If you are installing a new water main or sewer it is important to consider the cost benefit of installing both at the same time. In some cases you may be aware that your sewer is broken and must be replaced. If you are assuming the cost associated with permits, excavating, digging etc. it may make sense to replace all of the pipes related to your plumbing system while the ground is open.
The most important factor is to determine if your water main and sewer are located in a common trench, do they exit your home in the same location? If both pipes exit in the same location i.e. a common trench then it make’s sense to weigh the cost benefit of replacing both pipes at once.
The second most important factor to consider is if the city water main is located on the near side of the street, or the opposite side of the street from where your are digging. Even if the main is located on the opposite side of the street it still may make sense to replace both pipes at the same time, it is suggested to get a cost estimate from your licensed plumber.
To be clear, regardless of where the city mains are located it still may make sense to replace both at the same time if both pipes are located in one area of your home. Yes it may cost more if the plumber is required to excavate more in the roadway to install the secondary service however, it will most likely cost a small percentage of the overall price if they are being installed at the same time.
For example, the average 1″ copper water main installation may range from $5,000-$10,000 if you are replacing the water main alone. If you end up replacing the water main with the sewer installation it will most likely end up costing you closer to $5,000 or even less for a standard 30′ installation.
We understand that this may become confusing as there are several variables that will impact the overall cost. It is suggested to contact your licensed master plumber for an on site evaluation to assist in understanding the financial benefit.
