Buying a home is exciting, but it comes with great responsibilities. Part of these responsibilities is to prioritize inspecting every prospected property. Most buyers check the roof, foundation, and electrical systems before inking the deal. But what about the sewer system? While the visible integrity of every home is your priority, checking the hidden systems is just as important.
Sewer line issues are costly and messy to fix. If the pipes are damaged, you might face backups, foul smells, and expensive repairs. Before you sign the papers, it’s smart to inspect the sewer line. This small step can save you thousands and protect your investment.
If you’re on the market, this plumbing guide may come in handy.
Why Sewer Line Inspection Matters
Sewer lines are buried underground, so problems aren’t always visible. A house might look perfect on the outside, but the pipes could be cracked, clogged, or broken.
Tree roots often invade old pipes, causing blockages. Over time, grease, soap, and waste build up inside the lines. Some older homes still have clay or cast iron pipes, which are more prone to breakdowns. If the sewer line collapses, it can cause backups inside the house.
A standard home inspection doesn’t cover the sewer system. Inspectors check sinks, toilets, and drains, but they don’t look deep into the main sewer line. That’s why hiring a plumber for a sewer camera inspection is important. A comprehensive sewer line inspection would reveal what you’re getting underneath, saving you from potential heartaches and financial loss.
How a Sewer Inspection Works
A sewer inspection is quick and non-invasive. A plumber uses a special camera to look inside the pipes. The camera is attached to a long, flexible cable. It is inserted into the sewer cleanout or a drain inside the house.
As the camera moves through the pipes, the plumber watches the live footage on a screen. They check for cracks, clogs, and other issues. If they find a problem, they can explain the damage and suggest a solution.
This process usually takes less than an hour. You’ll get a clear picture of the sewer line’s condition before making a purchase.
Common Sewer Line Problems in Homes
Many homebuyers are unaware of the risks hidden beneath their future property. Here are the most common sewer line issues found during inspections:
- Damaged pipes – Cracked or broken pipes are a major concern. Over time, shifts in the ground can cause pipes to crack. If left unfixed, these breaks can lead to leaks and sewage backups.
- Root blockages – Tree root intrusion is another big problem. Roots grow toward moisture, and sewer pipes provide the perfect environment. They sneak into tiny openings, expand, and eventually block the flow of waste. Removing roots is costly, and the problem often returns if not addressed properly.
- Rusty plumbing – Pipe corrosion is common in older homes. Cast iron pipes rust over time and become brittle. Corroded pipes can collapse, leading to serious drainage issues.
- Sagging pipes – Bellied pipes happen when a section of the pipe sags due to soil movement. Water and waste collect in the low spot, causing clogs and slow drainage.
- Common clogs – Blockages from grease, food, and other debris can also clog pipes. Over time, buildup restricts water flow, leading to slow drains and backups.
If a sewer line inspection finds any of these problems, you’ll know what to expect before buying the home. Either you demand that the seller fix these issues, or you look the other way for another risk-free investment.
What Happens If You Skip the Inspection?
Skipping a sewer line inspection can lead to unexpected problems. You might move in and notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or bad smells. These are signs of a hidden sewer issue.
Ignoring these warnings can lead to sewage backups inside your home. Wastewater can flood your basement or bathrooms, causing serious damage. The cost of cleaning and repairing the mess can be overwhelming.
Fixing a sewer line is expensive. A simple repair might cost a few hundred dollars. But if the entire line needs replacing, it can cost thousands. Some repairs require digging up the yard, which adds to the cost and inconvenience.
A sewer inspection helps you avoid these problems before buying. It gives you a chance to negotiate with the seller for repairs or a lower price.
Who Should Get a Sewer Inspection?
Every homebuyer should consider a sewer line inspection, but it’s especially important if:
- The home is more than 20 years old. Older pipes are more likely to have cracks, corrosion, or root intrusion.
- There are large trees in the yard. Tree roots are one of the biggest threats to sewer lines.
- You notice slow drains during the home tour. If sinks or tubs drain slowly, it could be a sign of a clog.
- The home has a history of plumbing issues. If the seller has mentioned past sewer problems, an inspection is a must.
Even if the house looks perfect, a hidden sewer issue can cause trouble later. Spending a little money now on an inspection can save you from a major repair bill later.
What to Do If the Inspection Finds Problems
If the plumber finds an issue, don’t panic. Not all sewer problems require a full replacement. Some can be fixed with minor repairs.
For small cracks or minor root intrusions, hydrojetting or trenchless repairs can restore the pipes. Hydrojetting uses high-pressure water to clear out clogs and roots. Trenchless methods, like pipe lining, repair the damage without digging up the yard.
If the pipes are severely damaged, replacement may be necessary. In that case, you can negotiate with the seller. Ask them to cover the repair cost or lower the home price. A sewer line inspection gives you the power to make an informed decision.
Protect Your Investment with a Comprehensive Sewer Inspection from Birmingham Drain Cleaning and Sewer Repair
A home is a big investment, and sewer problems can turn into a financial headache. A sewer line inspection is a small step that can prevent major trouble.
At Birmingham Drain Cleaning and Sewer Repair, we offer professional sewer camera inspections for homebuyers. Our experienced team will check for hidden issues and give you a full report. You’ll know exactly what you’re dealing with before you buy.
Don’t take chances with your new home. Call us today for a thorough sewer inspection, and buy with confidence!
