How Much Does Sewer Line Replacement Cost in Dallas? [2026 Data]

Depending on pipe material, length, and the condition of the existing infrastructure, sewer line replacement costs an average of $4,803 in Dallas, Texas. Most homeowners spend between $1,741 and $6,572, varying based on the scope of the project. Trenchless methods cost more upfront, but save on restoration expenses of digging up the black alkaline clays typical of Dallas residential areas.

Sewer Line Replacement Cost Factors 

Old cast-iron sewer pipes are common in Dallas, Texas, with aging residential plumbing presenting a significant challenge in homes over 30 years old. Cast iron becomes susceptible to cracks, collapses, and corrosion over time. Whether you notice signs of a clogged sewer line or not, investing in newer PVC replacements can help stave off damage caused by the region's expansive clay soil. 

Pipe Material

The three most common pipes used for sewer lines are PVC (the most budget-friendly option), ABS (the mid-range option), and copper (the most expensive). Each has its own cost range and preferred use case scenario. In rarer cases, cast iron is used as a sewer pipe material. 

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. Most Dallas homeowners can expect to need 30 to 40 feet of replacement pipes. 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 require replacement, so discuss options with your pro. 

Type of Replacement

A partial replacement will be the most affordable option, with complete replacement and replacing burst pipes ranging from $60 to $250 per linear foot. Knowing how often to clean your sewer drain can prevent the need for premature full replacements. Here’s how costs break down by type of sewer line replacement:

Sewer Line Replacement Pro Costs

When hiring Dallas sewer line replacement pros, excavation accounts for 30% to 40% of total project costs for an average whole-home replacement. Simple yard digs are at the lower end of the price range, whereas under-slab and heavy-restoration jobs approach the higher end. 

Labor

Professional plumbers in Dallas charge $45 to $200 per hour for labor alone, with most DFW-area residents paying closer to the upper range for experienced contractors. For sewer line replacements, pros often quote on a per-project or per-linear-foot basis rather than charging by the hour. 

Most Dallas plumbers charge a service call fee ranging from $100 to $250 to cover travel time and initial diagnostics across the vast DFW metroplex. 

Permits

Dallas permit fees vary depending on the scope of work involved. The permit fee for a sewer line replacement in Dallas will likely be a combination of a plumbing permit fee and a building permit fee, but specific costs can vary. Residential remodeling projects require a base fee of $181, a $15 technology fee, plus $125 per inspection. 

Permits for sewer line work in Dallas can range from $400 to $1,600, with most contractors applying for the permit on their customers' behalf and passing the cost along to their clients. Added expenses may include city connection and subsidy fees.

Expansive Clay and Excavation

Dallas-Fort Worth sits on expansive clay in many neighborhoods. Shifting soils cause pipe failures and increase excavation complexity and restoration needs. Expect higher costs where soil problems or foundation work are present. Trenchless sewer line piping costs more than shallow trenches, but it often saves thousands in driveway and landscape restoration.

If the lateral runs under a driveway, garage slab, or sidewalk, restoration costs can add thousands when using traditional excavation methods for sewer line replacement.

Legacy Pipe Materials

Old cast iron and Orangeburg sewer pipes are common in Dallas residential plumbing, particularly in homes over 30 years old, where these materials have degraded and become susceptible to cracks, collapses, and corrosion. While cast iron has a lifespan of up to 50 years, many Dallas homes are now approaching or exceeding their expected life expectancy. They're due for replacement with more modern materials like PVC.

Does Sewer Line Replacement Increase Home Value?

As in other cities, sewer lateral replacement in Dallas is generally maintenance, not a remodel with a high direct return on investment (ROI). Expect 25% to 60% recovery at sale depending on whether the replacement removes a known defect that would otherwise cause buyer concessions. Trenchless projects with warranties and documentation tend to have better net recovery because they reduce visible damage and sale friction.

A recent replacement or upgrade can put buyers' sewer questions at ease, offering them the peace of mind of a move-in-ready home free of burst pipes and tree root intrusion. 

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. 

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