Sewer Scope

A sewer scope is a camera inspection of the underground lateral line — the pipe that carries waste from the home to the municipal main or septic tank. It's one of the most expensive systems in a house to repair and one that a standard visual inspection cannot see, because it's buried underground.

A specialized waterproof camera is fed through a cleanout or accessible drain and runs the length of the line while recording video. It reveals cracks, root intrusion, bellies (low spots that collect waste), separations, collapses, and blockages — problems that can cost thousands to tens of thousands to dig up and replace.

This matters most on two kinds of homes: older properties, where clay or cast-iron pipe and mature trees make root intrusion and pipe failure common, and homes on large or wooded lots. But even newer construction can hide a crushed line from careless backfill during the build.

You get video documentation and a written summary of what the camera found. On a home purchase, a failing sewer line discovered before closing is a negotiation; discovered after, it's your problem and your checkbook.

Sewer scope can be added to any inspection or booked standalone. Starting at $199.