Sewer Line Replacement - Is It Safe?

Worried about what a sewer line replacement means for your property? When your main sewer line breaks, collapses or blocks beyond repair, replacing it is sometimes the only real fix. Done by licensed professionals, with the right equipment and best practice techniques, the job is safe and gives you a drainage system that lasts. It carries real health and safety risks and has to meet council regulations and building codes, which is why it is not a DIY job.

In homes built after the 1970s, these pipes are typically made of plastic, while older homes may have clay, cast iron or fibre conduit pipes.

Why should I replace my sewer lines?

Keeping sewer lines in good condition matters, because that’s how your waste water gets away from the house. Signs of a problem range from water failing to drain in your sinks or the toilet refusing to flush to worse situations, like waste backing up from your drains or smells rising in your yard.

Over time, pipes can break, collapse or become misaligned. There are numerous reasons for this, including aging materials, tree roots, or shifts in the earth.

Regardless of the cause, a damaged sewer line will eventually start playing havoc on your home.

Replacing the whole line isn’t always your only option, though. In some cases, no-dig pipe relining may be a better solution. A drainage professional can advise you on whether this is suitable in your situation.

Is it safe to replace sewer lines?

Replacing sewer lines is a complex operation, requiring an in-depth understanding not only of plumbing, but also of how the replacement process relates to other factors like building structures, soil conditions and underground utility lines. It takes specialist equipment and excavation knowledge to do the job safely.

On top of that, working on sewer lines carries health and safety risks, and there are council regulations and building codes to meet. Most DIY-ers won’t be aware of all of them.

Sewer line and drain replacement are jobs for licensed professionals, plain and simple. They understand the risk factors and use best practice techniques and equipment. Done right, the replacement process is safe and your home’s drainage system will last.

Get the right advice

A main sewer line replacement isn’t something to take lightly. It’s not cheap, and it’s usually disruptive to your home and outdoor landscaping. In some situations it’s the only solution, so get professional advice to find out where you stand.

The technicians at Drainpro use CCTV camera technology to see what’s going on in your pipes before anyone starts digging. If you do need a line replacement, we’ll explain what’s involved and get things moving.

To have your pipes looked at, give us a call on 1300 303 247 now, or fill out our online form.