Need to replace a cast iron waste pipe and main sewer line and trap.Is this estimate right? Should I replace?

Question

The plumber estimates replacing a rusted iron cast waste pipe that is about 20 feet long and exposed for $2600. That includes replacing with a pvc material. I know I need to get this done because the rust is so bad its starting to drip.

However, he notcied that the main sewer and trap line out to the public system needs to replaced soon as well. They would have to dig up my driveway for that. They estimate $3500 for that job.

Are these estimates in the ball park? If the waste started rusting out, I am assuming the main line out to the public is bad too, but can I wait until next year to replace before it becomes a problem? If I wait and it backsup, will it be more money to replace later than now? I just dont have the money to do the $3500 job, but need to know if this is immediate need? Thanks for your help.

Answer 1

Dude you're getting hosed. If the pipe inside is exposed and easy acces without any any other pipes running into this main line, 500 bucks tops. But this is only if it's exposed and a straight shot out of the house or with little bends. The outside bid is reasonable. That's about what anybody charges. Good luck. with a sawzall some pipe and mission bands you could do the job yourself..... my advise call around for the best price

Answer 2

is it exposed  where ? like exposed running along the basement wall  ?or exposed running through a crawlspace ?  are there  any other pipes coming into this 20 foot run of drain line ?  lots of variables in this  . still seems very high  , but what do plumbers charge in your area, in my area plumbers start at 75 an hour to others who charge 140  to others who charge flat rate  . if the drain line is a straight run across the basement  with no other pipes coming into it shoudl be a rather quick job with very little  time involved .sounds more like an 600 dollar job if so

Answer 3

2500 for 20 ft RIP OFF RIP OFF, call others, independant plumbers are probably cheaper!! If you haven't had backups with sewer line then leave it alone!! 3500 seems ok for sewer price due to backhoe rental, inspection and covering it back up afterwards. See if he will do both for 3500.

Answer 4

Connecting new pipework to a suspect sewer and trap line will inevitably throw a strain on the old piping.

Ask your plumber how soon is "soon"If the sewer fails and backs up,it'll be an emergency and you'll have to pay whatever is needed to get the job done. Shop around for quotes,check with the guy you're dealing with the price for doing both jobs now,it may be cheaper,maybe he'll cut you a deal.