What is Trenchless Drain Repair and How Much will it Cost Me?

Nobody wants to think about their drains until something goes wrong. One day you’re happily going about your business, and the next you’re dealing with mysterious gurgling sounds, slow drainage, or worse—a complete blockage that has you reaching for the phone in desperation.

At BDS Drainage, we’ve seen it all. From minor pipe hiccups in a sewer pipe to major underground disasters, we understand that drain problems can turn your world upside down. But here’s the good news: modern trenchless drain repair technology means fixing your pipes doesn’t have to involve turning your garden into an archaeological dig site.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about trenchless drain repair, from understanding the process to working out what it might cost you. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision about your drain repair needs.

What is trenchless drain repair?

Traditional drain repair could be a nightmare scenario. Engineers might arrive with diggers, tear up your driveway, destroy your prized rose bushes, and leave you with a garden that looked like a construction zone. The whole process could take days or even weeks, with costs spiralling as quickly as the mess in your garden.

Trenchless drain repair work changed all that. This innovative approach allows drainage specialists to fix or replace your pipes without the extensive digging that traditional methods require. Instead of excavating the entire length of the damaged pipe, technicians only need small access points when fixing underground pipes and completing repairs.

The benefits are impressive:

Minimal disruption

Your landscaping, driveway, and daily routine remain largely intact

Faster completion

Most jobs finish within a day or two

Cost effective

Reduced labour and restoration costs

Durable results

Modern materials often last longer than traditional pipes

Reduced environmental impact

Trenchless drain repair reduces environmental impact by minimising soil disruption and preserving local ecosystems through small access points instead of extensive digging.

Methods of trenchless drain repair

Trenchless drain repair includes two main methods: pipe relining, which inserts a liner into the existing pipe, and pipe bursting, which breaks the old pipe and replaces it simultaneously.

Drain relining/ Pipe lining

Pipe relining is like giving your drain a new lease of life from the inside out. The process involves inserting a flexible liner coated with resin into the existing pipe wall. Once in position, the liner is inflated and cured, creating a seamless new pipe within the old one — known as a cured in place pipe.

Trenchless pipe repair works brilliantly for pipes with cracks, minor collapses, or root intrusion. The new liner is typically made from materials like fibreglass or felt, which become incredibly strong once the resin hardens. Most relined pipes come with warranties of 50 years or more.

The main limitation? If your pipe has completely collapsed or has major structural issues, relining might not be sufficient.

Pipe bursting

When your existing pipe is beyond salvation, pipe bursting might be the answer. This technique involves pulling a new pipe through the old one whilst simultaneously breaking apart the damaged pipe. The old pipe fragments are pushed into the surrounding soil, making room for the replacement.

Pipe bursting works well for severely damaged pipes and can even accommodate larger diameter replacements. However, it’s generally more expensive than relining and requires more specialised equipment.

Both methods require skilled technicians and proper equipment, so choosing an experienced provider like BDS Drainage is crucial for success.

Factors affecting the cost

The cost of trenchless drain repair depends on several variables, much like buying a car depends on the make, model, and features you choose.

Type of repair needed: Pipe relining typically costs less than pipe bursting, but the choice depends on your pipe’s condition rather than your budget preferences.

Pipe specifications: Longer pipes cost more to repair, as do larger diameter pipes. A 50-metre sewer line will obviously cost more than a 10-metre section.

Materials used: High-quality liners and pipes cost more upfront but often provide better long-term value through increased durability.

Job complexity: Pipes in awkward locations, deep underground, or with multiple bends require more time and expertise, affecting the price.

Geographic location: Costs vary across different regions, with urban areas typically commanding higher prices than rural locations.

Additional services: CCTV inspections, pipe cleaning, and post-repair testing may add to the total cost but are often essential for a complete solution.

Trenchless drain repair cost

For most residential trenchless drain repair jobs, you can expect to pay between £150-£500 per metre, depending on the factors mentioned above. A typical household repair might range from £1,500 to £4,000, though complex jobs can cost more.

Compared to traditional excavation methods, trenchless repair often provides better value. When you factor in the costs of digging, restoration, landscaping, and potential structural repairs to driveways or patios, traditional methods can easily exceed trenchless costs.

The long-term benefits make the investment even more attractive. Modern trenchless repairs typically last 50-100 years, compared to 20-30 years for traditional pipe repairs. This longevity means fewer future repairs and lower lifetime costs.

When to consider trenchless drain repair

Several warning signs suggest your drains might need professional attention:

Slow drainage: If water takes ages to disappear down your sinks, showers, or toilets, you might have a blockage or pipe damage.

Unusual sounds: Gurgling, bubbling, or other strange noises from your drains often indicate air trapped by blockages or damage.

Unpleasant odours: Persistent sewage smells suggest problems with your drainage system.

Pipe age and material: Older pipes, particularly clay or cast iron ones, are more prone to problems and might benefit from proactive replacement.

Environmental considerations: If your pipes run under valuable landscaping, structures, or environmentally sensitive areas, trenchless repair makes perfect sense.

Choosing a trenchless drain repair service

Selecting the right drainage company is crucial for a successful repair. Here’s what to look for:

Proper licensing and insurance: Ensure your chosen company holds relevant certifications and carries adequate insurance coverage.

Reputation and reviews: Check online reviews, ask for references, and verify the company’s track record with similar projects.

Multiple quotes: Get quotes from several providers to ensure fair pricing, but remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value.

Warranty coverage: Reputable companies offer warranties on their work, providing peace of mind for your investment.

Transparent pricing: Avoid companies that won’t provide clear, detailed quotes or seem evasive about costs.

Making the smart choice for your drains

Trenchless drain repair represents a significant advancement in drainage technology, offering homeowners a less disruptive, more cost-effective solution to pipe problems. While the upfront costs might seem substantial, the long-term benefits—including durability, minimal disruption, and reduced future maintenance—make it an intelligent investment.

The key to success lies in choosing the right repair method for your specific situation and working with experienced professionals who can deliver quality results.

BDS Drainage: Your trenchless repair experts

At BDS Drainage, we’ve built our reputation on providing innovative drainage solutions that make sense for our customers. Our team brings years of experience in trenchless repair techniques, combined with a commitment to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.

We understand that drain problems can be stressful, which is why we focus on clear communication, transparent pricing, and minimal disruption to your daily life. From initial inspection to completed repair, we’re with you every step of the way.

Ready to solve your drainage problems the modern way? Contact BDS Drainage today for a professional inspection and detailed quote. Your drains—and your garden—will thank you.