Top Trenchless Sewer Repair Companies in Spokane, Washington Ranked

A damaged sewer line is a major concern for any homeowner, but the thought of a massive, disruptive excavation across your yard can be just as daunting. Trenchless sewer repair offers a modern, less invasive solution for fixing underground pipes without the need for extensive digging. This method is crucial for preserving your property's landscaping, driveways, and hardscapes while effectively restoring your home's essential plumbing infrastructure. For Spokane residents, understanding the local applications, costs, and process of trenchless technology is the first step in finding a qualified professional to assess and resolve your sewer line issues efficiently.

Bulldog Rooter

16124 E Marietta Ave STE 101, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

Bulldog Rooter is a full-service plumbing company based in Spokane, WA, serving Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho since 2007. They offer a wide range of plumbing services including water heater repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, trenchless sewer repair, and leak detection. Bulldog Rooter is known for its licensed and experienced team that provides 24/7 emergency plumbing services without extra fees for nights, weekends, or holidays. Their capabilities include handling sewer backups and trenchless pipe repairs using the latest technology to maintain plumbing systems efficiently.

4.9

5.4k Reviews

Platinum Rooter & Plumbing

318 S Dishman Mica Rd, Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Platinum Rooter & Plumbing is a licensed and insured plumbing and excavation company serving Spokane, WA, and surrounding areas including Kootenai County. They offer a range of services such as drain cleaning, sewer line repair, trenchless sewer repair, and gas line installation. The team is equipped to handle both residential and commercial projects, with expertise in trenchless sewer repair techniques. Platinum Rooter & Plumbing emphasizes fair pricing with flat-rate quotes and provides financing options through a national lender. They serve multiple locations in Washington and Idaho and focus on delivering quality workmanship.

4.9

628 Reviews

Spokane Rooter

spokane

Spokane Rooter is a locally owned and fully licensed plumbing company based in Spokane, WA. They specialize in trenchless sewer repair, sewer line inspections, drain cleaning, and hydro jetting services. The company offers professional sewer scope inspections with detailed video reports and expert analysis, including real repair bids. Spokane Rooter has completed over 17,000 sewer inspections and provides advanced trenchless sewer repair techniques such as pipe lining and pipe bursting to minimize property disruption. The owner personally performs inspections and ensures quick report delivery, supporting both residential and commercial clients.

4.9

232 Reviews

Inland Trenchless

10925 S Latah Ln, Spokane, WA 99223

Inland Trenchless is a plumbing contractor based in Spokane, WA, specializing in sewer line repair, sewer camera inspections, and trenchless sewer repair. They serve residential and commercial customers in Spokane and surrounding Eastern Washington communities, as well as North Idaho. The company offers both traditional open trench digging and trenchless technologies, including pipe bursting and lining, to repair and replace sewer and water lines efficiently. Inland Trenchless has over 40 years of combined experience and handles large sewer and water projects, including emergency repairs for Orangeburg pipe issues.

5.0

63 Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

6214 E Alki Ave, Spokane Valley, WA 99212

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides a wide range of plumbing services in Spokane, WA, including sewer camera inspections, water heater repairs and installations, drain cleaning, and sewer line repairs. They serve commercial and residential clients across Spokane Valley and surrounding areas. Their capabilities include high-pressure hydro-jetting for clearing drains and sewer lines, as well as trenchless sewer repair methods that minimize disruption. The company offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues at any time.

4.8

1.4k Reviews

See more providers in Spokane, WA

What is Trenchless Sewer Repair?

Trenchless sewer repair, often called no-dig sewer repair, is a collection of advanced techniques used to rehabilitate or replace damaged underground sewer pipes with minimal surface disruption. Instead of digging a long, deep trench to access the entire pipe, technicians use specialized equipment to repair the line from the inside or through small, strategically placed access pits. The primary goal is to restore full function and flow to your sewer system while preserving your property's aesthetics and structural integrity. In Spokane, where mature trees and established landscapes are common, this approach is particularly valuable for avoiding costly and time-consuming restoration work ^{1 2}.

The two most common trenchless methods are Cured-In-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining and pipe bursting.

• CIPP Lining: This process involves inserting a flexible, resin-saturated tube (liner) into the damaged pipe. The liner is then inflated, pressing against the interior walls of the old pipe. It is cured using heat or UV light, hardening to form a seamless, jointless "pipe within a pipe." This new lining seals cracks, blocks root intrusion, and restores structural integrity ^{3 4}.
• Pipe Bursting: This method is used for complete pipe replacement. A conical bursting head is pulled through the old, failing pipe, fracturing it outward while simultaneously pulling a new, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe into place behind it. The new pipe is typically one size larger than the original, improving flow capacity ^{5 6}.

When is Trenchless Repair the Right Choice in Spokane?

Trenchless technology is an excellent solution for many common sewer line problems, but it's not a universal fix. Understanding the conditions it can address will help you determine if it's suitable for your situation.

Ideal candidates for trenchless sewer line repair include:

• Cracked or Fractured Pipes: Horizontal cracks caused by ground shifting or minor settling.
• Corroded Pipes: Deterioration common in older cast iron or Orangeburg pipes.
• Root Intrusion: Pipes where tree roots have infiltrated joints or cracks, causing blockages.
• Bellied or Sagging Sections: Pipes that have sunk due to soil erosion, creating a low spot that collects waste.
• Leaking Joints: Failed seals between pipe sections.
• Minor Collapses: Partial collapses where the pipe's general path is still intact ^{1 5 7}.

The key advantage in these scenarios is that the existing pipe's pathway is still usable. The trenchless process rehabilitates or replaces the line using that same pathway, which is why it's so much less disruptive.

When is Traditional Excavation Still Necessary?

While trenchless methods are versatile, there are circumstances where traditional, open-trench excavation is the only viable option. A professional inspection is essential to make this determination.

Excavation may be required for:

• Severe or Complete Collapses: When a pipe is fully crushed or its path is completely blocked, a liner cannot be passed through, and bursting may not be possible.
• Major Pipe Breaks: Significant, shattered breaks where the pipe's alignment is lost.
• Extreme Offsets: Sections where pipe segments have become severely misaligned.
• Access Limitations: If the pipe's location (e.g., under a major structure with no viable access points) prevents trenchless equipment from being used ^{1 7 6}.

A reputable plumbing professional in Spokane will always recommend the most effective and long-lasting solution, even if it means excavation is the better choice for your specific problem.

The Trenchless Repair Process: Step-by-Step

The workflow for a trenchless sewer project is methodical and typically faster than a full excavation. Here's what you can expect from start to finish.

1. Inspection & Diagnosis: The process always begins with a comprehensive video camera inspection. A specialized CCTV camera is sent through your sewer line from a cleanout, providing a real-time view of the interior. This identifies the exact location, nature, and extent of the damage (e.g., cracks, roots, bellies) and confirms the pipe's material (clay, cast iron, Orangeburg, PVC) ^{3 7}.
2. Cleaning & Preparation: The line is thoroughly cleaned using high-pressure water jetting to remove debris, roots, and obstructions. This ensures a clear path for the liner or bursting equipment.
3. Creating Access Points: Instead of a long trench, two small access pits (typically 4'x4' or smaller) are excavated. One is at the beginning of the damaged section, and one is at the end. These pits provide entry and exit points for the repair equipment ^{5 3}.
4. The Repair/Replacement:
   • For CIPP Lining: The epoxy-saturated liner is fed into the pipe through one access pit and positioned along the damaged section. It is then inflated and cured, forming the new pipe wall.
   • For Pipe Bursting: The bursting head and new pipe are set up at one pit. The head is pulled through the old pipe, breaking it apart and drawing the new pipe into place, exiting at the second pit ^{1 6}.
5. Reconnection & Final Inspection: After the new pipe is in place, lateral connections from your home are re-established. A final camera inspection is conducted to verify the repair's integrity and smooth flow.
6. Restoration: The small access pits are backfilled, compacted, and the surface (grass, gravel, etc.) is restored. This minimal restoration is a fraction of the work required after a full excavation ³.

Permits, Codes, and Inspections in Spokane

Sewer line repairs, especially those that extend into the public right-of-way (such as under a sidewalk or street), are regulated. Reputable contractors handle this permitting process.

• Permits: A Right-of-Way (ROW) permit is typically required from the City of Spokane or Spokane County for any work performed in public easements. This may also involve submitting traffic control plans if street work is necessary ⁸.
• Inspections: City or county inspectors will visit the site at key stages-often after the access pits are dug and after the new pipe is installed but before backfilling. These inspections ensure the work complies with local plumbing and building codes, guaranteeing a safe and proper installation that connects correctly to the public main ⁸.

Always verify that the plumbing company you hire is familiar with and will obtain all necessary local permits for your trenchless sewer project.

Understanding the Cost of Trenchless Repair in Spokane

The cost of trenchless sewer line repair can vary widely based on several project-specific factors. While often more cost-effective than excavation when you factor in restoration, it is a significant investment in your property's infrastructure.

Key factors influencing price include:

• Length of Damaged Section: The single biggest cost driver. Prices are often calculated per linear foot.
• Pipe Diameter and Depth: Larger or deeper pipes require more material and labor.
• Repair Method: CIPP lining and pipe bursting have different material and equipment costs.
• Severity of Damage & Obstacles: Multiple issues, severe root intrusion, or difficult soil conditions can increase complexity.
• Access Difficulty: Limited space for equipment or complex pit digging can add to the cost.
• Permit and Inspection Fees: Local government fees are part of the project cost ⁹.

General Cost Ranges: While every project is unique, here are approximate ranges based on common scenarios:

• Short, Simple Lines (under 100 feet): $2,000 - $5,000
• Moderate Length with Obstacles (100-200 feet): $5,000 - $8,000
• Long or Complex Runs (difficult access, multiple issues): $8,000 - $50,000+ ⁹

It's essential to get detailed, written estimates from multiple licensed and insured trenchless specialists in Spokane. A thorough camera inspection should always precede any formal quote.

Benefits of Choosing Trenchless Technology

The advantages of trenchless sewer repair extend beyond just avoiding a torn-up yard.

• Minimal Property Disruption: Preserves landscaping, trees, gardens, driveways, patios, and sidewalks. Only small access points need restoration.
• Speed: Most trenchless repairs can be completed in one to two days, compared to a week or more for large excavation projects.
• Durability: CIPP liners are corrosion-resistant and create a jointless interior that prevents future root intrusion. New HDPE pipes from bursting have a long lifespan.
• Environmental Impact: Significantly less soil disturbance and lower carbon footprint from reduced heavy equipment use.
• Cost-Effectiveness: While the upfront repair cost can be similar, you save substantially on landscape and hardscape restoration costs, making the total project cost often lower than excavation ^{1 2 4}.

Frequently asked questions

Sources