Cost to Install a Sewer Line in Seattle

Normal Range: $2,209 - $7,347

Most people pay $4,682 to install a sewer line in Seattle, Washington, but depending on materials and labor costs in your area, you may end up paying between $2,209 and $7,347.

How we get this data
Modern cottage home exterior
Ursula Page / Adobe Stock Photography
Modern cottage home exterior
Ursula Page / Adobe Stock Photography
Highlights
  • Side sewers are the sewer lines that run from your home to the public sewer system in Seattle.

  • You’ll need to obtain the proper permits from the Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections before beginning installation.

  • A plumber or sewer service in Seattle can provide a quote and help you navigate the process.

On average, homeowners pay $4,682 for the cost to install a sewer line in Seattle, Washington. Depending on factors like materials, length, and labor, the cost can fall between $2,209 and $7,347. Homeowners are responsible for keeping side sewers in good condition and replacing them when necessary. Break down the cost factors below as you plan your sewer line budget.

Sewer Line Installation Cost Factors 

Various factors impact the cost your sewer pro will quote you in Seattle, Washington. Consider the linear footage, type of pipe, demolition, and prep. 

Sewer Line Cost per Linear Foot

City sewer system from house illustrated, with the sewer lateral pipes running to the sewer main line

The average cost to install a sewer line ranges from $50 to $250 per linear foot. Sewer line pipes are about 5 inches in diameter and run underneath your yard from your house to the main sewer drain. See the table below for cost averages based on the linear footage.

Length (Feet)Average Cost
25$1,250–$6,250
50$2,500–$12,500
75$3,750–$18,750
100$5,000–$25,000

Materials

To install a sewer line, you’ll need to purchase the pipes that connect the main sewer drain to your home. New pipes cost around $3 to $20 per linear foot. Factor in the type of piping material to gain a closer estimate as to how much you’ll pay per linear foot by referencing the following chart:

Type of Pipe Average Cost (Per Linear Foot) ProsCons
Clay$50–$60Durable, resistant to corrosion, long-lastingCommon in older homes, likely needs to be replaced, prone to cracking
PVC$0.50–$5Most affordable, good fit for mild temperaturesDoesn’t stand up well in extreme cold
Cast iron$2–$10Highly durable, performs well in areas with heavy surface trafficProne to rust and corrosion, heavy material makes labor more intensive
Copper$20–$30High quality, long-lastingProne to corrosion, can freeze in cold temperatures
HDPE$4–$6High quality, long-lasting $4–$6 Used with trenchless methods, resistant to corrosion, tree root intrusion, and chemical damage Flammable, higher cost for skilled labor and specialized techniques

Demolition and Prep 

Sewer Line Installation Pro Costs

Before finalizing your sewer line installation project, weigh the costs of hiring a skilled pro and the permits you’ll need in Seattle. 

Permits and Regulations

If you live in Seattle, you will likely need to coordinate with Seattle Public Utilities, and possibly King County, to determine necessary permits and follow regulations specific to the city and county.

The Seattle Department of Construction & Inspections requires a side sewer permit to make repairs or alterations, relocate or remove a pipe, or install a new sewer line. A sanitary permit for a side sewer in new construction costs $375, and a storm system permit also costs $375—for a total of $750 if you need both. Additional fees may be required if you’re working in a public right-of-way. Your sewer service will help you navigate the permitting process.

Labor 

Labor to install a sewer line in Seattle depends on the sewer service or plumber you hire and the scope of the project. Pros charge between $30 and $247 per linear foot or $50 to $250 per hour for labor. Because the cost of living in Seattle is 45% higher than the national average, labor rates can be higher than in other areas. 

Speak with your sewer line repair pro in Seattle, Washington, so you know the hourly rate and get an estimate for the total cost of materials and labor.

Does Sewer Line Installation Increase Home Value?

Installing a new sewer line doesn’t necessarily raise a home’s value, but a broken sewage line or a system in need of repairs can lower it. If you’re selling your home, prospective home buyers may request a sewer inspection, and a well-maintained sewer line can ease their mind. Properly maintaining your sewer line, taking care of repairs in a timely manner, and replacing it when necessary is a worthwhile investment.

How Angi Gets Its Cost Data

Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects. 

Want to help us improve our cost data? Send us a recent project quote to [email protected]. Quotes and personal information will not be shared publicly.

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