What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection and Why You Need One

What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection is a specialized evaluation that checks the condition of a home’s sewer line—the pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer or septic system.

During the inspection, a professional inserts a small video camera through the sewer line to look for blockages, cracks, tree root intrusion, corrosion, or other hidden issues that could lead to expensive repairs later.

While a general home inspection covers visible systems like plumbing fixtures, roofing, and HVAC, it doesn’t include underground pipes. That’s why a separate sewer scope inspection is an essential step, especially for older homes or properties with mature trees.

How a Sewer Inspection Works

A sewer scope inspection usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and involves these steps:

1. Access Point: The technician inserts a camera through the home’s cleanout or main drain line.
2. Camera Feed: A live video feed displays the inside of the sewer pipe on a monitor.
3. Assessment: The inspector checks for cracks, leaks, buildup, and blockages.
4. Report: You’ll receive a detailed report or video file outlining any issues and repair recommendations.

This quick, noninvasive process can reveal potential plumbing problems before they turn into emergencies.

Why Sewer Inspections Matter for Homebuyers

A sewer scope inspection is one of the smartest investments a homebuyer can make. Here’s why:

• Prevent Costly Repairs: Sewer line replacements can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 or more, depending on the damage.
• Spot Hidden Issues Early: Problems like root intrusion or pipe corrosion aren’t visible during a standard home inspection.
• Gain Negotiating Power: If the inspection reveals a problem, you can ask the seller to make repairs or adjust the sale price.
• Peace of Mind: Knowing your sewer line is in good condition means fewer surprises after move-in.

When you’re financing your home through a trusted local lender like ALCOVA Mortgage, a sewer inspection adds another layer of protection to your investment.

When You Should Get a Sewer Inspection

While every homebuyer can benefit, sewer inspections are especially important if:

• The home is more than 20 years old.
• There are large trees near the sewer line.
• You’ve noticed slow drains or foul odors.
• The property has had previous plumbing repairs.
• The area has clay or cast-iron pipes, which are prone to deterioration.

Even if the property appears well-maintained, underground issues can develop over time. Getting the inspection done before closing could save you thousands later.

How Much Does a Sewer Scope Inspection Cost?

On average, a sewer inspection costs between $125 and $350, depending on your location and the property’s layout. Compared to the potential cost of repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line, it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.

Your ALCOVA Mortgage loan officer can help you plan inspection costs into your homebuying budget, so you’re financially prepared for every step of the process.

Learn more about what’s included in a home inspection and other smart moves to make before closing.

What Happens If the Sewer Inspection Finds Problems?

If your inspector identifies damage or blockages, don’t panic—there are options.
You can:

• Request repairs from the seller before closing.
• Negotiate a lower sale price to offset the cost of fixing the issue.
• Walk away from the deal if the damage is too severe.

Your real estate agent and loan officer at ALCOVA Mortgage can help you understand your options and make the best decision for your situation.

Protect Your Investment with ALCOVA Mortgage

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make. A sewer scope inspection ensures you’re making that decision with full confidence—and ALCOVA Mortgage is here to guide you every step of the way.

From pre-qualification to closing, we help you understand each phase of homeownership—so you can focus on what matters most: finding the right home for you.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re buying your first home or your forever home, ALCOVA Mortgage is your trusted partner in making smart, informed decisions.

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