Buying a home is one of the largest and most exciting financial investments you will ever make, and having a sewer camera inspection done should be your first move. During the due diligence period, you hire a general home inspector to carefully examine the property’s roof, foundation, electrical, and plumbing systems. While a good home inspector will check the visible plumbing fixtures, they do not have the ability to inspect the one part of the plumbing system that can cause the most catastrophic and expensive problems: the main sewer line. A sewer camera inspection, also known as a sewer scope, is a specialized inspection that can uncover hidden, pre-existing problems in the sewer line that could save you from tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs after you close on the house.
The Hidden Dangers of an Old Sewer Line
The main sewer line is the pipe that carries all the wastewater from your home out to the city’s main sewer. In older homes, these pipes are often made of clay or cast iron, which are highly susceptible to failure over time. Common problems include:
- Tree Root Intrusion: This is the most common problem. Tiny roots can invade the pipe through the joints, creating a dense root ball that causes constant backups.
- Cracked or Broken Pipes: The old pipes can become brittle and can crack or collapse due to shifting soil or root damage.
- Pipe “Bellies”: Sections of the pipe can sink into the soil, creating a low spot or “belly” that collects solid waste and leads to recurring clogs.
A standard home inspection cannot detect any of these issues. You will only discover the problem after you’ve moved in and start experiencing slow drains or, worse, a major sewage backup. At that point, the expensive repair is entirely your responsibility.
The Power of a Pre-Purchase Camera Inspection
A sewer camera inspection is a simple, non-invasive procedure that provides a definitive look at the condition of the sewer line. A technician will run a high-resolution camera through the entire length of the pipe, from the house to the street. You can see the live video feed for yourself. This inspection will tell you:
- The material of the sewer pipe.
- The overall condition of the pipe.
- If there are any existing cracks, breaks, bellies, or tree root intrusions.
The Financial Protection It Provides
The information from a sewer scope is a powerful negotiation tool.
- Informed Decision-Making: It gives you a complete picture of the property’s condition, allowing you to make a fully informed purchasing decision.
- Negotiating Power: If the inspection reveals a significant problem, you can use the detailed report and the video evidence to negotiate with the seller. You can ask them to perform the necessary repairs before closing, or you can negotiate a reduction in the sales price to cover the cost of the future repair.
- Avoiding a Financial Disaster: A full sewer line replacement can be one of the most expensive repairs a homeowner can face. The small cost of a sewer camera inspection is a tiny price to pay for the potential to avoid a five-figure repair bill right after you’ve bought your new home.
As many real estate and home inspection resources, including the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI), often recommend, a sewer scope is a wise and crucial part of the home buying process, especially for older properties.
Your Los Angeles & Orange County Experts for Camera Inspections
Don’t let a hidden sewer problem turn your new dream home into a financial nightmare. For home buyers in Los Angeles and Orange County, the experienced team at Neighborhood Plumbing offers state-of-the-art camera inspections. Contact us today to schedule this critical inspection before you close.
