By Focused Property Inspections (FPI)
When you’re buying a home, there’s a lot happening beneath the surface. One of the most overlooked but critical parts of a property’s health sits underground — the sewer line. A sewer-scope inspection gives you a clear picture of what’s happening inside those pipes before you sign the papers. It’s one of the smartest investments a buyer can make and can save thousands in surprise repairs later.
What Is a Sewer-Scope Inspection?
A sewer-scope inspection uses a high-definition camera to look inside the home’s lateral sewer line, the pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the city system. The camera provides real-time video of the pipe’s interior, revealing root damage, blockages, cracks, and breaks that a standard home inspection can’t catch.
Think of it like a diagnostic scan for your home’s plumbing. Not glamorous, but absolutely essential if you want to know what you’re getting into.
What Do We Inspect?
Our inspectors focus on the lateral sewer line, which runs from the house to the main city connection. That’s where most problems hide. Common findings include:
- Root Damage: Tree roots infiltrate joints and cracks, causing clogs and leaks.
- Pipe Breaks or Collapses: Common in older clay or cast-iron systems.
- Blockages: Grease, wipes, debris, and even small toys can clog the line.
Even newer homes can have issues. Construction debris, improper installation, or soil settling can all impact performance.
Why It Matters
Your sewer line quietly handles thousands of gallons of wastewater every year. When it’s working, you never think about it. When it fails, it’s a disaster — backups, foul odors, and expensive excavation work.
Two big reasons to get a sewer-scope inspection:
- Keep Wastewater Flowing
Catching problems early keeps your plumbing system efficient and prevents backups that can damage fixtures and floors. - Save Thousands in Repairs
A sewer line replacement can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000. Identifying issues before closing gives you leverage in negotiations and peace of mind afterward.
Our Process
At Focused Property Inspections, we follow a clear, consistent process designed for accuracy and transparency.
- Notify the Homeowner: We explain the procedure, what we’re inspecting, and what to expect.
- Locate the Access Point: We find the best entry for the camera, usually a clean-out or drain line, and confirm the direction of the lateral run.
- Gather Tools and Begin: Our certified inspectors prepare the equipment, ensuring calibration and cleanliness before starting.
This step-by-step approach keeps things efficient and professional every time.
The Inspection Step by Step
Once setup is complete, here’s how it goes:
- Run water to flush the lines.
- Place drop cloths to protect the work area.
- Set up the camera and record the clean-out area.
- Record the line and pause at any defects.
- Stop at the tap, then pull the camera back while recording.
- Reinstall the clean-out, turn on the water, and check for leaks.
Afterward, you’ll get a video recording and a detailed report showing what we found and what it means for you.
Interpreting the Results
Not every imperfection is a crisis. Our inspectors give clear, honest feedback:
- Minor Debris or Scaling: Usually just maintenance.
- Moderate Root Intrusion: May require cleaning or localized repair.
- Major Cracks or Collapses: Often needs excavation or trenchless repair.
Every client gets the full recording and report so you can see exactly what we saw. No mystery, no sales pitch — just facts and recommendations.
Why Choose FPI for Sewer-Scopes
At Focused Property Inspections, our team is InterNACHI-certified and trained to deliver accurate, professional results. We combine advanced technology with clear communication so you understand what’s happening and what to do next.
We don’t exaggerate problems to scare you, and we don’t gloss over issues to make a sale. We give you the truth so you can make confident decisions.
When to Schedule One
- Before You Buy: Always include a sewer-scope in your pre-purchase inspections, especially on homes built before 1990.
- Before Major Renovations: Make sure your sewer line can handle the increased flow.
- If You Notice Problems: Slow drains, gurgling toilets, or recurring clogs are red flags.
A small inspection now can prevent a massive repair later.
The Bottom Line
Your home might look perfect on the surface, but without a healthy sewer system, you’re sitting on a time bomb. A sewer-scope inspection gives you the knowledge to make smart, confident decisions and protect your investment.
Call Focused Property Inspections today and schedule your sewer-scope inspection.
📞 1-833-FPI-INSP
🌐 www.fpi-web.com