{"id":9438,"date":"2023-02-01T12:00:59","date_gmt":"2023-02-01T17:00:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.realtyhop.com\/blog\/?p=9438"},"modified":"2023-02-01T13:43:40","modified_gmt":"2023-02-01T18:43:40","slug":"should-i-get-a-sewer-scope-inspection","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.realtyhop.com\/blog\/should-i-get-a-sewer-scope-inspection\/","title":{"rendered":"Should I Get a Sewer Scope Inspection?"},"content":{"rendered":"

When purchasing a home, homebuyers rely on home inspections<\/a> to find potential issues with a property. While home inspections thoroughly go around the property and comb through various areas of the home, they do not inspect sewer lines. However, replacing or repairing sewer lines can be costly due to backups and breakage, running into hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Sewer issues can also lead to health and environmental hazards in your home and surrounding community. For these reasons, buyers should consider acquiring an additional sewer scope inspection before closing.<\/p>\n

What Does a Sewer Scope Do?<\/h2>\n

During a sewer scope inspection, a plumber or trained inspector runs a camera from the sewer pipes inside the house, through the yard, and out to the main sewer line. <\/p>\n

To take care of any potential issues before move-in, a sewer scope inspector searches for cracks in the pipes or damage caused by overgrown tree roots. The inspection may also raise issues like a potentially expensive sewer pipe repair, which means a professional will need to dig up the yard, or even the floor of your home, to access broken pipes.<\/p>\n

The inspector may also find blockages caused by dirt, cooking grease, baby wipes, or other non-flushable materials. They will then report if the homeowners need to repair underground sewer pipes between the house and the main line. At this point, the potential buyer can accept the repair cost or attempt to negotiate with the seller to have them accept the financial responsibility.<\/p>\n

Where do Sewer Backups Occur?<\/h3>\n

Wastewater can back up through toilets or drains in the house. Sewer backups often occur at the lowest points in the house, so pay particular attention to the drains in those areas. Wastewater may backflow through a washing machine in the basement. <\/p>\n

What Factors Can Influence Your Decision to Get a Sewer Scope Inspection? <\/h2>\n

Due to the high cost of sewer line repairs, plus the associated health and environmental impacts, homebuyers should consider adding this inspection to their list of things to do before settlement. Certain factors may increase the need for a sewer scope inspection, such as the age of the home or noticeable signs of past sewer backups.<\/p>\n

City or Township Requirements<\/h3>\n

As the age of local sewer systems increases, cities or towns may begin to ask for a sewer scope inspection before closing a real estate transaction. Check for local ordinances or ask your real estate agent<\/a> about sewer inspection requirements. A seller might need to show proof of a sewer scope before issuing a use and occupancy permit (U&O) in conjunction with a transfer of ownership.<\/p>\n

Older Homes<\/h3>\n

As sewer pipes age along with a home, they may become compromised and more prone to failure. Before you schedule an inspection, try to find out the age of the home<\/a> and the type of sewer pipes, if possible, to determine their susceptibility to breakage.<\/p>\n

It is important to note that newer homes can also have sewer problems. While sewer pipes can grow weaker with age, newer pipes may also experience breakages. Homebuyers looking to purchase a newly constructed property should not write off the importance of a sewer scope inspection. <\/p>\n

Large Trees in the Yard<\/h3>\n

During the homebuilding process, landscapers may plant small trees, bushes, and other plants to increase a home\u2019s curb appeal. However, as those small plants grow larger, their roots grow deeper and stronger, potentially interfering with underground pipes. Roots can tangle around the pipes, causing them to break or become inaccessible. <\/p>\n

Certain pipes are more susceptible to breakage from roots than others. Older homes that use clay pipes can suffer more damage from strong roots. <\/p>\n

Noticeable Signs of Sewer Issues<\/h3>\n

If the seller discloses a past issue with a sewer backup, buyers should take heed and schedule an inspection. Buyers should also make a note of the following during a final walkthrough<\/a> <\/p>\n