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Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and while most buyers know to schedule a home inspection, the plumbing system often gets overlooked. Specifically, the condition of the sewer and drain lines can be a hidden problem that costs thousands of dollars to repair. That’s why scheduling a professional drain and sewer camera inspection before you buy a house is absolutely essential.
What Is a Drain and Sewer Camera Inspection?
A drain and sewer camera inspection uses specialized video equipment to look directly inside the pipes that run from your home to the city’s sewer line. This gives plumbers a clear picture of what’s happening inside your plumbing system—something a regular plumbing inspection cannot provide.
Why It Matters Before Buying a Home
Unlike leaky faucets or outdated fixtures, sewer line issues are not visible during a walk-through. Problems such as tree root intrusion, cracked pipes, or years of buildup can remain hidden until a major backup occurs. By investing in a camera inspection before closing on your home, you can uncover these potential issues and avoid surprise expenses later.
Common Problems a Sewer Camera Inspection Reveals
- Tree root intrusion that blocks or damages sewer lines
- Cracked or collapsed pipes in older homes
- Grease and debris buildup restricting water flow
- Improperly installed pipes from past DIY or unlicensed work
- Standing water or blockages that could lead to costly repairs
The Cost of Skipping a Sewer Inspection
Repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line can cost anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Without a camera inspection, these problems may remain hidden until you’re the one responsible for the repairs. Spending a small amount on an inspection now can save you major headaches and financial stress in the future.
Protect Your Investment
A sewer camera inspection provides peace of mind that your new home’s plumbing system is in good shape. If problems are found, you may be able to negotiate repairs with the seller or decide if the property is worth the investment at all. Either way, you’ll go into the purchase with the knowledge you need to make a smart decision. Learn more about our plumbing services that help maintain home plumbing systems.
Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection
If you’re considering buying a home, don’t skip this critical step. At Fix & Flow Plumbing Co., our licensed plumbers provide professional sewer camera inspections to ensure your new home’s plumbing is safe and reliable. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and protect your investment before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a sewer camera inspection necessary when buying a house?
While not legally required, a sewer camera inspection is highly recommended. It can reveal hidden issues that a standard home inspection might miss, potentially saving you thousands in unexpected repairs.
Can a sewer camera inspection fix my plumbing problems?
No. The inspection only identifies issues. Some companies may offer clearing services like hydro-jetting during the same visit, but repairs such as pipe lining or replacement are separate services. Learn more about our sewer repair services.
How much does a sewer camera inspection cost?
Costs typically range from $200 to $1,000 depending on pipe length, accessibility, and whether additional clearing is needed. Consider it a small investment compared to the cost of major sewer repairs.
Will homeowners insurance cover sewer line problems?
Many standard policies exclude sewer line repairs unless you have a specific rider for sewer backup. A pre-purchase inspection helps you understand the condition and plan for coverage or repairs.