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Is Drain Repair Cheaper Than Drain Replacement?

Home — Blog — Is Drain Repair Cheaper Than Drain Replacement?

Drainage Problem

When you discover a drainage problem, the first worry is often the cost. Many homeowners ask: “Will a repair be enough, or will I need a full replacement?” The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on the severity of the issue, the condition of the pipework, and your long-term plans for the property.

In this blog, we’ll break down the real costs of drain repair vs drain replacement, look at when each option makes sense, and explain how Pitch Fibre Specialists can help you find the most cost-effective solution.

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Understanding the Difference Between Drain Repair and Replacement

What is Drain Repair?

Drain repair focuses on fixing the specific section of pipework that is damaged, without replacing the whole system. This might include:

  • Patch lining: A resin-soaked liner is placed over a crack or small hole to restore pipe strength.

  • Drain relining: A new lining is inserted into the existing pipe, creating a smooth, durable inner surface.

  • Pitch fibre reforming: Old, deformed pipes made from pitch fibre are reshaped and relined for added strength.

These techniques are often described as “no-dig” or trenchless solutions, meaning there’s no need for heavy excavation. Repairs can be carried out quickly and with minimal disruption to your garden or driveway.

What is Drain Replacement?

Drain replacement, on the other hand, involves digging out and removing the damaged pipes entirely. Once the old pipe is removed, brand-new pipework is installed. This method is more invasive and time-consuming, but it’s sometimes the only option when the pipe is beyond repair.

Think of it like fixing a roof: sometimes a patch repair is fine, but if the structure is collapsing, you’ll need a full replacement to protect your home.

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How Much Does Drain Repair Cost in the UK?

One of the biggest benefits of repair is the lower upfront cost. Depending on the issue, you can expect to pay:

  • Small patch repairs – £150–£400. Perfect for minor cracks or isolated defects.

  • Drain relining (per metre) – £60–£100. Relining longer sections of pipe is still more affordable than full replacement.

  • CCTV drain survey – £90–£250. A vital first step to locate and assess the damage before work begins.

This means that if your problem is limited to one or two areas, you could have your drains repaired for under £1,000.

Repairs also save money in indirect ways:

  • Less time on-site means lower labour costs.

  • No need for extensive landscaping work after excavation.

  • Minimal disruption to your home life.

At Pitch Fibre Specialists, we always recommend starting with a cctv drain survey to assess whether a repair will be sufficient before considering more costly work.

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How Much Does Drain Replacement Cost in the UK?

Drain replacement is a larger job with a bigger price tag. Typical costs include:

  • Replacing a small section of drain – £1,000–£2,500.

  • Full excavation and replacement – £4,000–£6,000 (sometimes more for long or deep runs of pipework).

Replacement involves:

  • Excavating the ground to expose the pipes.

  • Removing old, damaged pipework.

  • Installing new, durable pipes.

  • Restoring the area (re-turfing a lawn, re-laying a driveway, etc.).

This makes it more disruptive and time-intensive. However, in some cases, replacement is the only safe and practical solution.

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Is Repair Always Cheaper in the Long Run?

While repair is cheaper upfront, it isn’t always the most cost-effective long-term solution. Here’s why:

  • If your drain has multiple weak spots, repeated repairs can quickly add up to more than a full replacement.

  • Repairs may only last a few years if the pipe is in poor condition overall.

  • In some cases, patch repairs can only delay the inevitable need for full replacement.

For example:

  • If you spend £500 on a patch repair every year for 5 years, that’s £2,500.

  • A full replacement might cost £4,000, but it could last 50+ years with no further costs.

This is why it’s important to get expert advice before deciding. At Pitch Fibre Specialists, we assess not just the current damage, but also the overall health of your drainage system.

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When Is Drain Repair the Best Option?

Drain repair is often the right choice if:

  • The damage is localised to one area.

  • The system is otherwise structurally sound.

  • You want a fast, non-invasive solution.

  • Your budget is limited and you need a reliable fix without excavation.

Repair techniques like drain relining are highly effective for small to moderate issues and can extend the life of your drains by decades.

When Is Drain Replacement Necessary?

Replacement is usually unavoidable when:

  • The drain has collapsed completely.

  • Pipes are badly deformed or corroded (common with old pitch fibre drains).

  • You experience repeated blockages despite past repairs.

  • Your property needs a full upgrade to meet modern standards.

In these cases, replacement is not just a cost issue—it’s about protecting your property. Ignoring a failing system can lead to:

  • Flooding and water damage.

  • Subsidence caused by soil erosion.

  • Health hazards from sewage leaks.

The Risks of Delaying Drain Repairs or Replacement

Delaying action is almost always more expensive in the end. Risks include:

  • Escalating costs – A small crack today could become a full collapse tomorrow.

  • Property damage – Water damage, damp, and even foundation problems.

  • Health and hygiene issues – Sewage leaks cause foul smells and unsafe living conditions.

  • Legal issues – If damaged drains cause problems for neighbours, you may be liable.

A quick repair can often save thousands of pounds compared to waiting until replacement is the only option.

How Pitch Fibre Specialists Can Help

We understand that drainage problems are stressful. That’s why we offer:

  • CCTV drain surveys to diagnose the problem.

  • Tailored repair solutions including relining and pitch fibre pipe reforming.

  • Full replacements where necessary, carried out to the highest standards.

  • Honest advice – we’ll never recommend costly replacement work if a repair will do the job.

Our mission is simple: to give you the right solution at the right price.

FAQs About Drain Repair vs Drain Replacement

1. Is drain repair covered by insurance?
Sometimes. Most insurers cover damage caused by accidents but may exclude wear and tear. It’s always best to check your policy.

2. How long does drain repair take?
Small repairs can take just a few hours, while relining may take a day. Replacement could take several days depending on the scope.

3. How long will a repaired drain last?
With modern techniques like relining, a repaired drain can last up to 50 years, making it almost as durable as new pipes.

4. Can I prevent future problems?
Yes! Regular CCTV inspections and professional cleaning help spot problems early and keep your drains in good condition.

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Final Thoughts

So, is drain repair cheaper than drain replacement? In most cases, yes — but only in the short term.

  • If your drain has minor damage, repair is the smartest choice.

  • If your system is old, collapsing, or repeatedly failing, replacement may save you money and hassle long term.

The only way to know for sure is to arrange a professional survey. At Pitch Fibre Specialists, we’ll help you make the best choice for your home, your budget, and your peace of mind.

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