Sewer Scope Inspection
Don’t skip the sewer. Add a video inspection to your home inspection and avoid the most expensive surprise in home buying.
A sewer scope inspection uses a specialized video camera to examine the interior of your home’s sewer line from the house to the city connection point. This hidden system can harbor expensive problems that a visual home inspection cannot detect. While available as a standalone service, a sewer scope is most valuable when performed alongside your home inspection; it gives you a complete picture of your property’s condition and saves you $100 through our Essential Bundle.
The Service
Our sewer scope inspection uses a high-definition camera to thoroughly examine your sewer line from the house to the city connection. The flexible camera head navigates through pipes of various materials and sizes, revealing conditions invisible to the naked eye. You’ll receive a recorded video of the inspection and a detailed written assessment of any issues found, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs.
The Process
Jeff locates and accesses your sewer cleanout — the entry point for the camera. If no accessible cleanout exists, he’ll recommend options for creating access.
The high-definition camera is inserted and guided through your sewer line, recording the entire journey from house to city connection.
As the camera travels through your sewer line, Jeff records the entire inspection and documents any issues found. Unlike companies that simply run the camera, Jeff’s 30+ years of construction experience allows him to accurately interpret what the camera reveals, distinguishing between minor issues and significant concerns that require attention.
Jeff provides real-time commentary during the inspection and points out any areas of concern. You’ll see exactly what he sees as the inspection progresses.
You’ll receive clear guidance on any necessary repairs, their urgency, and potential solutions, giving you the information you need to make informed decisions.
Why It Matters
Sewer line replacements are among the most expensive surprise repairs in home buying, typically costing anywhere from $7,000 to $15,000 in the Seattle area — sometimes much more when landscaping restoration is needed. Unlike other home systems, sewer lines remain completely hidden without specialized equipment.
Certain factors significantly increase your risk of sewer issues:
Properties built before 1980 often have clay or cast iron pipes that deteriorate over time
Large trees near the sewer line path can send roots seeking water through tiny cracks
Our wet conditions accelerate deterioration of older pipe materials
Previous plumbing issues, slow drains, or vacant periods increase risk
New driveways, patios, or additions can damage or stress sewer lines
Common Findings
Tree roots are naturally attracted to the water in sewer lines and can enter through tiny cracks or joints. Once inside, they grow and expand, causing blockages and further damage to the pipe. In the Pacific Northwest, our abundant rainfall and large evergreen trees make this the #1 cause of sewer line failures.
Over time, pipe sections can separate at joints or completely collapse, especially in older clay or cast iron pipes. This creates major blockages and can lead to sewage backups into the home or leakage into surrounding soil.
When pipes sink or settle, they create low spots where water pools and debris collects. These ‘bellies’ slow drainage and eventually lead to blockages. They’re often caused by improper installation or ground settling.
Small cracks can develop from ground movement, freezing temperatures, or aging materials. While minor at first, these allow water to escape and soil to enter, eventually leading to more serious failures.
Foreign objects, grease buildup, or scale deposits can create partial or complete blockages. Our camera identifies exactly what’s causing slow drains or backups, allowing for targeted solutions.
DIY or unprofessional repairs often create new problems. We frequently find improper materials, misaligned pipes, or temporary fixes that have failed. The camera reveals these issues so they can be properly addressed.
Jeff inspected a home we were interested in purchasing. He was so professional and thorough. He even gave us images of the home (360) and upon a concern, scoped the sewer line for us. The company is cost-efficient and just tied everything up in a nice bow. Thank you again!
Buyer
Investment
$300
$200
Save $100 when you add a sewer scope to our Essential Bundle home inspection.
$300
Comprehensive video inspection of sewer line from the house to the city connection.
Book online in minutes or give Jeff a call.
