How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Sewer Line in Melbourne?

Intro

Full sewer replacement is the biggest plumbing job a homeowner ever faces. Before you accept a dig-and-replace quote, you should know whether relining can solve it for a fraction of the cost (see Article 3 in our first 10).

Typical 2026 dig-and-replace ranges

Short run (under 5m, easy access): $4,500 – $8,500.

Standard suburban run (5–15m, side of house): $8,500 – $18,000.

Under driveway/concrete (with reinstatement): $14,000 – $30,000.

Under house or deep mains tie-in: $18,000 – $45,000+.

What's actually included in those numbers

CCTV survey and locate before digging.

Council/Yarra Valley Water permits where required.

Excavation, spoil removal, new PVC, bedding, backfill.

Surface reinstatement (concrete, pavers, turf — itemised).

Compliance certificate and as-built diagram.

When relining beats replacement

Pipe is broken or root-invaded but the line and falls are intact.

The pipe is under a driveway, slab, mature tree or paving.

You need it done in a day with no excavation.

Relining typically runs $4,500–$12,000 for the same length — often half the dig cost or less.

> Our rule: we will only quote dig-and-replace after a CCTV inspection proves relining isn't suitable. You'll see the footage either way.

FAQ

### Will my insurance cover it?

Sometimes — for sudden damage, not gradual deterioration. Get a CCTV report; insurers ask for it.

How long without a working toilet?

Replacement: 1–3 days. Relining: usually back online same day.

Call to action

Need help right now? Book online or call J.O. Plumbing 24/7 for upfront pricing and same-day service across Melbourne.