The Hidden Hero Below: Why a Sewer Scope Inspection is Essential

The image above was provided by InterNACHI. I am an InterNACHI member and have permission to use this image.

Every homeowner dreams of a safe, comfortable, and worry-free living space. Yet beneath the surface—literally—lurks a system that’s often overlooked until disaster strikes: the sewer line.

This hidden pipe can turn into a headache. A sewer scope is a smart and simple way to protect your home, your health, and your wallet from this hidden catastrophe. Let’s explore why this non-invasive service deserves a permanent spot on your home maintenance checklist.

🔍 What a Sewer Scope Does (and Why We Can’t See It)

A standard home inspection involves testing the plumbing inside the house—flushing toilets, running faucets. But that only tells half the story. The building sewer lateral (the main pipe connecting your home to the municipal system) runs underground and is not visible without a scope.

A sewer scope inspection involves feeding a camera directly into the main line. This process allows us to inspect the pipe’s internal condition from end to end, revealing any issues that could be lying dormant.

When to Scope?

It is always a good idea to have a sewer scope, but it is especially important if your home falls into any of these categories:

• Age Matters: Older homes may have pipes that are past their expected lifespan.

• Tree Density: Large, mature trees (oaks, maples, poplars) are located in the front yard or near the curb. Their roots are pipe-seeking missiles.

• Red Flags: The seller mentions any history of slow drains, backups, or recent drain cleaning.

The image above was provided by InterNACHI. I am an InterNACHI member and have permission to use this image.

🚨 6 Costly Problems Hiding Underground

Ignoring your sewer system can quickly lead to raw sewage backups, foul odors, and expensive excavation work. These are common (and costly) problems:

Problem Type	Description
Tree Root Intrusions	Roots can penetrate pipe joints, causing blockages and structural damage.
Excessive Rust/Scaling	Corrosion and mineral buildup can narrow the pipe diameter and weaken the structure.
Debris Blockage	Foreign objects or sediment can obstruct flow and trigger backups.
Cracked or Broken Pipes	Age, shifting soil, or poor installation can lead to leaks and collapse.
Sagging Pipes	Known as “bellies,” these dips can trap waste and increase the risk of blockage.
Grease Buildup	Accumulated grease restricts flow and can solidify into stubborn blockages.

🛡️ Sewer Intelligence = Peace of Mind

The cost of a sewer scope is minimal, especially when compared to the potential cleanup costs for a backup.

For Home Buyers: Confidence in Your Investment

A clear scope report gives you immediate leverage in a real estate negotiation:

• Avoid Surprises: You prevent closing on a home that has an imminent, massive plumbing failure.

• Negotiation Power: If issues are found, you can negotiate the sales price or require the seller to make repairs before closing.

  
  

For Current Owners: Proactive Protection

Protect your largest asset by planning ahead:

• Detect Early: Catch minor issues like small root intrusions or light scaling before they become full blockages.

• Extend Life: Proactive maintenance and cleanings can extend the life of your existing system.

  
  

📅 How Often Should You Inspect?

This is a maintenance item, not a one-time check. Here’s my recommendation:

• Homes over 30 years old or near mature trees: Every 2–3 years.

• Newer Construction: Every 5 years to catch potential installation defects early.

A professional inspector will provide a detailed video, a clear explanation of any findings, and actionable recommendations. Whether the solution is trenchless repair (minimal digging) or a full replacement, having the knowledge first empowers you to choose the right, cost-effective solution.

Don’t overlook what lies beneath your property. Investing in a quick sewer inspection today protects your home’s value, your family’s health, and your future. Ask your home inspector to coordinate a sewer scope with a plumbing technician as part of your inspection process.