Drain Replacement Melbourne
When a drain is too far gone to reline, we dig it out and replace it
Sometimes a drain can’t be saved. If the pipe has collapsed, is badly misaligned, or has structural damage that makes pipe relining impossible, the only fix is to excavate and replace it. We’ve been doing drain replacements across Melbourne since 1999 - sewer lines, stormwater pipes, boundary traps, and everything in between.
Call 1300 303 247 for same-day service.
When does a drain need replacing?
Not every damaged drain needs a full replacement. We always check with a CCTV drain inspection first to see whether relining or a spot repair will do the job. Full replacement is the right call when:
- The pipe has completely collapsed and there’s no structure left to reline
- Severe ground movement has pushed pipe sections out of alignment
- The pipe material has deteriorated beyond repair (common with old earthenware and cast iron)
- Previous repairs have failed and the pipe is patched together with mismatched fittings
- Root damage is so extensive the pipe has broken into multiple pieces
If relining is still an option, we’ll tell you - it’s usually cheaper and faster. We only recommend replacement when it’s genuinely the better long-term fix.
How we replace drains
Every replacement starts with a camera. No point digging until we know exactly where the damage is and how far it extends.
- CCTV inspection - We locate the damaged section, measure the depth and length, and check for any obstacles (other services, footings, tree roots) along the dig path.
- Excavation - We dig down to the pipe using a mini excavator or hand-dig in tight spots. Depth varies - sewer lines in Melbourne typically run 600mm to 2m deep.
- Pipe removal and replacement - The damaged section gets removed and replaced with new PVC pipe. We connect it to the existing line and bed the pipe properly in blue metal or sand.
- Backfill and reinstatement - The trench gets compacted in layers and the surface is reinstated - whether that’s lawn, concrete, pavers, or asphalt.
- Final CCTV check - Camera goes back through the new section to confirm everything is aligned and flowing properly. You get the footage.
Most residential drain replacements take 2 to 5 days depending on the length and depth of the pipe and what’s on the surface above it.
Drain replacement vs pipe relining
The two options suit different situations. Here’s a quick comparison:
- Relining works when the pipe is cracked or root-damaged but still holds its shape. No digging, 1-2 days, 50-year warranty. See our pipe relining page for details.
- Replacement is needed when the pipe has collapsed or is too badly damaged to reline. More disruptive and usually more expensive, but it gives you a brand new pipe with a clean run.
We do both and we’ll recommend whichever makes more sense for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
How much does drain replacement cost in Melbourne?
It varies a lot depending on pipe length, depth, what’s above it (digging under a driveway costs more than under a lawn), and whether other services need to be worked around. We quote a fixed price after the CCTV inspection so you know the full cost before we start.
How long does drain replacement take?
Most jobs take 2 to 5 days. A short section under a garden might be done in a day. Longer runs or pipes under concrete take longer. We’ll give you a timeline when we quote.
Will you need to dig up my driveway or yard?
It depends where the damaged pipe is. We keep the dig area as small as possible and reinstate the surface once we’re done. If the pipe runs under a structure you’d rather not disturb, we’ll check whether pipe relining is an option first.
Do you replace stormwater drains as well?
Yes. We replace both sewer and stormwater pipes. The process is the same - CCTV first, then excavation and replacement with new PVC.
What about boundary trap replacement?
We replace boundary traps across Melbourne. These are the connection points between your property’s sewer and the council main. If your boundary trap is cracked, collapsed, or the surround has failed, we can dig it out and install a new one.
Get a free quote
Call 1300 303 247 - fixed pricing, no surprises.
Drain Replacement Melbourne - service in action
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does drain replacement cost in Melbourne?
It varies a lot depending on pipe length, depth, what's above it (digging under a driveway costs more than under a lawn), and whether other services need to be worked around. We quote a fixed price after the CCTV inspection so you know the full cost before we start.
How long does drain replacement take?
Most jobs take 2 to 5 days. A short section under a garden might be done in a day. Longer runs or pipes under concrete take longer. We'll give you a timeline when we quote.
Will you need to dig up my driveway or yard?
It depends where the damaged pipe is. We keep the dig area as small as possible and reinstate the surface once we're done. If the pipe runs under a structure you'd rather not disturb, we'll check whether pipe relining is an option first.
Do you replace stormwater drains as well?
Yes. We replace both sewer and stormwater pipes. The process is the same - CCTV first, then excavation and replacement with new PVC.
What about boundary trap replacement?
We replace boundary traps across Melbourne. These are the connection points between your property's sewer and the council main. If your boundary trap is cracked, collapsed, or the surround has failed, we can dig it out and install a new one.
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Drain Replacement Melbourne
