Understanding Sewer Scope Inspections and How They Can Help Homeowners

If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your sewer system until a problem arises. When clogs, backups, or slow drains occur, determining the exact cause can be difficult without physically inspecting the pipes. Sewer scope inspections provide a direct view inside the plumbing system, identifying issues before they become costly repairs.

Whether you’re purchasing a new home, maintaining an aging system, or troubleshooting ongoing drainage issues, a sewer scope inspection is one of the most effective ways to ensure a home’s plumbing system is in good condition. Knight Sewer and Drain offers sewer camera inspections. In this blog, we’ll tell you more about this important service.

How Sewer Scope Inspections Work

A sewer scope inspection involves inserting a high-resolution, waterproof camera into a home’s sewer line through an access point, usually a cleanout pipe. The camera travels through the pipe, transmitting real-time footage to a monitor so we can assess the condition of the sewer line. During the inspection, the technician looks for common problems such as root intrusion, pipe damage, blockages, or deterioration. Once this assessment is complete, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining the condition of the pipes, along with recommendations for repairs or maintenance.

The Benefits of a Sewer Scope Inspection

Early Problem Detection

Many plumbing issues develop gradually, with minor warning signs that you might overlook. A sewer scope inspection can catch these problems in the early stages before they cause expensive damage. For example, a small crack in a sewer pipe may not seem like an immediate concern, but over a long enough time period, it can widen and cause major leaks and even structural failure.

Saving Money on Costly Repairs

A full sewer line replacement is prohibitively expensive, often costing thousands of dollars. That’s why identifying problems early is so important. A sewer scope inspection can help homeowners like you take preventative measures that extend the lifespan of your plumbing system. For example, addressing a minor tree root infiltration is far cheaper than dealing with a completely blocked or collapsed pipe.

Making Informed Home-Buying Decisions

If you’re a prospective homebuyer, a sewer scope inspection can provide critical information about the condition of a home’s plumbing before you finalize the purchase. Many older homes, especially in established neighborhoods, having aging sewer lines that may require repairs or full replacements. An inspection allows buyers to negotiate repairs with the seller or budget for future maintenance costs.

Diagnosing Persistent Drainage Issues

If you experience any slow drains, sewage odors, or backups despite repeated drain cleanings, an inspection can reveal the underlying cause. Issues such as bellied pipes, where sections of the pipe have sagged, or severe grease buildup may require more than routine drain cleaning to fix.

What Sewer Scope Inspections Can Reveal

Tree Root Infiltration

Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can enter tiny cracks in sewer lines. Once inside, they continue growing expand the cracks, and eventually causing significant blockages. Root intrusion is a common issue in older neighborhood with mature trees.

Pipe Corrosion and Decay

If you live in an older home, you may have cast iron or clay pipes, which can deteriorate over time. Corrosion weakens the structural integrity of pipes, leading to leaks, clogs, and eventual collapse. If your home has an aging sewer infrastructure, a sewer scope inspection can determine if it’s time to replace your system.

Grease and Debris Buildup

Kitchen grease, soap scum, and debris can accumulate over time, which can narrow the diameter of sewer pipes. This buildup restricts water flow and increases the risk of blockages, requiring professional cleaning methods such as hydro jetting to remove.

Pipe Misalignment or Bellied Sections

Shifting soil and ground movement can cause sewer pipes to misalign or sag. When a pipe sages, waste and debris settle into the low point, creating repeated clogs and slow drainage.

Cracks and Leaks

Cracked sewer pipes allow wastewater to seep into the surrounding soil, leading to potential foundation issues, yard damage, and environmental concerns. Even minor cracks can expand over time, making early detection crucial.

When to Schedule a Sewer Scope Inspection

Buying a Home

A standard home inspection does not include a sewer scope inspection, yet plumbing problems can cause some of the most expensive repairs imaginable. Scheduling an inspection before closing on a home purchase can prevent unexpected repair costs.

Experiencing Recurring Drain Issues

Slow drains, sewage backups, or persistent odors despite attempts to clear the pipes are all signs it’s time for an inspection to identify the root cause of the issue.

Owning an Older Home

If you live in a home built before the 1980s, chances are you have pipes made of clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg, which are prone to deterioration. It’s important to have periodic inspections to detect potential failures before they occur.

Before Major Renovations

If you plan to add a bathroom, remodel a kitchen, or increase water usage in any way, a sewer scope inspection can ensure the existing plumbing can handle the additional demand. Discovering pipe damage before starting construction can prevent costly changes mid-project.

What to Expect After a Sewer Scope Inspection

Once the inspection is complete, the plumber will review the findings with you. Many companies provide a video recording of the inspection, allowing you to see any issues firsthand. The report will outline:

• The overall condition of the sewer line
• Any obstructions, cracks, or buildup detected
• Recommendations for cleaning, repairs, or replacement

If the plumber finds any minor issues, he or she may suggest routine maintenance such as hydro jetting or root removal. In cases of significant damage, trenchless repair methods or full sewer line replacement may be necessary.

How Homeowners Can Prepare for an Inspection

• Locate the sewer cleanout: This is the access point where the camera will be inserted. If the home does not have one, the plumber may need to remove a toilet or access the sewer line another way.
• Clear the area: If the cleanout is in a basement or crawlspace, ensure the plumber has easy access.
• Avoid using water: Running water during the inspection can affect visibility inside the pipes.

A sewer scope inspection can be invaluable for homeowners, whether you’re diagnosing persistent plumbing problems, purchasing a home, maintaining an older property. At Knight Sewer and Drain, we’re committed to providing you with a clear view of your sewer system’s condition, helping you to make informed decisions and prevent costly repairs. Scheduling an inspection at the right time can protect your home’s plumbing infrastructure, ensuring reliable drainage for years to come. Contact us today to schedule your inspection in Milwaukee County!