What Lies Beneath: Why a Sewer Scope Inspection Is Worth Every Penny
At Elevate Inspections, we believe in taking your inspection experience to new heights — and sometimes that means going below ground. A sewer scope inspection is one of the most valuable add-ons you can schedule with your home inspection. It’s a simple step that can save you thousands of dollars and a lot of stress down the road.
What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection involves running a specialized camera through your home’s main sewer line to get a clear picture of what’s happening inside. This allows us to identify the type of pipe material, its overall condition, and any displacement, blockages, or damage that could lead to major plumbing issues.
When There’s No Easy Access
Not every home has a convenient exterior clean-out. In those cases, our inspectors take things to the next level — literally — by accessing the plumbing system through a roof vent pipe. From there, we can send our camera down the line to capture a full view of your home’s drainage system. Whether we enter from the ground or the roof, our goal is the same: to give you a clear understanding of what’s happening below your home.
What We’re Looking For
During your sewer scope inspection, we focus on key details that tell the story of your plumbing system:
Pipe Material: Identifying whether your lines are made of cast iron, clay, ABS, PVC, or even older materials like Orangeburg helps us determine potential lifespan and risk.
Pipe Condition: We check for cracks, corrosion, buildup, or root intrusion — all signs of wear that can impact function and flow.
Displacement or Connection Issues: Ground movement and time can cause sections of pipe to shift or separate. Even small displacements can lead to leaks or backups if not addressed early.
Why It Matters
Plumbing is one of the most expensive systems to repair or replace in a home. A sewer scope inspection gives you peace of mind and helps you understand what you’re getting into before closing on a property. Whether it’s a brand-new build or an older home, knowing the condition of your sewer line helps you plan ahead — and potentially negotiate repairs or credits before it’s too late.
Our Recommendations
If we find buildup or early deterioration, we may recommend hydrojetting (a high-pressure cleaning of the line) or pipe lining by a licensed plumber. These solutions can extend the life of your existing pipes and help you avoid a full replacement.
Going Above and Beyond
At Elevate Inspections, we go above and beyond to provide the information you need to make confident decisions about your home. Whether that means climbing on the roof or sending a camera deep underground, we’ll make sure you have a complete picture — because what you can’t see can cost you the most.
