Find the Best Trenchless Sewer Repair Companies for Your Business
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Best Trenchless Sewer Repair Companies in Virginia Ranked
Trenchless sewer repair fixes damaged sewer lines without digging up your lawn, driveway, or landscaping. It's a modern, less disruptive alternative to traditional excavation, often finished in a day. Use Search a Plumber to browse trenchless sewer repair contractors near you, compare services, and reach out for multiple quotes.
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
2428 Almeda Ave Ste 144, Norfolk, VA 23513
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides a wide range of plumbing services in Virginia Beach, VA, including sewer camera inspections, water heater repairs and installations, drain cleaning, and sewer line repairs. They use advanced equipment such as hydro jetting and video camera inspections to diagnose and resolve plumbing issues efficiently. The company offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent problems at any time. Their expertise also extends to water softener installation and water filtration systems to improve water quality. Roto-Rooter serves Norfolk and nearby areas with licensed and insured professionals.
Get Lit Electrical, Plumbing & Water Heater Repair
1720 Lambert Ct Suite B, Chesapeake, VA 23320
Get Lit Electrical, Plumbing & Water Heater Repair offers a wide range of plumbing services in Virginia Beach, VA. Their licensed plumbers handle everything from water heater installation and repair to sewer line repair and hydro jetting. They specialize in trenchless sewer repair and provide advanced leak detection and repiping services. With years of experience, they focus on honest communication and quality workmanship to ensure lasting results. The company also offers modern plumbing upgrades, including tankless water heaters and water softener installations.
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup
2680 Production Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides a wide range of plumbing services in Virginia Beach, VA, including sewer camera inspections, water heater repairs and installations, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, sewer line repairs, and water softener installations. They serve both residential and commercial clients, including hotels, healthcare facilities, and defense sector locations. The company offers advanced capabilities such as trenchless sewer repair and video camera inspections to diagnose sewer issues with minimal disruption. Roto-Rooter also provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent problems promptly.
Newmans Plumbing Service & Repair
2140 Colorado Ave, Portsmouth, VA 23701
Newmans Plumbing Service & Repair is a plumbing company serving Virginia Beach, VA, and the surrounding Portsmouth area. Since 1994, they have provided a range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, tankless water heater services, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, trenchless sewer repair, leak detection, repiping, and toilet repair. They offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues such as burst pipes and sewer backups. Their expertise includes advanced trenchless pipe repair techniques that minimize disruption and preserve landscaping.
After Hourz Plumbing
richmond
After Hourz Plumbing is a plumbing service provider based in Richmond, VA, offering a wide range of plumbing repairs, installations, and replacements. Their services include sewer camera inspections, water heater repairs and installations, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, and trenchless sewer repair. The company has been serving customers since 2017 and provides 24/7 availability for emergency plumbing needs, ensuring help is accessible day or night.
Trenchless sewer repair is a set of techniques that rehabilitate or replace underground sewer pipes with minimal excavation. Instead of opening a long trench, contractors access the line through small entry points-often an existing cleanout or two short pits-then repair the pipe from the inside or pull a new pipe through the old path.
It's commonly used on residential laterals that run from your home to the city main, as well as on commercial properties. When the existing pipe is cracked, root-intruded, corroded, or leaking-but still provides a passable pathway-trenchless methods can restore function, extend lifespan, and avoid major property damage.
Signs you might need trenchless sewer repair
If you're noticing any of the symptoms below, a camera inspection can confirm the condition of your line and whether trenchless options are feasible.
- Recurring drain backups or slow drains across multiple fixtures
- Gurgling toilets or sewer odors indoors or outside
- Damp, sunken, or unusually green patches in the yard; soft soil or sinkholes
- Backups after heavy rain due to infiltration or offset joints
- Tree root intrusion (common with clay, cast iron, and Orangeburg pipe)
- An older home with original piping or a history of patch repairs
- High water bills from leaks in combined sewer systems
Trenchless methods explained
Understanding the main methods helps you ask better questions and choose the right approach for your line's condition.
CIPP lining (cured-in-place pipe)
A flexible liner saturated with epoxy resin is inverted or pulled into the existing pipe, then cured using ambient air, hot water, steam, or UV light. Once hardened, it forms a jointless "pipe within a pipe" that seals cracks, bridges small gaps, and blocks root intrusion. Robotic cutters reopen branch connections from the inside after curing.
Best for: structurally compromised but largely intact pipes with moderate offsets or cracks.
Pipe bursting
A bursting head is pulled through the existing line, fracturing the old pipe outward while towing in a new high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or similar pipe behind it. This effectively replaces the line along the same path with only two small access pits.
Best for: collapsed or badly deformed pipes, undersized lines that need upsizing, or materials that are hard to line.
Spot or sectional lining
Rather than relining the entire run, a short fiberglass or felt liner patch is positioned and cured only at the damaged section.
Best for: isolated defects like a single crack or joint issue where the rest of the pipe is sound.
Lateral reinstatement and cleanouts
After lining, interior cutters re-open branch connections; many projects add a new exterior cleanout for easy future maintenance and inspection.
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Why trenchless methods matter
- Less property disruption: Save landscaping, hardscaping, and mature trees by avoiding long trenches.
- Faster turnaround: Many residential projects finish in one day after diagnostics and permits are handled.
- Often cost-competitive: While the per-foot price can be higher than raw excavation, avoiding restoration of driveways, patios, or root systems can make trenchless the better total value.
- Durability: Modern liners and new HDPE pipe resist corrosion, root intrusion, and joint failures.
- Safer and cleaner: Fewer open trenches and less heavy equipment mean a tidier job site.
How to choose a trenchless sewer repair contractor
Because trenchless equipment and techniques are specialized, experience matters. Use the directory to build a short list, then vet each company thoroughly.
- Confirm licensing and insurance for sewer work in your city or county.
- Ask how many trenchless jobs they complete in a typical month and which methods they use most.
- Make sure they perform (or arrange) a camera inspection and provide you with the video and written findings.
- Request an itemized, apples-to-apples quote: pipe length and diameter, number of reinstatements, method (CIPP vs. bursting), curing method, and any restoration.
- Understand what's included: permits, traffic control, utility locates, bypass pumping, post-repair CCTV, and cleanouts.
- Review workmanship and material warranties, and how warranty service is handled.
- Check availability, crew size, and whether they own the equipment or rely on subcontractors.
Note: Search a Plumber is a directory to help you find and contact businesses. We don't pre-vet providers or perform any service work, so be sure to do your own due diligence.
Typical costs and what affects them
Every property is different, but these ballpark ranges can help you plan. Actual pricing depends heavily on local codes, pipe size, access, and site complexity.
- Camera inspection and diagnostic: often $200-$600; may be credited if you proceed with repair.
- Hydro-jetting or descaling to prep the line: typically $300-$1,000 depending on severity.
- CIPP lining: commonly $80-$250 per linear foot, with many residential jobs landing between $3,000 and $12,000 for 40-60 feet of 4-6 inch pipe.
- Pipe bursting: roughly $60-$200 per linear foot; full replacement runs can range $4,000-$15,000 or more depending on length and depth.
- Sectional/spot repairs: $800-$3,000 per patch depending on size and access.
- Restoration of landscaping, hardscape, or interior finishes (if needed): highly variable.
Cost drivers to know:
- Pipe length and diameter (larger diameters and longer runs cost more)
- Material type and condition (cast iron vs. clay vs. Orangeburg)
- Depth and access (e.g., under driveways or additions)
- Number of branch connections to reinstate
- Local permitting, inspection requirements, and traffic control
- Need for bypass pumping if the line must remain in service during work
What to expect: timeline from inspection to completion
Most trenchless repairs follow a predictable path.
- Initial call and scheduling
- You describe symptoms and property constraints. Many contractors schedule a camera inspection within a few days.
- On-site camera inspection
- A technician runs a CCTV camera through the line to document defects, measure distance, and mark access points. You should receive a copy of the video and a written report.
- Cleaning and prep
- Hydro-jetting, root cutting, or descaling prepares the interior for lining or bursting and ensures accurate diagnostics.
- Proposal and options
- You receive a detailed scope, method recommendation, timeline, and quote. Comparing at least two bids is wise.
- Permits and utility locates
- The contractor typically handles permits and calls 811 for utility marking. Lead times vary by jurisdiction.
- Installation day
- For CIPP lining: the liner is installed and cured, then laterals are reopened. For bursting: access pits are dug, the old line is burst, and the new pipe is pulled in.
- Post-repair verification
- A final camera inspection confirms the work; you should receive the video for your records.
- Site restoration and cleanup
- Access pits are backfilled and surfaces restored to the level included in your contract.
From signed proposal to completion, projects often span 1-3 weeks depending on permit timing; the actual on-site repair is frequently completed in 1 day.
Key components and equipment
- CCTV inspection camera and locator for mapping the line
- Hydro-jetter, root cutter, or chain descaler for cleaning and prep
- Epoxy-saturated liner and inversion drum (CIPP), with ambient, steam, hot-water, or UV cure systems
- Robotic reinstatement cutters for reopening branch lines
- Pipe bursting head, pull rods, and new HDPE or similar pipe for replacement
- Bypass pumps and hoses if continuous service is required
- Access cleanouts and temporary pits for entry and exit points
Preparation tips for homeowners
- Clear access to cleanouts, basements, and utility rooms; move vehicles from driveways if pits are planned.
- Keep pets and children away from work areas and equipment.
- Minimize water use during the repair window if requested (showers, laundry, dishwashers).
- Identify indoor fixtures that routinely back up; share this and any past repair records with the estimator.
- Ask where access pits will go and how surfaces will be restored.
- Plan parking and route access for crews and materials.
Smart ways to compare quotes
To compare apples to apples, ask each contractor to include:
- Total length and diameter of the line being repaired
- Method (CIPP, pipe bursting, sectional), cure type, and liner or pipe material specs
- Number of lateral reinstatements and whether a new cleanout is included
- Pre- and post-repair CCTV videos with file delivery to you
- All permit fees, inspection fees, traffic control, and 811 utility locates
- Surface restoration scope and allowances (concrete, pavers, landscaping)
- Bypass pumping, if needed
- Warranty terms (materials and labor) and any exclusions
- Payment schedule and financing options, if offered
When you line items up this way, meaningful price and scope differences become clear.
Questions to ask a trenchless contractor
- Are you licensed and insured for sewer work in my city/county?
- Which trenchless methods do you recommend for my line and why?
- How many projects like mine have you completed in the past year?
- What's the expected remaining diameter after lining, and will capacity meet code?
- How will you handle multiple branch lines and reinstatements?
- What cure method will you use and how long before I can use the plumbing?
- Will you provide pre- and post-repair camera videos and a written warranty?
- What's included in restoration, and what could trigger change orders?
- Who will be on site performing the work-your crew or subcontractors?
- What are the payment terms and timeline, including permit lead times?
When trenchless isn't the best fit
Trenchless won't solve every problem. In these situations, discuss alternatives with your contractor:
- A fully collapsed section with no passable path for lining equipment
- Severe sags ("bellies") or inadequate slope that cause chronic standing water
- Sections with major misalignment or where grade corrections are needed
- Extensive structural damage near the city main or in public right-of-way with special restrictions
- Very short, straight runs where open-cut may be simpler and cheaper
- Pipes that are too deteriorated to safely burst without risking adjacent utilities
A reputable pro will explain the trade-offs and offer a clear plan-trenchless, open-cut, or a hybrid.
Permits, codes, and warranties
- Permits and inspections: Most municipalities require permits for sewer work, including lining. Expect at least one inspection and sometimes a plumbing test. Your contractor usually pulls permits, but verify this in writing.
- Utility locates: Before any digging, underground utilities must be marked via 811. Confirm this is scheduled before work begins.
- Code considerations: Liner thickness, final diameter, and reconnection details must meet local code. Ask how the proposed method complies.
- Warranties: It's common to see 10-25 years on liner materials and 1-5 years on labor, depending on the method and local norms. Read the fine print and keep your post-repair CCTV video and documentation.
Financing, insurance, and paying for repairs
- Financing: Many contractors offer payment plans or partner with financing providers. Compare APRs and fees and avoid large upfront payments until milestones are met.
- Homeowners insurance: Policies often exclude wear and tear, but sudden breaks or collapses may be covered. Some insurers offer sewer line endorsements-check your policy.
- Home warranty plans: Coverage varies widely; confirm if trenchless repair is included and what limits apply.
- Tax or utility rebates: Occasionally available for inflow/infiltration reduction or green infrastructure programs-ask your contractor and local utility.
Trenchless vs. traditional excavation: quick comparison
- Property impact: Trenchless uses small access points; open-cut requires a continuous trench.
- Speed: Trenchless often completes in a day; excavation can take multiple days plus restoration.
- Cost: Trenchless per-foot rates can be higher, but avoiding restoration frequently narrows or reverses the difference.
- Longevity: Quality liners and HDPE pipe offer decades of service when installed correctly; traditional PVC/ABS replacements also perform well when properly bedded and joined.
- Risk: Trenchless reduces risk to trees, patios, and utilities along the route; excavation provides full access for grade corrections.
Use the directory with confidence
Search a Plumber makes it easy to find trenchless sewer repair contractors in your area. Because we don't pre-screen or endorse individual providers, use the guidance above to check licensing, compare detailed quotes, and ask the right questions. With a clear plan and the right pro, you can restore your sewer line quickly, protect your property, and move on with peace of mind.
Explore local providers, gather a few quotes, and choose the contractor who earns your confidence on scope, price, and professionalism. You've got this.