Sewer Repair in Seattle, WA — From Trenchless Pipe Lining to Full Replacement, We Do It Right The First Time
*20 year transferrable warranty on all sewer repairs*
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High-Quality Sewer Repair Services
When your sewer line fails, you need a team that knows how to diagnose, clean, and repair the problem quickly — the right way the first time. Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter provides expert sewer repair in Seattle and the surrounding area, combining modern trenchless technology with decades of hands-on field experience.
As a licensed Registered Side Sewer Contractor (RSSC), we handle every aspect of repair — from inspection to permitting and restoration — delivering long-lasting solutions for both residential and commercial properties.
The Bob Oates underground team with GM John Peterson after another successful sewer repair job.
Pinpointing the Problem
The first step in any repair is finding the source of the issue. Using a state-of-the-art sewer camera inspection, our technicians feed a high-definition camera through your sewer line from the cleanout to the city main. This lets us see cracks, corrosion, offset joints, root intrusion, and other damage in real time — without digging.
Once we have the footage, we’ll explain what’s happening inside your line and outline the best path forward — whether that means cleaning, trenchless repair, or a full replacement.
Bob Oates is proud to offer a free initial sewer camera-guided evaluation from an outside cleanout. Give us a call or schedule online at your convenience.
Thorough Sewer Cleaning and Preparation
Before any repair, we make sure the line is completely clear. This is not the same as snaking a household drain — sewer cleaning is a specialized process that restores flow through large underground pipes.
We use rotating cutter blades to remove thick root masses and hardened blockages, followed by high-pressure hydro jetting that scours the pipe walls clean without damaging the material. The result is a clean, open line that allows for accurate re-inspection and proper pipe lining.
This step ensures repairs bond correctly and prevents recurring backups. Many customers are surprised to learn that a deep sewer cleaning can sometimes resolve their immediate issue — but when it doesn’t, we’re prepared for the next step.
Trenchless Sewer Repair — A Modern, Minimal-Dig Solution
When a section of your sewer is cracked, broken, or offset, our trenchless repair methods let us fix it internally without digging up your property. Depending on what we find, we may use:
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Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining: A flexible epoxy liner is inserted and hardened with UV light, forming a smooth, corrosion-resistant new pipe inside the old one.
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Pipe bursting: For severely damaged lines, we pull a new HDPE pipe through the existing channel, bursting the old pipe outward while replacing it simultaneously.
Both methods restore flow fast — often in a single day — and protect your yard, landscaping, and pavement from unnecessary excavation.
Learn more about the financial and environmental advantages of trenchless pipe repair.
Traditional Excavation and Full Replacement
Not every situation can be solved with trenchless repair. Sometimes the sewer line damage is too severe — collapsed pipes, extreme offset joints, or sections obstructed by other utilities may require open trench access.
In those cases, our team performs traditional excavation with precision and care. We coordinate with public works for permits, dig only where necessary, and replace the damaged section with Schedule 40 PVC or equivalent — the highest-quality pipe material in the industry.
After the replacement, we restore the surrounding area to its original condition and perform a post-repair camera inspection to confirm everything is flowing properly.
Our skilled tech breaks through flooring to create access for sewer line replacement.
Whether the solution involves a single-spot fix or a complete sewer line replacement, you can count on Bob Oates for honest recommendations and professional workmanship.
When to Call for Sewer Repair
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have your system inspected:
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Slow-draining fixtures or gurgling sounds
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Sewage odors in or around your home
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Unexplained wet spots or pooling water outdoors
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Recurring sewer backups after temporary fixes
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Sewer lines older than 40–50 years, especially if they're concrete pipes
Even small issues can escalate quickly, so it’s best to address them early. Our technicians will walk you through every option and help you decide what’s right for your property and budget.
A sewer line failure is often visible as a lush green stripe cutting through an otherwise brown yard.
Why Homeowners and Businesses Choose Bob Oates
For over 30 years, Seattle-area homeowners and businesses have trusted Bob Oates to keep their sewer systems flowing. We combine the responsiveness of a local, family-owned business with the advanced equipment and training of a large operation.
What Sets Us Apart:
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Fast, Local Service: Crews are dispatched daily from our Seattle base — we handle emergencies quickly.
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Full-Service Capability: From deep sewer cleaning to full line replacement, we do it all in-house.
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Advanced Technology: We invest in modern trenchless tools and UV curing systems for minimal disruption.
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Transparent Pricing: You’ll always receive clear, upfront costs before work begins.
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Guaranteed Workmanship: Every repair is backed by our 20-year warranty on all parts and labor.
- Home of the Free Second Opinion! We'll happily review any written estimate and offer a competitive bid. Includes a camera evaluation from an accessible cleanout.
Every repair comes with the peace of mind that it's backed by the best warranty in the business!
Serving the Greater Seattle Area
We proudly serve residential and commercial clients across communities throughout King, Snohomish, and Pierce Counties:
Get in Touch with Us Today!
“Hire the best employees. Buy the best equipment. And offer customers permanent, long-term solutions to their drain problems.”
Learn more about the Bob Oates philosophy by checking out Bob’s profile piece in Cleaner Magazine!
If you’re experiencing slow drains, sewer odors, or recurring backups, call 206-789-4944 or book a sewer inspection online today.
From precision diagnostics to lasting repairs, Bob Oates Plumbing, Sewer & Rooter delivers the experience, technology, and care your property deserves!
FAQs About Sewer Repair
What are the common signs I need sewer repair?
Frequent drain backups, gurgling toilets, sewage odors, wet spots in the yard, or multiple fixtures draining slowly usually point to a sewer line problem.
What typically causes sewer line damage in Seattle?
Age and corrosion in older clay, concrete, or cast-iron pipes, root intrusion from mature trees, ground movement, and heavy surface loads are the most common causes.
How is sewer repair done — trenchless or excavation?
We start with a camera inspection. When conditions allow, trenchless methods like lining or pipe bursting repair the pipe with minimal digging. If the pipe is severely collapsed or misaligned, traditional excavation may be required.
Do I need permits for sewer repair or side sewer work?
Yes. Seattle side sewer repairs usually require permits. We handle the permitting process and follow local codes.
How long does sewer repair take?
Simple trenchless jobs can often be completed in a day. More complex projects, or those requiring excavation and restoration, may take longer depending on site conditions.
Will my yard, driveway, or sidewalk be affected?
Trenchless repairs use small access points, minimizing surface disruption. If excavation is needed, we discuss restoration plans in advance.
Rated 5 Stars by Johanna G.
via Yelp.com
"Nothing but great experiences with Bob Oates! Would highly recommend for all your sewer and plumbing needs! Honest, hard working company!"
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