“Do we need to leave the house?” It’s one of the first questions homeowners ask when a plumbing repair involves digging - and for good reason. Noise, dust, odours, and the fear of losing access to bathrooms or kitchens can make the situation feel overwhelming.
For many Ottawa homeowners, the word digging immediately sounds extreme - bringing worst-case scenarios to mind before anyone explains what the repair actually involves.
But, before you jump to conclusions, there are a few things you should know.
What Happens During Plumbing Digging Repairs
Plumbing repairs that require digging typically involve accessing pipes buried beneath concrete floors, foundation walls, or underground outside the home. In Ottawa, this most often applies to sewer line repairs, collapsed drains, or major pipe replacements.
The process usually begins with preparation: protecting surrounding areas, marking access points, and clearly outlining which plumbing fixtures may be temporarily unavailable. Plumbers then break through concrete, excavate soil, remove damaged piping, and install new sections before restoring the area.
Curtis McGrath, one of our seasoned plumbers, explains, “People are usually surprised by how quickly the landscape of their basement changes once we get started.” That shift happens because digging work requires far more than a small access point. Concrete must be safely broken and removed, soil must be dug out and stored, and plumbers need clear pathways to move equipment in and out efficiently.
Can You Really Stay Home During Plumbing Repairs?
For the majority of digging-related plumbing repairs, homeowners do not need to leave their house. In fact, professional plumbers plan jobs with occupancy in mind. As Jeremy La Salle, one of our experienced plumbers, notes, “We always try to make sure that homeowners have at least one bathroom either permanently hooked up or temporarily connected before we leave.” This type of planning allows families to maintain basic routines, even while major work is underway.
However, there is one important exception to this rule. In cases where a drain line has completely collapsed, plumbing may be unusable until the repair is finished. When water and waste cannot safely flow through the system at all, temporarily leaving the home may be necessary until service is fully restored.
When Staying Home Isn’t the Best Choice
While most homeowners can remain in their homes during digging-related plumbing repairs, every household is different. In certain situations, temporarily leaving the house may be a more comfortable or practical choice.
- Health-related concerns: Homeowners with respiratory conditions or medical needs that require quick bathroom access may find it difficult to stay during certain stages of the repair. In these cases, leaving temporarily can avoid health risks.
- Severe odours or contamination: Exposing long-term sewage leaks can sometimes cause strong and lingering odours inside the home. Some families may prefer to step away until the affected area is fully repaired and cleaned.
- Noise and vibration sensitivity: Concrete cutting and digging can be loud and disruptive. Homeowners who are sensitive to noise may find it more comfortable to leave during the most active phases.
- Work-from-home or caregiving needs: Digging repairs can interrupt meetings, routines, or caregiving schedules. Temporarily leaving the home may make it easier to maintain daily responsibilities.
Why Communication Matters During Plumbing Repairs
Clear communication plays a major role in whether homeowners feel comfortable staying in their home during digging-related plumbing repairs. When expectations are set upfront, uncertainty is reduced, and the entire process feels more manageable.
Experienced plumbers take time to explain:
- Which areas of the home will be affected
- How long each phase is expected to last
- When plumbing access may be temporarily limited
- What unexpected issues could arise underground
As Jeremy La Salle, a licensed plumber, emphasizes, “painting a clear picture before work begins helps homeowners feel less anxious because they already know what to expect.”
Know the Process, Avoid Stress
Digging-related plumbing repairs don’t automatically mean chaos, displacement, or days spent away from home. With experienced professionals, clear communication, and proper planning, most Ottawa homeowners can remain in their homes safely and comfortably throughout the process.
At Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Ottawa, our team combines hands-on expertise with clear explanations, modern diagnostic tools, and homeowner-first planning. From minimizing downtime to ensuring access to essential fixtures, every step is designed to reduce disruption while delivering long-term solutions.
Get Your Estimate and Protect Your Plumbing Today
Curious about what your plumbing repair or installation might cost? Try our free online pricing estimator today - it gives you a ballpark quote in just seconds.
And if you’re ready to book your service, call (613) 746-0000. We’re ready to handle everything from emergency leak repairs to routine maintenance.
