What it is
Cured in place pipe lining is a method of sewer repair in which a flexible liner, saturated with a resin, is placed inside an existing pipe. Once the liner is in position, the resin hardens (cures), forming a new, jointless pipe within the old one.
Contractors may use hot water, steam, or light to cure the resin, depending on the product and the project. The liner is typically positioned through an existing access point such as a cleanout, so the work may require less surface digging than a full replacement.
CIPP is often discussed for pipes with cracks, minor leaks, worn joints, or root intrusion where the pipe is still largely in place. Whether it suits a particular pipe depends on its condition, material, layout and local rules, which only a licensed contractor can assess.
How it’s traditionally been approached
Traditionally, sewer repair meant open-trench excavation: digging along the pipe's path, removing the damaged section, and installing new pipe. This approach is well established and allows direct access to the line. It can also involve disturbing lawns, driveways, landscaping or other structures above the pipe.
Trenchless options developed as alternatives for some situations. Besides cured in place pipe lining, these can include pipe bursting, where a new pipe is pulled through as the old one is broken apart. Each method has different strengths, and contractors often choose based on what they find inside the line.
None of these approaches is right for every property. Pipe condition, depth, collapse, severe misalignment, access, and local requirements all influence which option a contractor may recommend. Permit and code requirements vary by city, county and state, so confirm them locally.
How the right sewer contractor may help
A licensed sewer contractor may begin by talking with you about symptoms such as slow drains, recurring clogs, odors or past backups. They may then use a camera inspection to look inside the line and see its material, condition and any problems. This helps show whether lining, bursting, spot repair or replacement could be worth considering.
Useful questions to ask include: What did the inspection show? Why do you think lining is or is not suitable here? What materials and curing method would be used? How would branch connections be handled? What warranty terms apply, and what is in writing? Ask for these details in a written quote, because only a licensed contractor can price your specific project.
You may also ask about permits, inspections, how the contractor handles utility locating, and what disruption to expect in your home. Getting more than one opinion can help you compare approaches. No contractor can guarantee a particular method, timeline or outcome before seeing your line.
The bigger picture
Sewer problems can be stressful. Worry about a possible backup, an unknown expense, or a torn-up yard can weigh on your sleep and your household's routine. Taking time to learn the options, ask questions and understand what an inspection shows may help you feel more steady about the decision.
It can also help to think about the whole picture: your budget, your timeline, your property, and your peace of mind. If financial planning feels heavy, resources such as Providers.plus may help you find supportive services. No single repair approach is better in every case, and each deserves respect for what it can do.
Keep in mind
- If sewage backs up, avoid contact with it, stop using affected drains and toilets, and call a licensed sewer contractor right away, because backups are a health hazard.
- Call 811 (or your local utility-locate service) before any digging or excavation work, including access pits for trenchless repair.
- Permit requirements, plumbing codes and septic-to-sewer conversion rules vary by city, county and state, so confirm them with your local authorities.
- This page is educational only and is not plumbing, engineering or legal advice. Only a licensed contractor can quote costs, methods and timelines for your project.
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Frequently asked questions
What is cured in place pipe lining?
Cured in place pipe lining (CIPP) is a trenchless sewer repair method that places a resin-saturated liner inside an existing pipe and hardens it to form a new pipe surface. It is used on some damaged pipes without full excavation. A licensed contractor must decide if it suits your line.
How does cured in place pipe lining work?
A contractor generally inspects and cleans the pipe, then inserts a resin-soaked liner through an access point. The liner is expanded against the pipe walls and cured using heat or light. Exact steps vary by contractor, product and site conditions.
Is cured in place pipe lining the same as sewer repair by digging?
No, cured in place pipe lining is one type of sewer repair, while digging (open-trench) replaces the pipe by excavation. Lining may involve less surface disturbance in some cases, but it is not suitable for every pipe. A contractor can explain which fits your situation.
What kinds of problems can pipe lining address?
Pipe lining is often considered for cracks, leaking joints and root intrusion in pipes that are still mostly intact. It may not be appropriate for collapsed or badly misaligned pipes. A camera inspection by a licensed contractor can help show what is possible.
How much does cured in place pipe lining cost?
Cost depends on your specific project, so only a licensed sewer contractor can quote it after assessing your line. Factors such as pipe length, condition, access and local requirements can all play a role. Asking for a written quote from more than one contractor may help you compare.
Do I need a permit or to call 811 for pipe lining?
Permit rules vary by city, county and state, so confirm requirements with your local authorities or contractor. Call 811 or your local utility-locate service before any digging, including access pits. Even trenchless work sometimes requires some excavation.
Educational resource. Sewer.biz shares general information and connects people with independent sewer contractors. It is not professional advice. Talk with a qualified professional about your own situation.