You've found the perfect home: it's got the cozy fireplace, the dream kitchen, and the backyard oasis you've always wanted. But amidst all the excitement of house hunting, there's one critical aspect that often gets overlooked–the sewer system. Yes, it's not the most glamorous topic, but trust us when we say that a sewer inspection could be the difference between a smooth-sailing homeownership dream and a costly nightmare down the line.
What is a Sewer Inspection?
Let's start with the basics. A sewer line inspection involves a thorough examination of your home's main sewer line, from the access point to the destination (public connection or septic tank) conducted by professional inspectors using advanced technology such as sewer scope cameras.
The camera is inserted into the main sewer line at an access point such as a cleanout or a roof vent to provide real-time footage of the line’s interior, allowing inspectors to identify any issues or potential problems lurking beneath the surface.
It is important to note that it is not an inspection of the entire DWV (Drain, Waste, and Vent) system, but only the portion of the main sewer line from the point of entry to the destination. There are many other lateral lines that dump into the main sewer line that are not inspected.
What Will a Sewer Inspection Find?
During a sewer scope camera inspection, inspectors will be on the lookout for a variety of issues, including:
- Blockages: Accumulated debris, grease, or tree roots can obstruct the flow of wastewater, leading to backups in the sewer drain and potential flooding.
- Cracks and Leaks: Aging sewer lines are susceptible to cracks and leaks, which can result in water damage to your property and the surrounding environment.
- Corrosion: Over time, sewer pipes can corrode due to natural aging or exposure to chemicals, soil conditions, and other environmental factors, compromising their structural integrity.
- Bellied Pipes: A belly is a section of the sewer line that has sunk or sagged due to shifting soil, improper installation, or even tree roots that create a low spot where waste and water stand or accumulate, increasing the risk of blockages and backups.
- Invasive Roots: Tree roots are notorious for seeking out sources of water, including sewer lines. When roots infiltrate the sewer pipe, they can cause blockages and structural damage, leading to costly repairs.
We certainly understand why you might think about skipping the sewer video inspection when buying a home–shelling out money for yet another inspection can be kind of frustrating. But consider this: the cost of a sewer inspection pales in comparison to the potential expenses of repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line.
Cleaning out a sewer line or removing tree roots is one thing, but if you need to replace any of the sewer line that goes under a driveway or the city street, the price tag usually starts around $10,000 and can be significantly more!! Wouldn’t you rather know that before signing on the dotted line–when you can negotiate with the seller–or after when the onus falls completely on you?
It's also natural to feel anxious about what a sewer inspection might uncover and if it will put a damper on buying your DREAM home. But remember, knowledge is power. Identifying potential issues early on allows you to address them proactively, preventing costly repairs and mitigating the risk of unexpected emergencies down the line.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Inspections
Typically, a sewer inspection takes around 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the size, age, and complexity of the sewer system.
As part of a home inspection for a house you’re interested in buying, we encourage you to be present at least part of the time. This way our inspectors can discuss their findings and address any questions or concerns you may have. You will receive a written report along with a video following the inspection.
If issues are detected during the inspection, our team will outline them in the detailed report along with the accompanying video and outline recommended sewer repairs or maintenance steps.
As a homeowner, we recommend scheduling a sewer inspection every 2-3 years, or sooner if you notice any warning signs such as slow drains, foul odors, or recurring backups. We recommend a sewer line inspection for every real estate transaction.
The sewer line of a home you’re interested in may not be a top-of-mind concern (it’s hard to compete with an open concept or granite countertops), but it certainly plays one of the most important roles in your comfort. The sewer line is the business end of the home and it must function normally for the home to be livable. By investing in a sewer inspection today, you're not just protecting your property–you're safeguarding your peace of mind for years to come.
Ready to schedule your sewer inspection? Contact 45th Parallel Home Inspection today to learn more about our services and to book your appointment. We serve the greater Vancouver WA and Portland OR metro areas and beyond.
