Question 1

When does a sewer line need to be replaced rather than repaired?

Accepted Answer

Replacement is indicated when camera inspection confirms: a fully collapsed pipe section where the camera cannot pass, widespread structural failure along most of the lateral's length, a pipe diameter too compromised by corrosion or root consumption for a CIPP liner to restore adequate flow, multiple severe fracture points where lining cost approaches or exceeds replacement cost, or a severely bellied section that lining cannot correct. Bison never recommends replacement without camera footage that specifically justifies it.

Question 2

What is trenchless pipe bursting and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

Pipe bursting is a trenchless replacement method where a bursting head — slightly larger than the existing pipe diameter — is pulled through the old pipe by a winch system. As the head advances, it fractures the old pipe outward into the surrounding soil while simultaneously pulling new HDPE pipe into the void left behind. Only two small access pits are required at each end of the lateral — no open trench along the pipe run, no yard excavation, and no landscaping disruption above the pipe path.

Question 3

How much does sewer line replacement cost in Michigan?

Accepted Answer

Trenchless pipe bursting runs $8,000–$18,000 for a typical residential lateral in Macomb and Oakland County. Traditional open-trench replacement runs $10,000–$25,000+ depending on pipe depth, length, and site complexity. GreenSky financing (Ref: 81085618) is available for same-day approval. All pricing is upfront after camera inspection defines the scope and confirms replacement is warranted.

Question 4

Who is responsible for the sewer line from the house to the street?

Accepted Answer

The sewer lateral — the pipe running from your home's foundation to the municipal connection point in the street — is entirely the homeowner's financial responsibility. The municipal sewer main in the street is maintained by the city or county. Standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover sewer line replacement unless a specific service line endorsement has been added to the policy.

Question 5

How long does sewer line replacement take?

Accepted Answer

Trenchless pipe bursting for a typical residential lateral (50–80 feet) can be completed in one day — two small access pits, bursting head pulled through, new HDPE pipe installed, pits backfilled. Traditional open-trench replacement typically takes 2–4 days depending on pipe depth and length — excavation, pipe removal, new pipe installation, backfill, and surface restoration. Both methods require a Michigan LARA licensed plumber to perform the connection work at the municipal access point.