How much does a sewer cleanout cost?
Sewer cleanout installation cost averages $2,000 to $5,000 for a typical job, according to HomeGuide's 2026 data, with labor, permits and supplies making up most of the bill.
| Typical total (HomeGuide) | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Materials (HomeGuide) | $200–$900 |
| Labor, permits and job supplies (HomeGuide) | $1,800–$4,100 |
| Two-way (double) cleanout, installed (HomeGuide) | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Residential plumbing permit (HomeGuide) | $50–$300+ |
| Plumber hourly rate (HomeGuide) | $75–$150 |
What a cleanout is
A sewer cleanout is a capped access pipe on your main sewer line, usually just outside the house. It lets a plumber run a snake, jetter or camera into the line without pulling a toilet or going through the roof vent. A two-way cleanout, which HomeGuide calls the most popular choice, allows access both toward the house and toward the street.
Why it can pay for itself
Without a cleanout, every main-line clog means more labor to gain access, and some services can't reach the full line. With one, routine drain cleaning and camera inspections are faster. HomeGuide prices a sewer camera inspection at $125 to $500+.
Install it during other sewer work
Most of the cost is digging down to the line. If you are already excavating for a repair or sewer line replacement, adding a cleanout at the same time avoids paying for the excavation twice. HomeGuide lists sewer line repair at $50 to $250 per foot if the plumber finds damage while installing the cleanout.
Is your existing cleanout usable?
Many homes already have one hidden under landscaping or a buried cap. Look near the foundation on the side where the sewer exits. A cleanout that is buried, damaged or too small may still need replacement.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to install a sewer cleanout?
HomeGuide puts a typical sewer cleanout at $2,000 to $5,000 installed in 2026.
What is a two-way sewer cleanout?
A cleanout with access in both directions, toward the house and the street. HomeGuide lists it at $2,000 to $5,000 installed.
Do I need a permit for a sewer cleanout?
Usually. HomeGuide puts residential plumbing permits at $50 to $300+.
Why install a cleanout?
It gives easy access for snaking, jetting and camera inspections, which lowers the cost of future sewer service.
Related cost guides
- Sewer line replacement cost
- Drain cleaning cost
- Hydro-jetting and sewer camera cost
- Backflow preventer replacement cost
Sources
National figures from published 2026 cost guides, retrieved 10 Oct 2026. Local prices, especially in high-cost metros, can be higher. Always get written quotes.