When purchasing a home, your realtor may recommend a sewer scope inspection. However, you might not have heard of it before. So, what is a sewer scope inspection? In short, it’s when a technician runs a camera through your sewer lines to check for damage and leaks.
While a sewer scope inspection does not have to occur during a real estate transaction, this is when it most commonly happens. Sewer scope inspections are generally not included in a typical home inspection and are an additional inspection a client should order.
Let’s explore sewer scope inspections and the process in more detail.
What Is the Sewer Scope Inspection & What Is the Process Like?
During a sewer scope inspection, a technician uses a specially designed camera on a long cable to view the inside of your drains.
Depending on the access available and the company, a technician might start on your roof and enter a vent stack on the opposite side where your sewer ends to access the sewer. This provides the inspector with the best chance to find damage since the sewer can be viewed from start to finish.
Some technicians or companies may only view the sewer from the cleanout to the street. The sewer cleanout is typically located just outside the home. While this provides a less comprehensive view of the drainage pipes, it can suffice to assess the general condition of the pipes.
In rare cases, a technician may remove a toilet to access the sewers, though this is uncommon.
The inspection generally takes about 30 minutes, and the entire process is typically recorded. Afterward, the technician can usually report the findings, but the client should wait for the final report with pictures and conclusive findings to decide on next steps.
How Much Does It Cost?
A sewer scope inspection can cost around $200 if performed alongside a home inspection, or over $400 if done independently.
Why You Need a Sewer Scope Inspection
There are several reasons a sewer scope inspection is important:
Health Risks
A sewer backup or leak can cause serious health issues due to bacteria, fungi, parasites, viruses, harmful gases, and mold. Health effects can occur if sewage backs up or leaks under your home.
Structural and Foundation Issues
Damaged sewer lines can lead to structural damage. For example, leaking sewers under a home can cause the foundation to shift. Settling drainage pipes may indicate home settling or shifting, which can compromise the foundation. Tree roots invading sewer lines can also impact the structure, so prompt action is necessary.
Signs You May Need a Sewer Scope
Homeowners should watch for the following indicators:
- Water Backups: May indicate sewer line damage, breakage, or clogs.
- Large Trees & Roots: Roots can grow around or into pipes, causing clogs, cracks, or leaks.
- Older Homes (Pre-1980): Older sewer lines are more likely to be degraded or damaged.
- Structural Movement: Shifting soil can damage or bend sewer pipes, leading to costly repairs.
- Lush Patches of Grass: Overly healthy-looking patches may indicate a sewer leak, as sewage acts as a powerful fertilizer.
- Rodents or Pests: Pests can live in sewer systems.
Sewer Scope Inspections When Buying a Home
It’s recommended to get a sewer scope inspection when purchasing a home, especially homes built before 1970. Older homes may have outdated drain lines, such as Orangeburg or cast iron, which are prone to root damage, rust, degradation, and backups.
Common issues in older homes include:
- Orangeburg drain lines
- Cast iron drains
- Roots growing into drainage pipes
- Damaged sewer drain pipes
Sewer Scope Inspection Results
After the inspection, the technician will check for:
- Clogs or blockages
- Cracks, damage, or imperfections
- Type of pipe material (clay, concrete, plastic, Orangeburg, cast iron, etc.)
- Roots growing into the line
- Separation or failure of the line
- Bellies (sags) in the drain
Any of these issues may require repair or replacement. Each case is unique, so always follow the inspector’s recommendations.
Is a Sewer Scope Inspection Worth It?
Yes. Sewer drain replacement costs range from $3,000 to $30,000, depending on location, size, and replacement type. For example, if drains under a home are in poor condition, flooring may need to be removed to access them.
Some modern technology allows plumbers to insert liners into old drains, but data on reliability is limited.
Even new construction homes can benefit from a sewer scope, as improperly installed or cracked drain lines are not uncommon.
Overall, the cost of a sewer scope inspection is far less than the potential cost of sewer line replacement.
Final Thoughts
HouseMaster Denver Central performs sewer scope inspections in the Denver Metro Area.
