When an old underground pipe system (most commonly water, sanitary, and storm) is replaced or no longer needed due to an upgrade, the project engineer may wish for the existing pipe to be removed or abandoned.

Because leaving old pipe in the ground causes confusion and delay for future excavating construction work in the same area, the practice of abandoning pipe is avoided if the budget allows.

Safely filling an abandoned pipeline requires an experienced analysis of various factors. The fill material must be able to withstand the external pressure from soil compression and surface load surcharge.