When it comes to homeownership, plumbing issues are among the most disruptive—and expensive—problems you can encounter. Yet, one of the most overlooked components of a residential or commercial property is also one of the most important: the main sewer line. For homeowners in Georgia, especially in growing areas like Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens, a professional sewer scope inspection is an essential step in identifying hidden damage before it becomes a full-blown plumbing emergency.
At LunsPro Inspection Group, we've seen firsthand how an undetected sewer issue can lead to foundation problems, property damage, and costly repairs. That's why we recommend sewer scope inspections as a vital part of comprehensive Georgia home inspections—especially in older homes and those with mature trees, shifting soil, or previous plumbing repairs. Whether you're a first-time buyer or a longtime property owner, this service could save you thousands of dollars and untold headaches.
What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection involves sending a high-resolution, waterproof camera into a property's main sewer line to visually assess its condition. This non-invasive process allows inspectors to identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, pipe sagging (also called bellies), corrosion, and other potential failures that could lead to costly backups or structural damage.
During Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Residential and Commercial Inspections, LunsPro inspectors use specialized equipment to record footage from the home to the city connection or septic tank. This video is then reviewed to determine if the sewer line is in good working order—or if repairs or replacements are needed.
Because the main sewer line is located underground and inaccessible to the naked eye, problems can go unnoticed for years—until a backup floods the home or damages the foundation. A sewer scope inspection gives property owners peace of mind and the opportunity to address problems proactively.
Why Sewer Issues Are So Dangerous
The main sewer line is responsible for carrying wastewater away from your home. If it fails, sewage can back up into toilets, tubs, sinks, and drains—posing serious health risks and requiring expensive emergency cleanup. Worse yet, prolonged leaks or breaks underground can saturate the soil around your foundation, leading to erosion, shifting, and even cracks in the structure itself.
In the Metro Areas of North Georgia, soil composition and moisture fluctuations can already place stress on foundations. When a damaged sewer line goes unnoticed, it introduces even more water into the equation, increasing the risk of settlement and structural instability. For this reason, sewer scope inspections are particularly important for Georgia homeowners who are already concerned about foundation issues.
Additionally, older neighborhoods in cities like Atlanta and Athens often have original sewer lines made of clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg (a compressed tar paper material). These outdated materials are prone to deterioration and root intrusion, especially when surrounded by mature landscaping. Without a sewer scope inspection, homeowners may be unaware of an impending failure until it's too late.
Common Sewer Line Problems Found During Inspections
At LunsPro Inspection Group, our inspectors routinely uncover the following issues during sewer scope inspections:
Tree Root Intrusion: Roots can enter through tiny cracks in pipes and expand, causing blockages and ruptures.
Pipe Sagging or Bellies: Sections of the pipe may dip due to shifting soil, leading to standing water and frequent clogs.
Cracks or Fractures: Structural breaks allow soil and debris to infiltrate the pipe or cause leaking into the yard.
Collapsed or Broken Pipes: Especially common in older lines made of clay or Orangeburg.
Grease, sludge, or foreign object buildup: Can result in slow drainage and eventual backups.
Improper connections or amateur repairs: DIY fixes or substandard installations may not meet plumbing codes.
Each of these issues can result in significant costs if left unaddressed. By identifying them early, Georgia homeowners can make informed decisions—whether that means maintenance, repair, or full replacement.
When Should You Get a Sewer Scope Inspection?
While every property can benefit from a sewer scope inspection, certain scenarios in Georgia make this service particularly advisable:
You're buying an older home (especially pre-1980s) in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens.
The property has mature trees near the sewer line.
You've experienced frequent clogs, slow drainage, or gurgling sounds from plumbing fixtures.
The home sits on expansive clay soil, which is common in the Metro Areas and prone to causing ground movement.
There's a history of foundation problems, which can indicate shifting that may affect underground piping.
You're purchasing a flipped or recently renovated home, where plumbing work may have been rushed or improperly completed.
First-time buyers should consider sewer scope inspections a non-negotiable part of their due diligence—particularly in older neighborhoods where sewer lines have reached or exceeded their life expectancy.
Sewer Line Issues and Foundation Damage
As noted earlier, one of the most dangerous consequences of a damaged sewer line is the impact it can have on your home's foundation. In areas like Alpharetta and Athens, foundation issues are already common due to variable soil and high moisture levels. A leaking or broken sewer pipe beneath or near the foundation accelerates the risk by introducing a constant stream of moisture to the soil.
This can lead to:
Soil erosion under footings
Foundation settlement or heaving
Cracks in slabs, walls, and floors
Moisture intrusion into crawl spaces or basements
For Georgia homeowners already monitoring their foundations, a sewer scope inspection offers additional protection and insight into underground issues that may be contributing to structural instability.
The Cost vs. Savings of a Sewer Scope
A typical sewer scope inspection is relatively inexpensive—often a few hundred dollars—but the potential savings are significant. Replacing a damaged main sewer line can range from $4,000 to over $15,000 depending on depth, length, and location. If that damage leads to interior flooding or foundation issues, the repair costs and health risks multiply quickly.
At LunsPro Inspection Group, our inspectors provide clear video footage, expert analysis, and repair recommendations if necessary. This proactive approach gives homeowners a chance to make repairs before small issues escalate into major emergencies.
For homebuyers, a sewer scope inspection can also be a negotiation tool. If damage is found, you may be able to request repairs from the seller or adjust your offer to reflect the repair cost.
Integrating Sewer Scope into Your Full Home Inspection
At LunsPro Inspection Group, we make it easy to add sewer scope inspections to your full residential or commercial inspection package. Our inspectors are trained to handle both services efficiently, allowing for a smoother process and faster results.
When bundled with one of our Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Residential and Commercial Inspections, sewer scopes offer unmatched value. In one comprehensive visit, buyers and property owners receive insight into:
Above-ground systems (roof, HVAC, electrical, plumbing)
Below-ground infrastructure (sewer line, drainage, moisture intrusion)
Structural integrity (foundation, framing, crawl space)
This full-picture approach is what sets LunsPro apart and why so many homeowners in the Metro Areas trust us for their Georgia home inspections.
Final Thoughts: Protect What's Below the Surface
When it comes to protecting your property, it's not just what you see that matters—it's what's happening below the surface. A sewer line failure is one of the most disruptive problems a homeowner can face, and by the time symptoms appear, damage may already be extensive.
Fortunately, with a sewer scope inspection from LunsPro Inspection Group, Georgia homeowners can stay one step ahead. This simple, affordable service provides powerful insight into your property's plumbing health and helps prevent emergencies that could cost thousands to fix.
If you're buying a home, planning renovations, or concerned about foundation moisture, don't leave your sewer line unchecked. Schedule a sewer scope inspection today as part of your Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Athens Residential and Commercial Inspection—and get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is protected, inside and out.