What Is a Sewer Scope? Do I Need One?
If you’re a homeowner, then chances are good that you don’t think much about your home’s sewer system. But when something goes wrong with that system, it can cause big problems—and big repair bills. So it pays to keep an eye on your sewer and have it inspected regularly. One way to do that is with a Sewer Scope Inspection. This is an inspection of your sewer line using a special camera designed to give inspectors a clear view of what’s going on inside the pipe. Sewer scope inspections are important because they allow inspectors to check for things like blockages, damage, and leaks in your sewer line. These problems can lead to sewage backups into your home (yuck!), so catching them early is crucial. And since most homes’ sewers are located underground, inspecting them without a camera would be difficult (not to mention messy). A typical Sewer Scope Inspection takes about 30-45 minutes depending on the accessibility and condition of the cleanout(s). The inspector will first locate all accessible cleanouts for the property being inspected .The drain lines from each fixture will then be traced back until they connect together at what’s called “the main stack”, or hub where everything comes together before exiting out through one main drain pipe leading outside & away from the house or building being inspected. From there, a small diameter flexible fiber optic cable with a high definition video camera mounted on its tip, is inserted into each individual branch starting at every sink, toilet, tub/shower etc…working its way backwards until it eventually reaches “the Main Stack”. All along as this process happens, video images taken by this tiny little HD Camera are transmitted up through the cable & viewed live right above ground, allowing the Checklist Inspections Professional to show their client exactly what is happening below grade & explain any potential issues observed throughout the entire length of piping in question. Afterwards, a full color PDF report complete w/ digital photographs (if applicable) will be promptly emailed over, detailing everything discussed during the course of the Sewer Scope Inspection Process.
Top Signs You Need A Sewer Scope
We have gone over what a sewer scope inspection is. Now we have to determine whether you need one. Look for the following telltale signs to see if you need a sewer scope inspection:
- Large Tree Roots – One of the most common causes of pipe damage, tree roots can surround and constrict the pipe, cracking it or simply clogging it.
- Water Back Ups – Indication of a breakage in the line or a large clog.
- Age – If you own a home that is more than 50 years old, you may need to replace your degraded or damaged plumbing.
- Movement – If the soil or land around your home has shifted for any reason, the plumbing could have been affected.
- Patches of Lush Grass – Sewer water is a powerful fertilizer and can encourage excess growth. If there is a spot in your yard that has become particularly green or vibrant, it could be a sign.
- Rodents or Pests – The presence of rodents and pests is never welcome, but it can be a sign you need professional support.
Is A Sewer Scope Worth It?
The average cost to replace your sewer drains is $3,000 to $30,000, depending on location, size, and type of replacement. If the drains under your home are in poor condition, you might have to rip up the flooring to access the drains. Most sewer scope companies also recommend these inspections on new construction homes. This is because the sewers were just installed and not tested. It’s not uncommon for new construction drain lines to be cracked or improperly installed. Overall, the cost of having to possibly replace your sewer drains far outweighs the cost of the sewer scope inspection. Get in touch with Checklist Inspections today and schedule your sewer scope today!
