Buying a home is exciting, but it’s also a complex process full of details to manage. While most buyers schedule a general home inspection, many overlook a sewer inspection when buying a house. This can be a costly mistake.
Hidden plumbing problems, particularly in a home’s sewer line, can lead to expensive repairs and unexpected stress. A sewer inspection, also called a sewer scope, can help you catch these issues before they become a nightmare. When done properly and with the right tools, a sewer scope inspection can protect homebuyers from unexpected, costly damage and give them peace of mind during their home purchase. Here’s what you should know before purchasing a home.
What Is a Sewer Inspection?
A sewer inspection involves using a borescope to check the condition of a home’s sewer line. Borescopes are small, flexible cameras that can be inserted into the main sewer line and record video footage as it travels through the pipe.
Through a sewer scope inspection, you can identify potential real estate plumbing issues — such as damage, blockages, or tree root intrusion — impacting the property’s value. Sewer camera inspections are noninvasive, so you don’t need to tear up floors or yards to thoroughly examine the pipes.
The Importance of Sewer Inspections for Homebuyers
A home’s sewer system is crucial to the property’s functionality. Unfortunately, signs of sewer line damage are often hidden and can become costly surprises if left unchecked. Because they aren’t typically part of a standard home inspection checklist, many buyers are surprised at the drainage issues that pop up after purchasing a home.
Here’s why a sewer inspection is a must for anyone purchasing a home:
Hidden Plumbing Issues
Sewer lines are located underground, making them difficult to inspect without specialized tools like a borescope to conduct a sewer camera inspection. During a typical home inspection, the plumbing inside the house may be checked, but the condition of the underground sewer line is not visible. This leaves homebuyers vulnerable to issues that might not be immediately obvious but can lead to significant damage over time.
Potential Repair Costs
Sewer line problems can get expensive. Depending on the extent of the damage, repairs can range from a few thousand dollars to $25,000 or more, especially if the sewer line needs to be replaced.
This can be a significant financial burden on unsuspecting buyers, especially if they’ve just spent their savings on a down payment and closing costs. In comparison, the cost of sewer inspections are less expensive and can help avoid these costly surprises.
Spot Common Sewer Line Issues
Conducting a sewer lateral inspection when buying a house can help you spot these common issues, allowing you to make better decisions or negotiate the value of a property:
- Tree Root Intrusions: Roots from nearby trees can invade and clog sewer lines.
- Pipe Corrosion or Collapse: Older clay or cast iron pipes often deteriorate over time.
- Clogs and Blockages: Grease, debris, and foreign objects can create serious backups.
- Old or Deteriorated Pipes: This can require a sewer pipe replacement, which can be very costly.
When Should You Get a Sewer Inspection?
Those in the market for a new home or real estate agents who want to thoroughly inspect the quality of a property will require a sewer inspection when buying or selling a house. Some signs you should conduct a home inspection on the sewer line include:
- The home is over 20 to 30 years old.
- There are large trees near the sewer line, as their roots can cause damage.
- You notice slow drains, sewage backups, or bad odors.
- The home has a history of plumbing problems.
- You want to conduct preventative maintenance for homebuyers.
How a Sewer Scope Inspection Works
Sewer inspections use specialized equipment, primarily a borescope, as a sewer scope for homebuyers. The process ensures homebuyers can assess the line’s condition and helps identify potential problems. Here’s The process includes these key steps:
- Inserting the Camera: A technician inserts the camera through an access point, like a cleanout or drain. The cable is pushed inward and can easily pass through bends and turns.
- Recording Video Footage: The camera travels through the pipe, recording and transmitting live footage. From there, it’s possible to see signs of sewer line damage, such as cracks, blockages, tree roots, or collapsed sections of the pipe.
- Documenting Findings: The technician reports any issues found and repair recommendations. Depending on the findings, you can decide how to proceed.
In some cases, no further action is needed, and the inspection simply provides peace of mind. In other cases, the inspection may reveal serious problems that require immediate attention. Homebuyers can use the report to negotiate repairs or request a price reduction from the seller.
How Much Does a Sewer Inspection Cost?
The cost of a sewer inspection typically ranges from $250 to $500, depending on the home’s location and accessibility of the sewer line. This is a small price to pay compared to the potential cost of sewer repairs, which can easily reach the thousands.
For example, repairing a collapsed line could cost $3,000 to $25,000 and up. A sewer inspection is a smart investment that protects your budget and prevents unpleasant surprises.
Benefits of Sewer Inspections for Homebuyers
A sewer inspection is one of the smartest decisions a buyer can make. Some of the biggest benefits include:
- Avoid Unexpected Repair Bills: Detecting issues early helps avoid costly repairs after purchasing a home.
- Negotiation Power: If the inspection uncovers problems, you can ask the seller to cover repairs or reduce the sale price.
- Prevents Future Disasters: A thorough inspection ensures the sewer system is functioning well, preventing sewage backups and other emergencies.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing the condition of your sewer line allows you to close on your new home with confidence.
DIY vs. Professional Sewer Inspections
While some homeowners may consider a DIY sewer inspection, it’s generally best to leave this job to the pros. Contacting a professional plumber to conduct a home inspection on the sewer line prevents damage and ensures a thorough assessment with:
- Accuracy and Quality: Professional sewer cameras offer clearer, higher-resolution images, making it easier to spot small cracks or corrosion.
- Experience Matters: Plumbers and home inspectors know what to look for and can provide detailed reports.
- DIY Limitations: Consumer-grade borescopes often have shorter cables and lower image quality, limiting what you can inspect to detect. Professional-grade borescopes provide clearer, more reliable visuals.
Choosing the Right Sewer Inspection Equipment
If you decide to do a DIY sewer inspection, you’ll need the right equipment. USA Borescopes offers high-quality sewer inspection cameras designed for home use. When choosing a camera, look for these features:
- High-Resolution Camera: A clear picture is essential for spotting issues.
- Sufficient Cable Length: Ensure the cable is long enough to inspect the entire sewer line.
- Waterproofing: Sewer lines are full of moisture, so your camera must be waterproof.
- Portability: Lightweight and portable models are easier to use and store.
Get Professional-Grade Equipment at USA Borescopes
A sewer inspection might not be at the top of your home-buying checklist, but it should be. This essential step can prevent costly surprises and help you make an informed decision about your purchase. Visit USA Borescopes for professional-grade tools that ensure a thorough property inspection.