Call Brian for your sewer scope inspection
Common problems found in a sewer scope inspection?
Here are the most frequent issues found in a sewer scope:
- Tree Root Intrusion: Roots seek moisture and grow into small cracks, causing blockages and structural damage.
- Cracks, Breaks, & Collapses: Caused by age, soil movement, or pressure, leading to leaks and backups.
- Grease & Debris Buildup: Fats, oils, and grease (FOG), as well as non-flushable items, stick to pipe walls, creating sludge and obstructions.
- Corrosion & Deterioration: Especially in older cast iron or clay pipes, leading to flaking, scaling, and weakened walls.
- Pipe Offsets: Pipe joints separate or misalign due to soil settling, disrupting flow.
- Sewer Belly (Pipe Sag): A low spot in the pipe where water and waste collect, causing intermittent backups.
- Improper Installation/Slope: Incorrect pitch or poor construction can lead to drainage issues.
- Foreign Objects: Construction debris or flushed items can cause blockages.
What is a Sewer Scope Line Inspection?
A sewer scope plumbing inspection (also known as a sewer line inspection) uses a flexible cable with a waterproof camera to visually examine your home's main sewer line for hidden problems like cracks, blockages, root intrusion, and deterioration. We'll send you a private video recording that will diagnose issues before they become costly repairs. We'll insert the camera through an access point (such as a cleanout) to see inside the pipe, providing a non-invasive way to assess the line's condition. A sewer line inspection is especially important for older homes, brand new construction, or properties with mature trees.
Does my home need a sewer scope inspection?
You likely need a sewer scope inspection if your home is older (20+ years), has mature trees nearby, or shows signs of slow drains or backups. If you're buying a house, a sewer scope reveals hidden blockages or damage, such as tree root intrusion, pipe cracks, and offset joints, which can cost thousands to repair. It provides peace of mind and helps with negotiations before purchase, especially for older clay or cast-iron pipes prone to issues.
A sewer scope inspection with us costs between $200 and $300 and scopes the entire main sewer line. A major underground plumbing repair could cost around $200 per foot, and additional costs for complex situations.
Why choose a home inspector instead of a plumber for a sewer scope inspection?
A certified home inspector brings a broader, more objective perspective to a sewer scope inspection than a plumber whose work is often focused on repairs. Home inspectors are trained to evaluate the condition of the entire property and document findings clearly, with the goal of helping buyers or homeowners understand risk, not sell a fix.
During a sewer scope, an inspector assesses the line’s material, slope, root intrusion, cracks, offsets, and signs of failure, then explains what those findings mean in plain terms. Because inspectors are not the ones doing the repair work, their report is neutral and focused on informed decision-making, which is especially important during a real estate transaction where clarity and documentation matter.