Sewer Line Inspection
A video camera inspection of the underground sewer lateral, catching problems long before they surface as an expensive repair.
What the Camera Scope Reveals
- ✓Root intrusion — tree and shrub roots that have entered the line through joints or cracks.
- ✓Cracks & breaks — structural damage that can lead to leaks or full pipe collapse over time.
- ✓Bellies & sags — low spots in the line where waste can pool and cause recurring backups.
- ✓Offset or separated joints — sections of pipe that have shifted out of alignment.
- ✓Pipe material & condition — noting cast iron corrosion, clay pipe deterioration, or other material-specific issues.
- ✓Blockages — grease, debris, or scale buildup restricting flow through the line.
Why It Matters
The sewer lateral — the pipe connecting a home to the municipal sewer main — is buried and completely out of sight, which means problems can develop for years before anyone notices a slow drain or backup. This is especially true for older homes in established neighborhoods, where mature tree roots and aging pipe materials are common. A camera scope is the only reliable way to see the actual condition of the line rather than guessing from symptoms at the fixtures.
For buyers, a sewer line inspection can uncover a repair that's easy to miss during a general home inspection but expensive to fix after closing — replacing or relining a damaged lateral is a significant undertaking. For current owners, catching root intrusion or a developing crack early often means a smaller, more manageable repair instead of an emergency excavation.
You May Also Need
Full Home Inspection
A complete evaluation of the property's above-ground systems and structure.
Learn More →Mold Testing
Worth considering if a sewer or plumbing issue has led to moisture intrusion.
Learn More →