When it comes to sewer replacement in NYC, property owners have two main options: traditional open-cut excavation and trenchless methods. Traditional replacement involves digging a trench along the entire length of the sewer line, removing the old pipe, and installing a new one. This method is reliable but disruptive. Trenchless methods, including pipe lining (CIPP) and pipe bursting, require only small access points and can often be completed in a single day. Trenchless methods typically cost 20-40% less than traditional methods and cause minimal surface disruption. However, trenchless is not suitable for all situations — severely collapsed pipes, significant changes in pipe direction, or major diameter changes may require traditional excavation.