Why get a sewer scope?

Published on 2 November 2024 at 06:12

Because it can save you up to $20,000 on a real estate transaction

A **sewer scope** is a type of inspection that involves using a specialized camera to examine the condition of a property's sewer line. The camera is attached to a long, flexible cable that is inserted into the sewer line through a cleanout access point, then pushed through the pipe to visually inspect its interior. Here’s what a sewer scope involves and why it’s important:

### What a Sewer Scope Involves
1. **Inserting a Camera**: A technician inserts a small, waterproof camera attached to a long cable into the sewer line.
2. **Inspecting the Line**: The camera transmits video footage to a monitor, allowing the technician to see inside the pipe in real-time. The technician can spot issues such as cracks, blockages, or root intrusions.
3. **Documenting the Findings**: The video footage is often recorded and can be provided to the homeowner or potential buyer, along with a report detailing any findings.

### Why a Sewer Scope is Important
1. **Detecting Damage and Blockages**
- It helps identify issues such as **cracked pipes**, **broken sections**, **clogs**, or **blockages** caused by debris, grease, or tree roots.
- Identifying these problems early can help prevent severe backups and costly repairs.

2. **Preventing Sewer Line Failure**
- Sewer line damage can lead to wastewater backing up into the home, which is a health hazard and can cause significant water damage.
- Early detection through a sewer scope can help address problems before they worsen and become more expensive to fix.

3. **Real Estate Transactions**
- For **homebuyers**, a sewer scope can reveal the condition of the sewer line before purchasing the property, avoiding unexpected repair costs.
- For **sellers**, having a sewer scope inspection done beforehand can address potential issues, making the home more attractive to buyers and avoiding surprises during negotiations.

4. **Assessing Older Homes**
- Older homes often have sewer lines made from materials like **clay**, **cast iron**, or **Orangeburg**, which can deteriorate over time. A sewer scope can assess the condition of these older materials.
- It helps ensure that the sewer system is functioning properly and doesn’t need immediate replacement.

5. **Tree Root Intrusions**
- Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and can grow into sewer lines, causing damage or blockages. A sewer scope can detect root intrusions and help determine whether a root-clearing service or pipe repair is needed.

6. **Before Major Landscaping or Remodeling**
- If you plan to do extensive landscaping or a major remodel that could impact the sewer line, a sewer scope can help ensure there are no existing issues.

### Common Problems Found During a Sewer Scope
- **Pipe Bellies**: Sections of the pipe where water pools due to sagging.
- **Root Intrusions**: Tree roots growing into the pipe joints or cracks.
- **Corrosion or Deterioration**: Aging pipes made of materials like cast iron or clay can deteriorate.
- **Clogs and Blockages**: Built-up debris, grease, or foreign objects blocking the line.
- **Cracks or Breaks**: Structural damage to the pipe that can lead to leaks or collapses.

A sewer scope inspection is a valuable tool for maintaining a property's plumbing system and avoiding costly future repairs.

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