What to expect on water line replacement day
Most residential replacements take about a day. Knowing the order of work makes it easier to plan around.
Published 2026-10-20
In short
Utilities are marked, water is shut off, the new line goes in by trench or bore, it is pressure-tested, and the yard is closed up.
The days before
- Public utilities are marked through Alabama 811. Private lines, like sprinkler pipe or wiring to a shed, are not, so point them out.
- Move cars out of the drive and keep pets inside.
- Fill a few jugs of water; service will be off for part of the day.
On the day
- Water off at the meter.
- Dig or bore. A trench across open lawn, or two small pits and a bore under drives and trees.
- New pipe laid or pulled from the meter to the house.
- Connections made at the meter and at the house shutoff.
- Pressure test before anything is buried.
- Backfill and restore the surface.
After the crew leaves
Run cold water at a few taps to flush air and sediment. Sputtering faucets settle down quickly. Expect the trench line to settle over a few weeks; topping it up with soil and seed is normal.
Common questions
Will I have water overnight?
Usually yes. Most replacements are connected and tested the same day.
Does someone need to be home?
Someone should be available to give access to the shutoff inside the house and answer questions.
Water coming up between the meter and the house?
Call to talk with an independent water line repair provider serving your part of Alabama. Ask about timing, then decide.