If you own property with a sewer line installed, there’s a good chance you’ve never actually seen inside of it before. In fact, most of us have no idea what’s lurking down below our homes until something goes wrong and we need repairs. A full inspection of your sewer line is a crucial first step toward identifying potential issues and preventing costly repairs later on. When your sewer line requires any type of maintenance, it’s important to know what to expect so you can prepare accordingly. A sewer scope inspection will give you a comprehensive overview of your sewer system layout, including the location of all sewer lines, their condition and any potential issues you need to be aware of. This type of inspection can be an important part of any real estate purchase contract or home warranty policy. A sewage inspection is also recommended for rental properties to ensure future tenants have reliable service and don’t end up with a clogged line that costs money to unclog or requires major repairs.
What to Expect From a Sewer Scope Inspection
A sewer scope inspection is basically an in-depth look at your sewer line that will give you a full overview of the condition of the pipes. Depending on the type of inspection you need, it may include digging up your sewer line or using a camera to take a look at the inside. Here are some things you can expect from a sewer scope inspection:
A visual inspection of the sewer line and surrounding area, including the size of the opening and the amount of debris and sediment inside.
A list of any issues or potential problems that need attention. This can include broken or missing pipes, collapsed sewer lines, roots growing into the line or other issues that could lead to costly repairs.
An estimate of how much it will cost to fix any problems. This can help you budget for future repairs if needed.
How to Prepare for a Sewer Scope Inspection
If you’re currently in the process of buying or selling a home, a sewer scope inspection is one of the first things your realtor will order. If you’re the seller, this likely means you’re already in the process of cleaning up your property to bring it up to code. However, if you’re on the hunt for your next home and notice an issue with your sewer line, it’s a good idea to get it looked at as soon as possible. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for a sewer scope inspection:- Clear out any debris or materials near the pipe. This will help the inspector have a better view of the pipe itself.- If you’re renting, you can ask the current tenant to let the landlord know about any issues they’ve had with the sewer line. This way, the landlord can get the problem fixed before they move in and avoid being stuck with a nasty sewage backup.
How to Find a Qualified Sewer Scope Inspector
The first step in getting a sewer scope inspection is finding a qualified inspector. There are a few different types available, so be sure to find the right one for your needs. If you’re buying or selling a home, you’ll likely want to find an inspector who works on sewer lines for their inspection. If you’re buying a home, the inspector will come out and look at the property’s sewer line and give you an estimate on how much it will cost to repair any issues found. If you’re selling a home, an inspector will come to the property and look at the sewer line and let you know what issues they see in the pipe. If you’re renting, a more general inspection might be all you need to protect yourself and your tenants from a potential sewage problem.
How to Protect Yourself During a Sewer Scope Inspection
While a sewer scope inspection can be a good thing and let you know everything is in good working order, it’s also important to protect yourself from possible scammers and other people looking for an easy way to make money. Here are a few tips on how to protect yourself during a sewer scope inspection:- Be on time. A few minutes could cost you tens of thousands of dollars in repairs if something goes wrong during the inspection.- Don’t make any promises. If the inspector asks you to sign a promise that you won’t sue them if anything goes wrong, don’t sign it.- Stay away from the sewer line. While you don’t want to be rude, you also don’t want to be in the line of fire if something goes wrong. Let the inspector do their job without getting in the way.
Bottom line
A sewer scope inspection is the first step toward identifying potential issues with your sewer line and finding a solution. This type of inspection can help you get a better idea of the condition of your line and what you might need to do to keep your system in good shape. If you’re buying or selling a home, a sewer scope inspection is a good idea to make sure you’re well-prepared for the future and can avoid costly repairs down the line. A sewer scope inspection can be a great first step toward finding out if your system needs any repairs or if everything is in tip-top shape.