The Importance of Sewer Main Inspections When Buying a Home

Buying a home is an exciting journey. However, it comes with important steps to ensure your dream property doesn’t turn into a costly nightmare. One often overlooked yet essential step is a sewer main inspection. This quick and affordable check can reveal critical information about the home’s sewer system. It gives you peace of mind and saves you from unexpected expenses.

What Is a Sewer Main Inspection?

A sewer main inspection uses a specialized camera to examine the sewer line that connects a home to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. A licensed professional inserts a high-resolution, flexible camera into the line to check for blockages, cracks, corrosion, or other issues. This non-invasive process takes less than an hour. It delivers a clear, detailed report on the system’s condition, making it an easy addition to your home-buying checklist.

The Process of Sewer Main Inspections

The inspection begins when a technician arrives at the property, equipped with a camera and related tools. They’ll access the sewer line through a cleanout, which is a fitting that allows for maintenance. Once the camera is inserted, it transmits a live feed back to the technician. As they navigate through the sewer line, they look for potential problems.

Why Sewer Main Inspections Are a Smart Choice

Courtesy of NACHI.ORG

1. Discover Hidden Issues Early

   Sewer lines are buried underground. Problems such as damage, tree root intrusion, pipe corrosion, or clogs are invisible without specialized equipment. The inspection uncovers these issues before you sign the dotted line. This gives you the upper hand in negotiations. For clients, this means no surprises after moving in; for realtors, it means ensuring your buyers are confident and protected.

   
   

2. Save Thousands on Repairs

   Sewer line repairs can cost between $3,000 and $25,000, depending on the problem and location. A collapsed or severely clogged line might require excavation, a hassle no new homeowner wants. By investing in an inspection (typically $200-$500), you can identify risks upfront. This investment can help you avoid inheriting costly problems. Realtors love recommending inspections. They keep clients from financial pitfalls and keep deals on track.

   
   

3. Protect Your Home and Health

   A damaged sewer line can lead to leaks, backups, or even sewage spills. These situations pose health risks and can cause property damage, such as mold or foundation issues. An inspection ensures the system is functioning properly, safeguarding your investment and your family’s health. For realtors, offering this service demonstrates commitment to their clients' long-term satisfaction.

   
   

4. Plan for the Future with Confidence

   Older homes (built before the 1980s) may have sewer lines made of materials like clay or cast iron. These materials are prone to wear. Even newer homes can have issues from poor installation or nearby tree roots. An inspection reveals the pipe’s age, material, and condition. This helps you plan for maintenance or upgrades. Clients appreciate this clarity, and realtors value how it streamlines the buying process by addressing potential concerns early.

   
   

Issues Don’t Have to Kill the Deal

Finding a problem during a sewer main inspection isn’t a reason to walk away from a home you love. Minor issues, like small clogs or cracks, are often inexpensive to fix. The inspection report gives you leverage to negotiate repairs or a lower price with the seller. Even significant issues can be manageable. Sellers may agree to fix the problem, or you can budget for repairs as part of your offer. For clients, this means moving forward with confidence, while for realtors, it keeps deals alive by providing actionable solutions rather than roadblocks.

Why Clients and Realtors Love Sewer Main Inspections

• For Clients: A sewer main inspection is a small investment for major peace of mind. It ensures you’re buying a home with a reliable sewer system. This protects your finances and your family’s health. Knowing the system’s condition empowers you to negotiate smarter and plan for the future. It makes your home-buying experience smoother and more secure.

  
  

• For Realtors: Recommending a sewer main inspection shows clients you’re thorough and dedicated to their interests. It reduces the risk of post-sale surprises that could sour a deal or harm your reputation. Plus, inspections provide clear data to keep negotiations moving forward. This helps you close deals faster and with happier clients.

  
  

When to Schedule a Sewer Main Inspection

Realtors often recommend a sewer main inspection as part of the due diligence process. It should be alongside a standard home inspection. Scheduling is especially critical if:

• The home is over 20 years old.

• Large trees are near the sewer line’s path.

• You notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or odors during a walkthrough.

• The seller lacks recent sewer maintenance records.

  
  

Adding this step to your checklist is a no-brainer—it’s quick, affordable, and provides invaluable insights.

How to Arrange an Inspection

Hire a home inspector or licensed plumber with the expertise and equipment to deliver reliable results. The cost, typically $200-$500, is a small price for the confidence it brings. Upon completion, you will receive a video recording and detailed report. These are perfect for sharing with your realtor or seller during negotiations. Many home inspectors offer sewer inspections as an add-on, but always confirm they have the right tools for the job.

What to Do with the Results

The inspection report will guide your next steps:

• No Issues Found: Move forward with confidence, knowing the sewer system is in great shape.

• Minor Repairs Needed: Use the report to negotiate with the seller for fixes or a price reduction, keeping your deal on track.

• Major Issues: Work with your realtor to request seller repairs, adjust your offer, or plan for future fixes. The inspection gives you the clarity to make smart decisions without abandoning a home you love.

  
  

Conclusion: A Simple Step for a Stress-Free Purchase

A sewer main inspection is a quick and affordable way to protect your investment and avoid surprises after closing. For clients, it’s a smart move that ensures your new home is as perfect below ground as it is above. For realtors, recommending this service builds trust and keeps deals moving smoothly. Don’t let hidden sewer issues catch you off guard—schedule a sewer main inspection today and buy your home with confidence!