SEWER CAMERA INSPECTION
What Is It?
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A sewer camera inspection is a visual evaluation of the main sewer line serving the home. Because this line is buried underground, it cannot be assessed during a standard home inspection.
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A specialized waterproof camera is inserted into the sewer lateral to view the interior condition of the pipe. This can help identify issues such as root intrusion, pipe separation, cracking, corrosion, sagging sections (“bellies”), or blockages that may not be evident during normal fixture operation.
WHAT DOES THE INSPECTION CONSIST OF?
This service is coordinated as part of your inspection and performed by a licensed plumbing professional using professional-grade camera equipment.
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The process typically includes:
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Accessing the main sewer cleanout (when available)
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Advancing the camera through the sewer lateral toward the municipal or septic connection (when accessible)
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Video documentation of the pipe interior
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Identification of visible defects or obstructions
If an accessible cleanout is not present, alternative access (such as temporary toilet removal) may require additional time and cost.
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Findings provided by the plumber are documented and incorporated into your inspection materials.
Key Points For Sewer Scope Inspection
A few things to note regarding sewer scope inspection:
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Sewer lines are underground and expensive to repair if damaged.
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Problems may exist even when drains appear to function normally.
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This inspection evaluates the accessible interior condition of the sewer line at the time of inspection.
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It does not include excavation or guarantee future performance.
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Technical interpretation and repair recommendations are provided by the licensed plumbing professional performing the scope.
It's important to note that sewer scope inspection is a specialized service, and home inspectors should be properly trained and certified to conduct sewer scope inspection. If a home inspector is not certified to conduct sewer scope inspection, they should recommend that the homeowner hire a certified sewer scope professional.