The duration required for lateral sewer line replacement can significantly vary, depending on several key factors including the replacement method chosen, the length and accessibility of the sewer line, and any unforeseen complications that may arise during the process. Traditional trenching methods, where a trench is dug along the entire length of the existing sewer line for its removal and replacement, generally take longer—often several days to a week. This is due to the extensive excavation and subsequent landscaping restoration work required.

On the other hand, trenchless methods such as pipe bursting or pipe lining are usually quicker, potentially completing the job in one to two days. These methods involve less digging, thereby reducing the time needed for both the actual sewer line replacement and the post-job cleanup and restoration. However, the specific circumstances of the site, such as the presence of hard-to-bypass obstacles (like large rocks or concrete), the depth of the sewer line, and the length of the pipe being replaced, can all influence the overall timeline of the project.