Sewer Scope Inspections

A sewer scope is a video/photo inspection of the lateral sewer line from the house at or near the foundation to the city, HOA tap, or the septic tank. The purpose of a sewer scope is to discover and report defects that are visible in the lateral sewer line. These include but aren't limited to root intrusion, grease build up, rodents, blockages (including construction debris), sagging pipes, and much more!

Absolutely. The sewer line is often one of the most costly things to repair in a home. Getting a sewer scope inspection can help you avoid investing in a home that has serious issues with the sewer/septic system. There are many things that can cause issues with your sewer line, especially in older homes, new construction, or homes with trees.

We have seen dozens of cases where construction debris has gotten into the sewer/septic lines. These blockages are so bad because of the size and amount that has been put in there during the construction process. So it is very important with new construction to have a sewer scope inspection.

The most common tool professionals use for root removal is a mechanical auger or rooter. They'll feed the auger into the pipe all the way down to the obstruction, where it can chop up the roots like a saw. After the roots have been thoroughly chopped, the pipe can be flushed out. For more extensive damage, the piping needs to be dug up and replaced.

One thing that sometimes creates a problem with sewer lines is when they become "offset". An offset sewer line mean that the joints no longer connect properly, to the point where the two sections of pipe no longer align. This can be a costly repair.

We perform our inspections through the main cleanout to the home. If these are not found or accessible, we will not be able to perform these, but a professional plumber should be able to, but will be more expensive.

In most cases, damage to the sewer line is caused by something excluded from standard homeowners insurance. For example, if the pipe damage is attributed to faulty construction or poor upkeep, repairs usually won't be covered. Damages resulting from floods, pests, earthquakes, or tree roots are typically also excluded.

PVC pipes are more durable and do not break down as easily as other materials. Note where the trees are on your property, including the species they are. All that being said, we see many cases where the roots have penetrated PVC pipes, especially in the joints.

You'll receive the inspection report on the same day as the inspection!

We offer flexible scheduling and can often accommodate appointments within a few days, depending on your location and inspector availability.