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Best Options for Sewer Line Replacement in Southern California Jan 20, 2026

If you own a single-family home built prior to 1970 in the Inland Empire or Coachella Valley, your sewer line is likely nearing the end of its functional life. After more than 40 years in business as a Plumbing and B licensed contractor, we’ve seen firsthand which sewer replacement methods work best in Southern California—and which ones cost homeowners far more than necessary.

This guide is written specifically for homeowners searching for sewer line replacement in the Inland Empire, trenchless sewer repair, and sewer line replacement in the Coachella Valley.

Common Sewer Line Problems in Older Southern California Homes

Homes built before 1970 in cities across Riverside County, San Bernardino County, and the Coachella Valley commonly have sewer pipes made from:

These materials deteriorate over time, leading to:

When this happens, homeowners are often told trench replacement is the only option—but that’s rarely true today.

Why Trenchless Sewer Replacement Is Often the Best Choice

Traditional sewer trenching involves excavation that can include:

In Southern California, restoration costs alone can exceed the cost of the plumbing work. For this reason, we typically recommend trenchless sewer replacement methods whenever the pipe conditions allow.

Best Sewer Line Replacement Options in the Inland Empire & Coachella Valley

Pipe Bursting (Best for Orangeburg & Failed Pipes)

Pipe bursting replaces your sewer line underground by breaking apart the existing pipe and pulling in a new one along the same route.

We recommend pipe bursting when:

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that pipe bursting is often less expensive than epoxy pipe lining, making it one of the most cost-effective trenchless sewer replacement options in Southern California.

Epoxy Pipe Lining (Perma-Liner® System)

Epoxy pipe lining creates a seamless, joint-free pipe inside the existing sewer line. We use the Perma-Liner® system, a proven solution for long-term sewer rehabilitation.

Ideal for:

Real-world example: We’ve completed epoxy lining projects beneath home foundations by accessing the sewer through existing toilet closet bends and a single exterior access point. This approach sealed cracked ABS pipes without jackhammering the slab, saving homeowners the cost of foundation work, flooring replacement, and interior restoration.

Spot Sewer Repairs

Not every sewer problem requires full replacement. In some cases, targeted spot repairs can address localized damage.

We often combine spot repairs with pipe bursting or epoxy lining to reduce costs while still delivering a permanent solution.

Sewer Line Replacement Costs in Southern California

For most homes in the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, trenchless sewer replacement typically ranges from:

$150–$250 per linear foot

Pricing depends on:

Because pipe bursting is frequently less expensive than lining, we often combine both to deliver the best value.

Common Sewer Replacement Mistakes Homeowners Make

Delaying Repairs

Cracked and root-intruded sewer lines can collapse over time. Once collapse occurs, trenchless options may no longer be possible.

Believing Epoxy Lining Can’t Be Snaked

Properly installed epoxy-lined pipes can be cleaned using conventional cable equipment.

Choosing the Cheapest Bid

Low bids often involve subcontracted crews, inferior materials, or limited warranties.

Not Verifying Who Is Doing the Work

If sewer work is subcontracted, warranties may not be honored by the company you hired.

Permits & Local Code Considerations

We work with all cities throughout the Inland Empire, handling sewer permits and inspections as required. Local requirements vary by city, but trenchless sewer replacement often reduces surface restoration and inspection complexity.

Longevity & Warranty

We provide a lifetime warranty against root intrusion. When properly installed, trenchless sewer systems eliminate joints—the primary entry point for roots.

How We Determine the Best Sewer Replacement Method

Our recommendation process is straightforward:

Our goal is always to minimize disruption, protect the home, and control long-term costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long does trenchless sewer replacement take?

Most trenchless sewer projects are completed in 1–2 days, compared to weeks for full trench replacement.

Is trenchless sewer repair allowed in the Inland Empire?

Yes. Trenchless sewer repair and replacement are permitted in cities throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties when installed to code.

Can epoxy-lined sewer pipes be cleaned or snaked?

Yes. Properly installed epoxy-lined pipes can be cleaned using standard sewer cable equipment.

What is the lifespan of trenchless sewer replacement?

Pipe bursting and epoxy lining systems are designed to last 50+ years when installed correctly.

Is trenchless sewer replacement always possible?

No. Severely collapsed pipes may require pipe bursting instead of lining. This is why early inspection is critical.

Which is better: pipe bursting or epoxy lining?

Neither is universally better. The correct method depends on the pipe material and condition. Orangeburg pipes typically require pipe bursting, while structurally intact pipes are ideal for epoxy lining.

Final Thoughts

For homeowners searching for sewer line replacement in Southern California, trenchless solutions are often the most effective, least disruptive option—when performed by an experienced, properly licensed contractor.

With over four decades of experience serving the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, our focus has always been the same: recommend the right solution for the home, not the most invasive one.

Ready to get started?

Book an appointment today.

(909) 737-6721