Best Trenchless Sewer Repair Companies in Colorado Ranked

A damaged sewer line is a serious problem, but the solution doesn't have to be a disaster for your property. Trenchless sewer repair is a modern method for fixing or replacing underground pipes with minimal excavation. This approach is especially valuable in Colorado, where tough soils and established landscapes can make traditional digging costly and disruptive. This guide explains how trenchless technology works in the state, what it costs, and the local regulations you need to know to make an informed decision for your home or business.

High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

15710 W Colfax Ave, Golden, CO 80401

High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is a full-service plumbing company serving Denver, CO. They provide a wide range of plumbing services including water heater installation and repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, and gas line installation. The company uses advanced video technology for sewer camera inspections and offers trenchless sewer repair to minimize excavation. They also specialize in hydro jetting to clear blocked drains efficiently. High 5 Plumbing is licensed for gas plumbing and installs energy-efficient tankless water heaters. The company has received recognition such as the Angi Super Service Award and a BBB Torch Award for Ethics. They provide 24/7 emergency response for urgent plumbing needs.

5.0

1.7k Reviews

Dan's Drains and Digs

216 S Chestnut St, Colorado Springs, CO 80905

Dan's Drains and Digs is a plumbing contractor based in Colorado Springs, CO, specializing in sewer and drain services. They provide sewer camera inspections, drain cleaning, sewer line repairs, trenchless sewer repairs, and repiping. Their capabilities include sewer pipe lining and underground line replacement, addressing both routine and complex plumbing issues. The company is known for handling challenging projects involving old clay sewer lines with a combination of pipe replacement and lining techniques.

5.0

271 Reviews

Midwest Plumbing Co. LLC

8360 Auburn Ln, Westminster, CO 80031

Midwest Plumbing Co. LLC is a plumbing service provider based in Denver, CO, offering a wide range of plumbing solutions. Their services include water heater repair and installation, sump pump repair, sewer line repair with trenchless technology, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, toilet and garbage disposal repair, and more. The company uses advanced equipment and techniques to address both simple and complex plumbing issues, aiming to provide long-term solutions. They serve residential customers and emphasize careful, tailored service for each home. Midwest Plumbing Co. LLC offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to assist customers whenever needed.

5.0

260 Reviews

High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric

7899 S Lincoln Ct Ste 201, Littleton, CO 80122

High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is a plumbing contractor based in Denver, CO, offering a wide range of plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, leak detection, and trenchless sewer repair. They also provide water softener installation and garbage disposal repairs. The company is experienced in sewer line replacements using pipe-burst methods to minimize excavation and offers comprehensive plumbing repairs and installations with attention to code compliance and safety. High 5 Plumbing emphasizes clear communication and reliable workmanship to ensure customer confidence in their services.

4.9

1.3k Reviews

High Country Sewer & Septic

1895 Main St, Colorado Springs, CO 80911

High Country Sewer & Septic is a Colorado Springs, CO-based company specializing in sewer line repair and trenchless sewer repair. They offer advanced excavation and plumbing services, including hydrovac excavation, which allows for safe and precise digging around underground utilities. Their trenchless sewer repair methods minimize disruption to landscaping and reduce project timelines. The company serves both residential and commercial clients in Colorado Springs and surrounding areas, combining eco-friendly practices with extensive industry experience.

5.0

120 Reviews

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How Trenchless Sewer Repair Works in Colorado

Unlike traditional methods that require a long, deep trench to access the entire pipe, trenchless technology uses small access points at the beginning and end of the damaged section. This significantly reduces the need to dig up yards, driveways, and landscaping. In Colorado, two primary trenchless methods are used, each suited for different types of damage ¹.

Pipe Lining (Cured-in-Place Pipe or CIPP): This is a rehabilitation method. A flexible tube coated with a resin (like epoxy) is inserted into the existing damaged pipe. The liner is then inflated, pressing against the host pipe's interior walls, and left to cure. Once hardened, it forms a new, seamless, and corrosion-resistant pipe within the old one. This method is excellent for repairing cracks, leaks, and root intrusions without removing the old pipe ^{1 2 3}.

Pipe Bursting: This is a replacement method. A conical bursting head is pulled through the old, failing pipe, fracturing it outward into the surrounding soil. Simultaneously, it pulls a new, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe into place behind it. This technique is ideal for pipes that are severely collapsed, misaligned, or have lost significant structural integrity. It completely replaces the old line with a new, durable one of equal or larger diameter ^{1 2}.

Why Choose Trenchless Repair for Colorado Properties?

Colorado's unique geography and climate make trenchless solutions particularly advantageous.

• Minimal Surface Disruption: Preserve your lawn, concrete, gardens, and hardscaping. This is a major benefit in neighborhoods with mature trees and landscaping.
• Faster Completion: Most trenchless repairs can be completed in one to two days, compared to the week or more often needed for traditional excavation and restoration ^{1 4}.
• Suitable for Challenging Soils: Colorado's prevalent clay soils are prone to shifting and can be difficult to excavate and compact back properly. Trenchless methods largely work within the existing soil conditions ⁴.
• Long-Lasting Results: Both epoxy liners and HDPE pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, root intrusion, and cracking, offering a durable, long-term solution ^{1 3}.
• Often More Cost-Effective: While the per-foot material cost can be higher, you save significantly on the massive costs of excavation, backfilling, and surface restoration (sod, concrete, etc.). When these are factored in, trenchless repair is often competitively priced with or even less expensive than traditional digging ^{5 4}.

Understanding Costs for Trenchless Repair in Colorado

The cost of a trenchless sewer project varies based on the method, the extent of damage, and your location in the state. Here's a general breakdown:

• Per-Foot Costs: Trenchless sewer repair in Colorado typically ranges from $60 to $250 per linear foot ^{5 6 7}.
  • Pipe Lining: Often falls in the $80 to $250 per foot range, as it involves specialized resin materials ^{5 6 8}.
  • Pipe Bursting: Generally costs $60 to $200 per foot, depending on pipe diameter and soil conditions ^{5 7}.
• Total Project Cost: Total costs can range from $2,000 for a small, localized repair up to $50,000 or more for a complete main line replacement on a large property or a complex job under difficult access points ^{5 6 9}.
• Key Cost Factors:
  • Length and Diameter: More feet and larger pipes require more material.
  • Severity and Type of Damage: Simple cracks are less expensive than a fully collapsed line.
  • Accessibility: Easy access points reduce labor time.
  • Location: Labor and permit costs can vary between cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, Boulder, and Fort Collins.
  • Required Inspections: Mandatory camera inspections before and after add to the cost but are non-negotiable for a proper repair ^{10 4}.

Permits and Regulations in Colorado

Trenchless sewer work is not a DIY project and is strictly regulated to protect public health and infrastructure. Local municipal codes govern all sewer lateral work.

• Permits Are Required: A permit for building a sewer line (sewer lateral work) is almost always required before any trenchless repair or replacement begins ¹⁰. Your licensed plumbing contractor should typically pull this permit.
• Mandatory Inspections: All installed or replaced sewer lines must be inspected and approved by the local Plumbing Inspector or Public Works Plumbing Inspection Office (PWPO) ¹⁰. This usually involves a final camera inspection to verify the new line is properly installed and defect-free.
• Local Rules Vary: Regulations differ by city and county. For example, Denver Public Works has specific "Trenchless Sewer Line Rehabilitation Entrance Requirements" ¹⁰. They may prefer full excavation for brand-new line installations but allow trenchless methods for rehabilitation under strict guidelines that ensure the property owner's benefit and full code compliance ¹⁰.
• When Trenchless Might Be Denied: Authorities may not approve a trenchless method if there is an active sewer use permit on the property or if there are plans to build a structure over the line in the future ¹⁰.

The Trenchless Repair Process: From Diagnosis to Completion

1. Problem Identification: Signs include multiple slow drains, gurgling toilets, sewage odors in the yard, or soggy patches in the lawn.
2. Camera Inspection: A professional will perform a video camera inspection of your sewer lateral. This is the critical first step to diagnose the exact location, nature, and extent of the damage ^{2 4}.
3. Method Recommendation & Estimate: Based on the camera footage, a reputable contractor will recommend either pipe lining or pipe bursting and provide a detailed written estimate.
4. Permitting: The contractor obtains the necessary local permits.
5. Site Preparation: Small access pits are dug at the cleanout and/or at the connection to the main city sewer.
6. Repair/Replacement: The trenchless procedure (lining or bursting) is performed.
7. Final Inspection: A post-repair camera inspection is conducted and submitted to the local inspector for approval ¹⁰.
8. Site Restoration: The small access points are backfilled and compacted, with minimal surface restoration needed.

Choosing a Qualified Colorado Trenchless Specialist

Selecting the right professional is crucial for a successful, code-compliant repair.

• Licensing & Insurance: Verify the plumber holds a current Colorado plumbing license and carries ample liability and workers' compensation insurance.
• Local Experience: Choose a company with proven experience performing trenchless repairs in your specific city or county. They will be familiar with local inspectors and permit processes.
• Technology & Transparency: They should use modern equipment and insist on a camera inspection to diagnose the problem-never accept a guess. They should clearly explain their recommended solution.
• Detailed Estimates & Warranties: Get written, detailed estimates from multiple contractors and compare the scope of work. Ask about warranties on both materials and labor.

Frequently asked questions

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