What to Expect Before, During, and After Trenchless Sewer Replacement
Trenchless sewer replacement can feel unfamiliar because much of the work happens underground with only small access points. The best way to reduce stress is to understand the timeline and what you need to do at each phase, from inspection to documentation.
Before Work Starts: Inspection, Scope, and Permits
Most trenchless sewer projects begin with a camera inspection to confirm the problem and determine whether lining, bursting, or another method makes sense. Your contractor should explain what failed, where it failed, and what will be repaired versus replaced. Ehret’s service page summarizes how trenchless methods work as an alternative to full excavation.
Permits matter because sewer laterals often cross public right of way. San Francisco Public Works, for example, describes side sewer permits and when they apply.
If you are unsure who is responsible for which segment of the lateral, SFPUC explains lateral responsibility and what to do when a lower lateral issue is suspected.
During the Work: Access Points, Protection, and Timeline
On the day of plumbing service, expect setup that protects the work area and creates safe access to the line. The crew may use existing cleanouts or create small entry points. Noise, equipment staging, and limited water use may be part of the day depending on the method selected. If your home has a single main line and the work requires temporary shutdown, plan errands, meals, and restroom needs accordingly.
A clear scope helps avoid surprises. If additional issues are discovered, ask what changed, what options exist, and how pricing will be documented before the plan expands.
After the Repair: Verification and Paperwork You Should Keep
Completion is not only “the line flows again.” You want proof of what was done. A post-work camera inspection is often the clearest record because it shows continuity, connections, and whether offsets remain. Ask what maintenance is recommended and whether roots, grease, or older branch lines require ongoing care.
If you are deciding how trenchless compares to traditional digging, this internal explainer covers why trenchless methods often reduce repair time and surface disruption. For cases where damage is limited, sewer cleaning and repair services may still be part of the solution set, especially when inspection shows a targeted problem instead of full failure.
Homeowner Checklist for a Smoother Project
Save inspection findings, photos, and a short timeline of symptoms.
Ask whether permits are needed and who pulls them for your jurisdiction.
Confirm access points, parking needs, and any temporary water-use limits.
Protect valuables near work areas and plan for a quieter day at home.
Request a post-work camera inspection record and keep warranties and invoices together.
Trenchless sewer replacement is usually easiest when you treat it as a documented process: confirm scope, confirm permitting, prepare for day-of access, and keep the after-work proof. When you have clear records, you reduce future confusion about what was replaced and make the next maintenance decision simpler.