Sewer Scope Inspection

A sewer scope inspection is a specialized plumbing inspection that involves using a high-definition camera to inspect the condition of the sewer line that connects a home or building to the municipal sewer system or a private septic tank. This inspection is crucial because problems with the sewer line—such as blockages, cracks, or tree root intrusion—can lead to significant, often costly issues if not addressed early.

Sewer lines are typically buried underground and are often out of sight, making it difficult for homeowners or prospective buyers to detect problems. Since sewer line repairs or replacements can be expensive, a sewer scope inspection is a critical step when buying, selling, or maintaining a home.

• Home Buying: If you're purchasing an older home or one that has experienced plumbing issues, a sewer scope inspection can uncover hidden problems with the sewer line before you finalize the purchase. Homebuyers often request a sewer scope as part of a pre-purchase home inspection.
• Home Selling: Sellers can use a sewer scope inspection to identify issues before listing their property, which helps avoid surprises during negotiations or closing. Some sellers choose to make repairs beforehand to reduce the chances of the buyer requesting concessions or price reductions.
• Preventive Maintenance: Even if you're not moving or selling, periodic sewer scope inspections are useful for preventing major issues like backups or costly repairs. For example, tree root intrusion or pipe corrosion can take years to develop into visible problems, but an inspection can catch them early.
• When Experiencing Plumbing Problems: If you're noticing frequent clogs, slow drainage, foul odors, or sewage backups in your home, a sewer scope inspection can help identify the root cause of the problem and determine whether it’s related to your sewer line.

A sewer scope inspection is typically performed by a professional plumber who uses a flexible, waterproof camera attached to a long cable. This camera is inserted into the sewer line through an access point, usually a cleanout valve or the sewer line itself, to view the interior of the pipes. The camera transmits real-time video footage to a screen, allowing the technician to assess the condition of the pipes and look for any problems.

Here’s what the inspector typically checks during a sewer scope inspection:

1. Pipe Material:
   
   • Inspectors will identify the material of the sewer pipes, such as clay, cast iron, PVC, or ABS plastic. Some older materials (like cast iron or clay pipes) are more prone to damage, cracking, or root intrusion over time.

1. Tree Root Intrusion:
   
   • Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage. Roots seek out moisture and can invade sewer pipes, causing blockages or breaks. The camera can identify root growth inside the pipes, allowing the inspector to determine the severity of the intrusion and the required repairs.

1. Cracks or Collapsed Pipes:
   
   • Over time, pipes can crack or collapse due to natural wear, shifting ground, or external pressure. The camera allows the inspector to spot cracks, breaks, or collapsed sections of the sewer line that could result in leaks or blockages.

1. Corrosion and Build-Up:
   
   • Older pipes, especially those made of cast iron, can corrode, rust, or accumulate sludge and debris inside, which can reduce the pipe's diameter and cause frequent blockages or slow drainage. The camera will reveal any areas of corrosion or heavy build-up.

1. Blockages or Clogs:
   
   • Any blockages or clogs inside the sewer line, caused by grease, debris, or sediment, can cause sewage to back up into the home. A sewer scope can identify and pinpoint the location of the blockage, making it easier to plan the appropriate remediation.

1. Improper Pipe Slope:
   
   • Sewer lines need to be installed with a slight slope to allow waste and wastewater to flow easily toward the municipal system or septic tank. If the slope is too shallow or uneven, waste can collect in certain areas and cause clogs or backups. The inspector can assess the pipe's slope using the camera.

1. Separation or Offset Joints:
   
   • Pipes can shift or become misaligned over time, especially at the joints between sections. This misalignment is called an "offset" joint, which can allow water to pool, causing clogs or leaks. The sewer scope inspection will identify any such offsets.

1. Septic Tank or Sewer Connection:
   
   • If you have a septic system, the inspector will check the condition of the pipes leading to the septic tank and ensure that they are intact. If the property is connected to a municipal sewer system, the inspection will ensure there are no problems with the connection point.

During a sewer scope inspection, the technician will look for:

• Cracks or fractures in the pipe walls
• Corrosion or rust in metal pipes
• Tree root intrusion or root damage
• Blockages or build-up (e.g., grease, debris, or sediment)
• Collapsed pipes or signs of pipe sagging
• Improper pipe alignment or offsets in joints
• Pipes with an incorrect slope (too flat or too steep)
• Leaking joints or areas of seepage

After completing the inspection, the plumber or technician will provide a detailed report of the findings. This report typically includes:

• A video recording of the footage taken during the inspection, showing problem areas.
• Photographs of any damage, cracks, or issues found in the sewer line.
• Recommendations for repairs or replacement of damaged sections of the sewer line.
• An estimated cost for any necessary repairs or replacements.

In cases where major issues are found, you may need to consult with a plumber or contractor for further evaluation and to discuss potential solutions, such as trenchless sewer line repair or full replacement of the damaged line.

1. Tree Root Intrusion: One of the most frequent problems in older homes with large trees near the sewer line. Tree roots can invade the pipes, causing blockages and structural damage.
2. Cracked or Broken Pipes: Pipes can crack or break due to ground shifting, poor installation, or age, which can lead to leaks, blockages, and water damage.
3. Grease, Debris, or Sediment Build-Up: Grease or other substances that get washed down the drains can collect in the sewer line over time, causing slow drainage or clogs.
4. Corrosion: Older metal pipes (like cast iron) can rust and corrode over time, weakening the structure of the pipe and causing leaks or backups.
5. Collapsed Sewer Line: A completely collapsed pipe may need to be replaced. A collapsed line is often a result of shifting soil, excessive weight on the ground, or pipe degradation.
6. Misaligned Joints: Sometimes, the sections of the sewer pipe can shift or become misaligned, leading to blockages, leaks, or wastewater backup.

A sewer scope inspection is an essential step in identifying hidden problems in your home's sewer line. Whether you're buying a home, selling one, or maintaining an existing property, this inspection can help uncover costly or hazardous issues like tree root intrusion, pipe blockages, cracks, or corrosion that may otherwise go unnoticed. The cost of a sewer scope inspection is relatively affordable compared to the potential expenses of dealing with major sewer line problems down the road. By identifying and addressing issues early, you can avoid costly repairs, water damage, and sewage backups.