- HEP
- Professional Service
Professional Service
Professional Service | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Philadelphia
When main line issues back up sinks, tubs, and toilets across your Philadelphia property, HEP’s master plumbers leap into action. Armed with live-feed camera scopes and powerhouse hydro-jetters, we locate the clog, root intrusion, or pipe collapse in minutes and restore flow without tearing up your yard or basement.
From emergency midnight floods in Fishtown to scheduled cleanouts in Chestnut Hill, we treat every job like it’s happening in our own home: transparent pricing, courteous techs, and a tidy workspace. Trust HEP to solve your main line issues today and keep your plumbing future-proof for years to come.
FAQs
What are the most common signs that my home’s main sewer line is clogged or damaged?
Slow drainage or gurgling in multiple fixtures, water backing up in the basement or lowest drain, foul odors coming from floor drains, and soggy patches in the yard are the most frequent indicators. Because Philadelphia’s older clay and cast-iron lines are prone to root intrusion and collapse, these symptoms should be evaluated promptly by a licensed plumber with a sewer camera.
How quickly can you respond to a main line emergency in Philadelphia?
We provide 24/7 emergency service within the city. For most ZIP codes inside Philadelphia County we can have a technician on-site within 60–90 minutes. Our trucks are stocked with hydro-jetting equipment and sectional sewer machines so we can begin clearing or diagnosing the blockage immediately.
Do I need a permit from the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) for main line repairs or replacements?
Yes. Any replacement of a sewer lateral from the house to the curb, or work performed in the public right-of-way, requires a PWD permit and sometimes Streets Department approval. Our team handles the permit application, scheduling of city inspections, and submission of as-built drawings so you stay compliant without added stress.
What repair methods do you offer, and is trenchless replacement available in Philly?
After a video inspection we can recommend hydro-jetting, localized pipe lining (cured-in-place), pipe bursting, or traditional open-cut replacement. Trenchless lining and bursting are available in many Philadelphia neighborhoods, provided the pipe is the correct diameter and there is adequate access at both ends. These minimally invasive options preserve sidewalks and landscaping.
How much does main sewer line replacement typically cost in Philadelphia?
Pricing depends on pipe length, depth, material, and whether trenchless technology is feasible. On average, open-cut replacements run $125–$225 per linear foot, while trenchless lining ranges from $90–$160 per linear foot. We supply a detailed written estimate after the camera inspection and always provide multiple cost-saving options when possible.
What preventative maintenance can reduce future main line issues?
Annual or semi-annual hydro-jetting, especially in tree-lined Philly streets, keeps roots and grease from building up. Avoid flushing wipes, feminine products, and grease, and install a main line backwater valve if your basement has experienced backups during heavy rain. Regular camera inspections allow us to monitor pipe condition and catch minor issues before they become costly repairs.