Older neighborhoods in Reno have a lot of character—but like many homes built around the 1960s and before also come with aging sewer lines that eventually need attention. This case study walks through a real sewer line replacement project we completed for a homeowner who first called us as a first-time buyer, and later relied on us again when the sewer line finally failed just as predicted.
The Initial Sewer Camera Inspection (Before the Home Purchase)
Our relationship with this customer started before he even owned the home. As part of the buying process, he scheduled a sewer camera inspection with our team. Homes built in the 1960s commonly have clay or cast iron sewer pipes, both of which are prone to cracking, root intrusion, and eventual collapse.
During the inspection, we found:
- Significant root intrusions throughout the sewer line
- Several bellies
- Aging pipe material showing clear signs of deterioration
- Overall structural concerns that indicated the line was nearing the end of its lifespan
At that time, we explained the homeowner’s options clearly and honestly:
- Short-term solution: Clean and clear the sewer line of roots and debris to restore proper flow.
- Preventative option: Clean the line and install a liner using pipe relining to slow future root intrusions.
- Long-term reality: Based on the condition of the pipe, a full sewer line replacement would eventually be necessary.
In the top image, you’ll see one of the root intrusions we found at 23ft and in the bottom image, you’ll see a belly in the sewer line that we found at 39ft.
Because we documented everything with video, the buyer was able to use our findings to negotiate a credit from the seller at closing—an important win for a first-time homeowner.
Temporary Sewer Line Repair to Buy Time
After purchasing the home, the customer chose to move forward with a thorough cleaning and clearing of the line. This approach served as a practical sewer line repair that allowed him to live in the home without immediate disruption while planning for future replacement.
For the next three years, the sewer system performed as expected. However, just as we had warned during the original inspection, the underlying condition of the pipe continued to worsen underground.
Three Years Later: A Collapsed Sewer Line
About three years after moving in, the homeowner contacted us again—this time with symptoms of a serious sewer problem. Another camera inspection confirmed what we anticipated from the start: the sewer line had collapsed.
At this stage, fixing a sewer pipe with spot repairs or pipe relining was no longer an option. The only permanent and reliable solution was a full sewer line replacement.
Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement in the Front Yard
To minimize disruption to the property, we recommended a trenchless plumbing approach. This allowed us to replace approximately 60 feet of sewer line running through the front yard without the extensive digging associated with traditional excavation methods.
Benefits of Trenchless Sewer Line Replacement:
- Minimal damage to landscaping
- Faster project completion
- Long-lasting, modern pipe materials
- Reduced restoration costs
Our crew completed the replacement efficiently and professionally, keeping the homeowner informed throughout the process. Once installed, the new sewer line restored full functionality and eliminated the risk of future collapses or root intrusion issues.
The Results: A Reliable Sewer System
Since the trenchless sewer line replacement, the homeowner’s sewer system has been operating flawlessly. The new line provides peace of mind and long-term reliability—something especially important in older Reno neighborhoods where original sewer infrastructure is often reaching the end of its useful life.
What the Homeowner Had to Say
“I recommend Rooter Man Plumbing to all my friends, family and anyone else out here. They were extremely professional and made the entire process of replacing my sewer line a breeze (and it was a big project, I watched part of the process when I got home from work one of the days). From doing the initial sewer camera inspection when I bought the house, to then replacing the entire sewer line, Rooter Man has been my go to plumbers in Reno. I was a first time home buyer and got so much valuable insight from them (they went above and beyond when doing an inspection for me). Thanks so much guys!”
Serving Reno & Carson City Homeowners
This project is a great example of why proactive inspections and honest recommendations matter. Whether you need a camera inspection, sewer line repair, pipe relining, or a full sewer line replacement, working with an experienced local plumber can save you time, money, and stress—especially in older homes.
If you live in Reno, Carson City, or the surrounding areas and are experiencing sewer issues—or want peace of mind before buying a home—our team is here to help with professional solutions and transparent guidance every step of the way. Always look to hire licensed plumbers like us at Rooter Man Plumbing to get the job done correctly the first time.