See What's Happening in Your Sewer Line
A home can look perfect above ground and still conceal a costly surprise in the sewer line. Pipes age, shift, and clog without warning. Repairs often run into thousands, and insurance rarely covers them. A sewer scope inspection gives you proof of what's going on before you buy.
Note: If your property has a septic system, check out our Septic System Inspections for visual, load testing, and full functional testing options.
What's Included in the Inspection
A small waterproof camera travels through the main sewer line from your home to the street connection, providing a view of the pipe's interior, enabling the detection of potential problems early.
Pipe Condition
Detection of cracked, broken, or corroded pipes that can lead to leaks, backups, or complete failure.
Tree Root Intrusion
Identification of roots invading the line through cracks or joints, which can cause blockages and damage.
Blockages & Buildup
Detection of blockages from grease, debris, or waste buildup that can cause slow drains or backups.
Pipe Alignment
Identification of low spots, sags, or misaligned sections where waste can collect and cause problems.
Pipe Material & Age
Assessment of pipe material, type, and estimated age to understand durability and potential issues.
Joints & Connections
Evaluation of faulty joints, damaged connections, or improper installations that can cause leaks.
The process typically takes about an hour, and you'll receive video footage and a report with any issues.
What It Reveals
During one inspection, a root had grown through the main line, something the sellers didn't know about. Fixing it would have cost over $10,000 if it hadn't been found, but catching it early gave everyone time to sort it out before closing.
In most all cases, you receive the report the same day. The inspection includes video footage of the sewer line that you can review, along with a written report detailing any issues found.
If issues are detected, I'll explain what they mean and their potential impact. Many problems can be addressed with cleaning or minor repairs, while others may require more extensive work. The report will help you negotiate repairs or credits with the seller before closing. Every situation is different and it is up to you and your real estate agent to decide how to proceed after the inspection.
Even newer homes can have sewer line issues. Problems can arise from improper installation, ground settling, or tree roots that find their way into the line. While older homes (pre-1980) are at higher risk, a sewer scope is valuable for any property connected to municipal sewer to ensure you're not inheriting costly problems.
If you have questions after receiving your sewer scope report, contact us! We are happy to answer any questions you have, even after you have moved in - we are here for you!
When to Schedule a Sewer Scope
A sewer scope is recommended for:
- Homes built before 1980 (older clay or cast iron pipes)
- Properties with large trees near the sewer line
- Houses with a history of slow drains or backups
- Any property connected to municipal sewer (not septic)
- When you want peace of mind before closing
Scheduling early in the buying process gives you time to negotiate repairs or credits if issues are found. Most inspections take about an hour and can be coordinated with your home inspection.
Inspection Package & Pricing
Professional sewer line camera inspection with video documentation
Sewer Scope Inspection
Camera inspection of main sewer line from home to street
- Full camera inspection of main sewer line
- Video footage of pipe interior
- Detection of cracks, roots, blockages, and damage
- Pipe material and condition assessment
- Detailed written report with findings
- Same-day report delivery
Add-On Price: +$250 when added to a base inspection
Total with Base: $775
Inspection typically takes about one hour. Video footage and report delivered the same day.