digging in backyard to repair a drain pipe

[homeownerman]

Howdy,

My problem is this: The drain that takes dirty washwater from the washing machine out to the sewer system is clogged. I rented a snake to clear it out, and it appears that there's dirt, mud, and tree/plant roots in the line about 3 feet beyond where the dirty water pipe leaves the basement of the house. I had a plumber snake it out as well, and he found the same root network. He felt it was a broken pipe that's just beyond the wall of the basement. So it's only accessible through digging in the backyard right behind the house.

I am thinking of digging myself to replace the cracked/broken section of the pipe. I am aware of the obvious dangers, like buried cables/pipes in that part of the yard, but I would like to know if this is something a do-it-yourselfer like me should attempt, or hire a pro. I have done big jobs on the house before (like replacing the roof), but on its face, this seems like a straightforward repair. But of course, those are famous last words, and that's why i'm asking on this forum. Thanks for any help you can provide.
:roll:

[Rich]

Excepting buried power lines I would consider that a pretty straightforward DIY project. One of the biggest problems you'll probably face is if you have cast iron piping. Cutting and patching cast iron is much more difficult than PVC.. but if you have PVC - no problems.