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Sewer Scope: Home Inspection Essential

Introduction

A home inspection is a must when purchasing a new home. Sewer scope inspections are a critical part of the overall process, as they provide insight into the condition of the sewer line running from the house to the city sewer system. In this article we will break down why it’s so important.

What is a Sewer Scope?

Sewer scopes are special cameras that use lighted probes and specialized software to inspect pipes for blockages and breaks. The camera sends images of what it finds along the length of the pipe back to monitors outside where a home inspector can look for signs of damage, blockages, cracks, or root intrusion. Armed with the camera feed, a home inspector can thoroughly analyze the condition of a property’s sewer line and make recommendations for repair if necessary.

Why Should You Get a Sewer Scope Inspection?

Getting a sewer scope inspection on your property before you purchase it is essential, as it can reveal problems like collapsed pipes, leaking joints, and clogs in the drain line. If you have an older home with cast iron pipes, getting a sewer scope with your home inspection is recommended to detect any issues while you’re still in your due diligence period. By having a sewer scope inspection performed, you can rest assured that any potential issues with your property’s sewer line will be identified and dealt with quickly, ensuring that you get the best out of your home purchase.

What Does a Sewer Scope Cost?

The cost of having sewer lines inspected varies depending on how long it takes and what services are needed beyond taking pictures with a camera snake device. On average, professional companies charge between $200-$500 for inspection services including video streaming access of footage directly from their cameras via laptop computers or tablets. Some home inspection companies offer a sewer scope as an additional service to your inspection, thus saving you precious time.

What Does a Sewer Line Repair Cost?

Repairing a sewer line can be an expensive endeavor – the cost of excavation and replacing the pipe alone can range from $2,000 to as much as $20,000 depending on the complexity of the job. If a property has been neglected or unmaintained over some time, costs could increase significantly due to extra repairs being needed. Furthermore, older homes with cast iron pipes may require additional work to prepare them for repair which can result in even greater costs.

Bringing It All Together

A sewer scope inspection is an essential component of a comprehensive home inspection when purchasing older homes, as it provides numerous benefits for homebuyers. A sewer scope inspection can detect early signs of sewer issues, helping to avoid costly repairs down the line. It also protects the health and safety of the homeowner by identifying potential hazards in the sewer line. By including a sewer scope in a home inspection, homebuyers can make an informed decision about the home they’re considering, as they will have a clear understanding of the condition of the sewer line.

HomeGuard Inspections™ offers home inspection and commercial property inspection services in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area from Ogden to Spanish Fork and Heber to Tooele. Contact us to request an inspection.