PLUMBING
How to Estimate Hydro Jetting
Contractor method for estimating hydro jetting by drain type and severity.
Hydro jetting bids fail on the drain type and the severity. The base rate is easy math; kitchen, bathroom and sewer are different rates, and the severity multiplies the quote.
THE SHORT ANSWER
How do you estimate hydro jetting?
Identify the drain, set the base rate (kitchen $425, bathroom $375, sewer $900), then apply severity and add camera. A moderate kitchen job with camera runs about $606.
Identify the drain
Kitchen, bathroom and sewer lines are very different jobs. Kitchen drains often have heavy grease; sewer lines can be severe and deep.
- Confirm the drain type
- Assess the severity
- Check the cleanout access
- Note if a camera is needed
Set the base rate
Kitchen jetting runs ~$425, bathroom ~$375 and sewer ~$900. The rate reflects the difficulty and equipment.
Apply the severity
Severity multiplies the base rate — mild ×1, moderate ×1.25, severe ×1.5. Poor access and camera inspection add on. Use the Hydro Jetting Cost Calculator.
Check the total
Your total should land within 10% of the calculator output before markup. Confirm whether the pipe needs repair after cleaning.