a sewer line inspection (usually via a camera scope) is one of the most important but often overlooked parts of a thorough property inspection, especially for older homes or commercial buildings. Here's why it's worth it:
💩 Why Sewer Line Inspections Matter
1. Hidden, High-Stakes Problems
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Sewer lines are underground and invisible, but repairs can be extremely expensive — we're talking $3K to $15K+ for a full replacement.
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A quick inspection can reveal major issues before they become emergencies.
🕳️ What You Can Catch with a Sewer Camera
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Tree root intrusion — very common in older homes with clay or cast iron pipes.
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Cracks, collapses, or breaks in the line.
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Sagging or “bellied” sections where waste and water collect.
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Blockages from grease, wipes, or debris.
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Improper pipe slope or bad connections (often found in DIY or older work).
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Corrosion or deterioration (especially in cast iron or Orangeburg pipes).
🏠 When It's Especially Important
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Homes older than 30–40 years.
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If the property has large trees nearby.
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You're buying a home on a slab foundation (no access to plumbing from below).
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The building has had previous sewer backups or slow drains.
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Commercial buildings with high-volume restrooms or kitchens.
✅ Benefits of a Sewer Line Inspection
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Peace of mind for buyers and owners.
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Prevents surprise backups or emergencies.
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Supports better negotiation during real estate deals if problems are found.
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Helps with insurance claims or warranty work.
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Documents the current condition of the system for future reference.
🛠️ How It's Done
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A technician inserts a flexible, waterproof camera into the cleanout or drain.
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They navigate the entire line (usually to the city main), recording video and noting any issues.
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The process is non-invasive, fast, and can be done in under an hour.
👀 TL;DR:
Would you buy a house without checking the roof? The sewer line is kind of like the “roof” of your plumbing system — you don’t see it, but it protects you from a lot of nasty, expensive problems.