How Much Does Sewer Line Replacement Cost in Washington, D.C.? [2025 Data]

Average sewer line replacements in Washington, D.C., range from $2,341 to $6,647, with most homeowners spending an average of $4,439. With D.C.’s cost of living sitting 39% above the national average, both sewer line materials and replacement labor tend to be higher here compared to prices in other parts of the U.S. 

The main factors impacting the cost of homeowners’ sewer line replacement in Washington, D.C. are project complexity, pipe material, pipe length, and labor.

Sewer Line Replacement Cost Factors 

How much you’ll pay for a sewer line replacement in Washington, D.C., depends on a variety of factors. Here’s a closer look at how your total breaks down. 

Pipe Material

The most common pipes used for sewer lines are PVC (the most budget-friendly option), ABS (the mid-range option), cast iron (higher-end), and copper (the most expensive). Each has its own cost range and preferred use case scenario; however, in Washington, D.C., PVC pipes are the most popular option for their affordability and ease of installation. Heavier cast-iron pipes are not commonly used in new D.C. homes, but are still found in older, pre-1970s properties throughout the area.

Here’s how sewer line replacement costs are affected by pipe material:

Pipe Length

The cost of running a new sewer pipe ranges from $50 to $250 per linear foot, with an average price of $150 per linear foot, which includes both materials and labor. When replacing the sewer line from your house to the main, the distance depends on your specific neighborhood and property, but an average of 40 feet is a reasonable estimate to help you determine your budget. The further your house is from the hookup, the longer the sewer pipes and the higher the costs.

Of course, the entire length of the pipe may not need to be replaced, so discuss options with your pro to get answers to all your sewer questions. 

Type of Replacement

A partial replacement will be the most affordable option, with complete replacement and burst-pipe replacement ranging from $80 to $300 per linear foot. Knowing how often to clean your sewer drain can help prevent premature full replacements. Here’s how costs break down by type of sewer line replacement:

Sewer Line Replacement Pro Costs

In addition to the materials needed for your sewer line replacement, D.C. homeowners should consider professional labor-related costs that impact the project’s total. Here’s a closer look at the professional expenses to add to your budget.

Labor

On average, labor accounts for 50% of your total sewer line replacement costs, which includes work completed by licensed plumbers, equipment operators, general contractors, and excavation specialists. You can expect to pay between $45 and $200 per hour, depending on the Washington D.C. sewer repair pros you hire and your project’s complexity. 

Permits

The District of Columbia requires permits for sewer line replacements. Here’s a breakdown of the permit costs that you should build into your budget:

• DC Water Permit Review: $1,060

• DC Public-Space (DDOT) Excavation Permit: $85, if your project requires excavation on a public sidewalk or road

• Building permit: $20 minimum, with costs varying depending on project scope

Your sewer line pro can usually handle the permitting process for you, but it’s always wise to confirm this before starting work on your project.

Taxes

Sales tax in Washington, D.C. is 6%, but you’re only required to pay tax on the materials portion of your project. In D.C., labor on construction services is exempt from tax. Before starting your project, it’s always a good idea to ask your contractor how they structure their fees so you can budget accordingly and avoid surprises on your final invoice. 

Does Sewer Line Replacement Increase Home Value?

Replacing your sewer line doesn’t offer a direct financial return on investment (ROI), but it still adds value to your home by avoiding future damage costs, preventing signs of a clogged sewer line, and providing peace of mind. Many prospective homeowners value a well-maintained property, and an old or failing sewer line can negatively impact your home’s resale value. To weigh your project’s value, consider your own reduced risk of damage while living in your home, and the appeal of a well-functioning sewer line to potential buyers.

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.