Drains & Sewer · Des Moines, IA
Sewer Line Repair in Des Moines, IA
72% of homes in the Des Moines ZIP codes we cover were built before 1980, when cast iron, clay and early fiber sewer pipe were the norm. Sewer line repair starts with a camera inspection, then a spot repair, trenchless lining or replacement.
- Same-day service when a plumber is available
- 6 ZIP codes covered
- Quote before work
Des Moines's older sewer laterals
Pre-1980 housing here is 72%, above the Iowa figure of 62%. That ranks 1st highest of the 11 Iowa cities we profile. Clay pipe lets roots in at the joints, cast iron scales and cracks, and the line from the house to the street belongs to the homeowner in most places.
62% of homes are detached houses with their own lateral, so a backup that keeps coming back is usually worth a camera inspection rather than another snaking.
In Iowa: Deep frost and long winters make frozen pipes and freeze-proof hydrants a recurring issue.
Permits
Excavation in the yard or street needs a permit, and someone has to call 811 first to get utilities marked.
Des Moines figures behind this page
- Built before 1960
- 45%
- Built 1960–1979
- 27%
- Single-family detached
- 62%
What affects the price
- Length and depth
- Under slab or basement floor vs. yard
- Trenchless suitability
- Hardscape, rock and tree roots
The plumber quotes on site, before any work starts.
How the job works
Signs, the step-by-step process, cost factors and what you can safely do yourself are on our sewer line repair guide. For the rest of Des Moines's plumbing picture, see plumbers in Des Moines and freeze & flood protection in Des Moines.
Sewer Line Repair in Des Moines: FAQ
Who owns the sewer line to my Des Moines home?
In most cities the homeowner owns the lateral from the house to the public main, sometimes including the connection at the main. Your city's public works department can confirm where its responsibility starts.
Figures are US Census Bureau ACS 2023 5-year estimates for the ZIP code areas we cover in Des Moines; state comparisons use the Iowa statewide estimate.
Related services
Need sewer line repair in Des Moines?
Same-day service when a plumber is available. One call connects you with a licensed plumber who serves your ZIP.