe misalignment, most budget friendly
Trenchless Sewer Repair
Fix from the inside with minimal digging
| Method | Best For | Digging Required | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pipe Lining | Cracks, corrosion, small gaps | ✅ Small | 30–50 yrs |
| Pipe Bursting | Major structural failures | ✅ Small | 50+ yrs |
✅ Faster
✅ Protects landscaping & driveways
✅ Often lower total cost after restoration
A trustworthy plumber will explain both — not sell you the most expensive option.
Why Cost Should Be Clear (Before Digging Starts)
Sewer line repair pricing varies based on:
• Length of pipe damaged
• Depth of the sewer line
• Access — driveway vs. yard
• Trenchless vs. traditional
• Soil type, tree roots, utilities
General cost ranges exist, but the true price requires camera inspection and a clear scope of work. Your plumber should walk you through the knowns and unknowns. It’s true that conditions and the scope of work can change once a sewer line repair begins, but your plumber should be upfront about the possibilities and limitations up front.
Pressure-free advice:
If the clog is cleared and you can stop using water, you may have time for a second opinion.
Consumer Alert: Beware of High-Pressure Sales Tactics
If someone tells you:
“We have to start digging TODAY — you must decide now!”
You should be concerned.
Drain clearing often needs immediate action.
Full sewer line repair usually does not.
Right steps:
Your home. Your choice. Your timeline.
When a plumber insists a repair must begin right now, that’s usually a sales tactic — not a safety requirement. Clearing the immediate clog is important to stop sewage from backing up, but once the water has gone down and you pause water use, you typically have time to make an informed decision. Sewer repair should happen soon, but it rarely needs to happen within minutes of the diagnosis. If you feel rushed or pressured, take a step back: pay for the diagnostic work, get a copy of the sewer camera footage, and consider a second opinion. A reputable company will respect that this is your home, your investment, and your decision to make — without fear-based sales tactics.
Will Insurance Help Pay for My Sewer Line Repair?
We are not insurance agents or adjusters. This information is general guidance only and you should always speak directly with your own insurance provider to confirm coverage for sewer line repair.
When sewer lines fail, one of the first concerns homeowners have is whether the repair will be covered by insurance. The answer isn’t always straightforward. Sewer line repair can fall into different categories depending on what caused the damage and where the line is located, and those factors have a major influence on how insurance responds.
Insurance is more likely to help when the damage is sudden, accidental, or otherwise unavoidable. For example, a sewer line collapse caused by a shifting foundation or damage from nearby utility work may be considered a sudden incident. However, problems caused by long-term wear and tear, corrosion in older clay or cast-iron pipes, and roots that slowly infiltrate the line are often classified as maintenance issues and may not be covered.
Location matters too. Some policies only cover the sewer line repair when the damage occurs underneath the home structure and not in the yard. Homeowners with a service line rider or added sewer protection may have broader coverage.
Even if the sewer line repair itself isn’t covered, cleanup often is. When wastewater backs up into a home, it can contaminate floors, walls, and belongings. Category 3 wastewater cleanup requires professional remediation companies such as Restopros to ensure everything is cleaned and sanitized safely. Insurance will sometimes cover the cost of that cleanup, even if the actual sewer line repair is the homeowner’s responsibility.
Our team helps homeowners document sewer problems with inspection videos, detailed reports, and job photos. We can’t determine your coverage, but we can provide the information you need so your insurance company can make a decision quickly and correctly.
Why Local Sewer Experts Are Best
Choosing a local, family-owned company means:
• Faster response
• Knowledge of local piping materials + soil conditions
• Accountability to the community
• Real reviews from neighbors
• No subcontractor guessing games
Aaron Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is a 4th-generation team serving Metro Atlanta since 1978 — big enough to deliver award-winning service, small enough to know your name.
Common Causes of Sewer Line Problems
• Roots searching for moisture
• Decades-old pipe materials
• Ground shifting
• Grease + wipes buildup
• Poor installation decades ago
Over time, even the strongest sewer lines face a battle against their environment. Mature trees can send aggressive roots toward pipes in search of moisture, older materials like clay or cast iron can crack and corrode, and shifting Georgia soil can stress joints until they break. Add in years of grease buildup or items flushed that were never meant to leave a toilet, and what starts as a small weakness can quickly turn into a major collapse. Understanding the cause of the damage is the first step toward choosing the repair that will truly last.
What Happens If You Wait Too Long?
• Sewage backups inside the home
• Foundation damage
• Contaminated soil
• Mold and odors
• Emergency replacement costs
• Possible neighbor damage liability
Fast repair avoids catastrophic damage.
When wastewater backs up into a home, it’s considered Category 3 water — the most hazardous level of contamination. This isn’t simply “dirty water.” It contains bacteria, chemicals, and pathogens that can cause serious illness and must be handled with proper protective equipment and sanitizing procedures. Cleanup should always be performed by trained professionals, like our friends at Restopros, who specialize in safely removing contaminated materials and restoring healthy indoor environments. A fast sewer line repair keeps the damage from spreading — and keeps your family protected.
Preventive Steps Homeowners Can Take
- Sewer scope inspection every 1–3 years
- Never flush wipes
- Keep large trees and bushes away from sewer lines
- Watch for slow drains
- Listen for gurgling drains
- Keep Fats Oils and Grease out of your drains
Even when your sewer line is working properly, simple habits can help you avoid surprises later. Staying alert to early plumbing changes — like drains that start slowing down or gurgling after use — gives you a chance to catch problems before they become backups. Routine sewer scope inspections every few years provide a clear picture of what’s happening underground, especially in older homes or properties with large trees nearby. And when it comes to what goes down the drain, less is more: fats, oils, and grease harden inside pipes, and “flushable” wipes are a common culprit behind stubborn blockages. A little prevention goes a long way toward keeping your sewer system trouble-free.
“Before You Agree to Your Sewer Line Repair” Checklist ✅
Ask these 7 questions:
1️⃣ Can I see the sewer scope video right now?
2️⃣ Are you experienced and insured for sewer replacement?
3️⃣ What trenchless options are possible?
4️⃣ What’s the full cost including restoration and permits?
5️⃣ Will excavation follow OSHA trench safety standards?
6️⃣ Can you show past sewer projects near me?
7️⃣ What happens if you find additional issues underground?
If you hear vague answers, walk away.
Why Homeowners Choose Aaron Plumbing, Heating & Cooling
We do more than just fix drain pipes – we protect homes and educate homeowners
At Aaron Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we believe homeowners deserve clarity, not surprises. That’s why we provide a free estimate for you sewer line repair, complete transparency with photos and sewer camera footage, and competitive pricing backed by decades of real-world experience. Our process is designed to help you understand what’s happening underground — and make the best choice for your home without pressure or confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does sewer line repair cost?
Costs vary depending on length of damage, depth, access, and repair method. Camera inspection required for accurate pricing.
Do I always need a sewer scope?
Yes. It prevents unnecessary digging and reveals the exact problem.
Can you repair sewer lines under driveways?
Yes — trenchless repairs avoid major demolition. Wherever possible we’ll explore trenchless and pipe relining options
How long does repair take?
Most in 1 day. Large replacements may take 2.
Do you handle permits?
Yes — we can handle any necessary permits and inspections.
Aaron Plumbing is the Trusted Sewer Line Repair Team
When something goes wrong underground, the last thing you need is pressure or confusion. Sewer line repair is a big decision, and having the right plumber on your side can turn a stressful situation into a manageable one. We’re here to help you understand what’s happening, review your options, and feel confident about the choice you make for your home. If you’re dealing with backups, odors, or anything that doesn’t feel right, give us a call — our friendly, experienced team is ready to help whenever you need it.