How to save $13,000 on a sewer main repair

[Dan Krupa]

Background: Our client bought a fourplex property (two duplexes) two years ago, and an inspection showed the sewer main on one unit was bad. We negotiated the purchase price down by $50,000. Recently, the sewer line started to back up, and we knew it was time to replace it. The bid for the 71-foot-long sewer main, located under garage slabs, driveway concrete, and the road, was between $25,000 to $30,000. 

If you face similar issues in KCMO, here are some recommendations. Purchase KCMO sewer main line insurance when you buy the property. Be familiar with the city's code. In KCMO, the city will make necessary repairs to a private sewer main in a public easement if it fails within 24 hours of the emergency. This coverage extends to the last 9 feet of the sewer line under the road. (big cost savings) Also, leverage your contractors. We have a team of reliable contractors who can help with everything, including removing concrete for the plumber and pouring it back in to save costs. Plumbers want to pull a permit, do the line replacement, and move on. Most prefer not to be burdened with concrete work.

Knowing the city code and leveraging our contractors, we could replace 62' feet of sewer main for $11,800. This includes the permit, a new floor drain and p trap in the garage, and a metal clean-out in the driveway for easy future access if the line is clogged. 

 Do you have any other suggestions for dealing with expensive sewer main repairs?

[Tom Fidrych]

I got quotes for $12-14K to replace a 50' sewer line that was 2' deep so coordinated it myself. Hired a concrete saw guy to cut the concrete driveway, excavator guy dug the trench, hauled some dirt away and dumped a load of base-rock to fill trench. I hooked up the 4" ABS line with cleanout. The next day the city inspector came out and I did the pressure check, then I back filled with a shovel(this was the toughest part but a good workout) and compacted.  Day 3 the concrete truck showed up and the driveway was done. It cost $2K so I considered it a 3 day paycheck of $10K. Had a portable toilet dropped for the 3 days too .

I wouldn't do it myself on deeper trenches as shoring will be needed.