Main Water Line Repair
Quick answer
A main water line leak shows up as a wet or sunken patch in the yard, a water bill that jumps with no change in use, low pressure throughout the house, or a meter that spins with every tap off. HomeAdvisor puts the average repair at about $1,025 and replacement at about $1,713. For a plumber, call (888) 217-6781.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Signs you need a plumber
- A soggy, sunken or unusually green strip of lawn between the street and the house
- A water bill much higher than usual
- Low water pressure at every faucet
- The water meter moving with every faucet and appliance off
- Dirty or rusty water after the line has been quiet
A main line leak that is surfacing or flooding a basement wall needs the water shut off at the street or meter. Call the water utility if you cannot reach the curb valve.
What to check before you call
- Turn off every faucet and appliance, then watch the meter's leak indicator for 15 minutes
- Close the house main: if the meter still moves, the leak is between the meter and the house
- Note the age and material of the line (galvanized, copper, polybutylene, PEX) if you know it
- Ask your water utility whether the line on your side of the meter is yours
What the plumber does
- 1
Locates the leak
Uses acoustic or tracer equipment to pinpoint it so only a small area is dug up.
- 2
Repairs the section
Replaces the failed section or fitting with a coupling and new pipe.
- 3
Or replaces the line
Replaces the whole run by trench or trenchless boring when the pipe is old or failing in several places.
Water line repair cost
| Job | Typical range | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Main line leak repair | $354–$1,696 (average about $1,025) | HomeAdvisor |
| Main line replacement | $646–$2,827 (average about $1,713) | HomeAdvisor |
| Replacement per foot | $50–$150 | HomeAdvisor |
The length of the run, its depth and what sits on top of it are the main price drivers. Sources: HomeAdvisor cost guides (2025).
Ready to book a plumber?
One call reaches a plumbing company taking calls in your ZIP.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Step-by-step guides
Main Water Line Leak: Signs, Repair Costs & Who to Call (2026)
Main water line leaks announce themselves through the meter, the bill, the yard, or the basement wall. The 20-minute meter test confirms it, spot repairs run $500–$1,500, full replacement $1,500–$5,000+ — and this is one job with zero DIY path.
Who to Call for Low Water Pressure in Your House: Plumber, Utility or Leak Detection
A clogged aerator, a failed pressure regulator or a hidden leak: four checks tell you which, and which trade to call.
Water line repair: common questions
Who is responsible for the water line to my house?
Usually the homeowner owns the line from the meter or curb stop to the house, and the utility owns the rest. Your water utility can tell you where the split is.
How do I know if my main water line is leaking?
Turn every faucet and appliance off and watch the meter. If its leak indicator or dial still moves, water is escaping somewhere; closing the house main tells you whether it is outside or inside.
Can a main water line be replaced without digging up the yard?
Often, yes: trenchless boring pulls a new line through with small pits at each end. Rocky soil, tight bends or obstructions can rule it out.
Other plumbing services
(888) 217-6781 is the plumbing line. HearthDry is a referral service; the company you reach is independent.