Sewer Pipe Scoping
When buying a preowned home, it is wise to have a sewer inspection completed at the same time as the home inspection. Homeowners own the length of drainpipe that extends from the house to the city main. The underground portion of the pipe is located below the soil or driveway - and the connection to the city sewer pipe is most commonly located below the street.
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Main sewer pipes at many older homes are made of clay or cast iron. Over time, joints can separate, cracks can form - and tree roots can find their way into the pipe – causing clogs or backups.
A sewer scope can verify that the pipe is in good condition, or if further action is needed.
This may include:
1) Pipe cleaning
2) Pipe repair
Repairs to pipes will vary and can include excavation of soil or pavement & replacement of portions of the pipe. Installing a sleeve inside the existing pipe is also an option in some cases.
Since sewer pipe repair/replacement can cost thousands of dollars, we highly suggest that you hire a specialist to evaluate the sewer pipe interior - as part of your home inspection contingency (particularly if your home was built before 1980).
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Remember, once you purchase the home, you are responsible for the condition of the sewer pipe.​​​​
What age homes should be scoped?
Problems are much more common in older drainpipes, but they can also occur in modern, PVC / plastic pipes. Unfortunately, this happens more commonly than most people think.
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During your inspection, we will run the water in the home for an extended period of time (generally over 1 hour). We fill and drain bathtubs and we operate washing machines. This puts a large volume of water through the main sewer pipe - and in some cases this will reveal evidence or symptoms of a problem with the main sewer pipe (i.e. water backing out of the floor drain). Unfortunately, if no backups occur, this does not guarantee that the pipe is not damaged.
Only a camera inspection can verify the actual condition of the pipe.
We can schedule this service for you
We will schedule this service for you through our preferred subcontractor.
You will receive a report with a link to the narrated video that allows you to view the entire pipe interior.
Just let us know that you want to add a sewer scope to your inspection. You can indicate this by using our order form, or simply text us to let us know.
The average fee for a camera inspection is $195.00.
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