What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection uses a specialized waterproof camera fed through your home's sewer lateral line — the pipe running from the home to the municipal sewer or septic system. This camera inspection reveals the condition of the pipe and identifies problems that are completely invisible during a standard home inspection.
Sewer line repairs and replacements are among the most expensive home repairs, often costing between $5,000 and $25,000 or more. Knowing the condition of the sewer line before purchasing a home can save you from inheriting a serious problem.
What We Inspect & Detect
- Root intrusion from trees & shrubs
- Pipe corrosion & deterioration
- Cracks, fractures & collapses
- Bellying (sagging sections)
- Grease & debris buildup
- Offset or misaligned joints
- Foreign object blockages
- Pipe material identification
Who Should Get a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope is especially recommended for homes with mature trees near the sewer line, older homes with clay or cast iron pipes, homes that have had recurring drain issues, or any property where the sewer line condition is unknown. It's also wise for any home purchase where the sewer line history is undocumented.
The inspection is non-invasive and takes less than an hour, but it provides critical information that can be used to negotiate repairs with the seller or make an informed decision about the purchase.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
No. The camera is inserted through a clean-out access point and is flexible enough to navigate through the pipe without causing any damage. The process is completely non-invasive.
A sewer scope inspects the sewer lateral line from the home. For full septic system evaluation, a dedicated septic inspection is recommended. Ask Adrian about combined service options.
The camera typically travels the full length of the sewer lateral from the home to the municipal connection or septic tank — usually 50 to 150 feet depending on the property.