Ensure Plumbing Peace Of Mind With A Proactive Sewer Inspection
Buying a home is exciting — until a hidden plumbing problem pops up right after closing. One of the smartest ways to protect yourself is with a sewer line scope inspection before you sign.
At Jim’s Plumbing Now, we help buyers see what a standard home inspection can miss: the true condition of the main sewer line. A simple camera check can reveal cracks, root intrusion, corrosion or bellies in the pipe that lead to backups and costly repairs.
If you’re weighing the pros and cons, we’ll put it plainly. When you’re investing six figures (or more) in a property, confirming the health of the sewer line is a small step that can prevent a big headache.
Why Inspecting Your Sewer Line Matters
Your sewer line is out of sight, but it shouldn’t be out of mind. Older homes may have clay or cast-iron lines more prone to corrosion and joint failures. Newer homes aren’t immune either — poor grading, construction debris or settling can stress the pipe.
A blockage or break doesn’t just cause an inconvenient clog. It can push wastewater back into tubs, showers and floors, driving remediation bills sky-high. When we inspect sewer line conditions with a camera, you get objective video evidence you can use to negotiate repairs, request credits or plan for maintenance.
In other words, you’re not guessing about a major system — you’re making decisions with clear data.
How A Sewer Line Scope Inspection Works
A sewer line scope inspection is quick, clean and noninvasive. Here’s our process:
- We access the main cleanout and feed a high-resolution, waterproof camera through the line.
- Real-time footage displays the pipe’s interior so we can spot cracks, offsets, bellies, roots, grease or debris.
- We mark depth and distance to pinpoint problem locations for accurate repair planning.
- You receive findings explained in plain language, plus video documentation for your records and negotiations.
Most inspections take under an hour and do not require any demolition. You’ll finish with clarity — not guesswork.
Is A Sewer Line Inspection Worth It?
Homebuyers often ask, “Is sewer line inspection worth it?”
We urge them to consider the math. A camera inspection typically costs a fraction of a repair, while sewer line replacements can run into the thousands, with the exact price depending on depth, length and surface restoration.
If the line is in good shape, you’ve bought peace of mind at a bargain. If we uncover issues, you’ve just avoided surprise expenses after move-in — and you have leverage to ask the seller for repairs or a price concession. Either way, the inspection pays you back in confidence and negotiation power.
Common Problems We Find
No one wants their first week in a new home to include a sewer backup or an unexpected repair bill. A sewer line scope inspection isn’t just about checking a box — it’s about uncovering hidden problems that could turn your dream home into a costly surprise.
By spotting issues now, you gain leverage in negotiations and protect yourself from sudden, expensive repairs after move-in. Here are some of the most common problems we uncover:
- Tree root intrusion — Roots seek moisture, breach joints and create blockages that escalate into backups.
- Cracked, collapsed or offset pipes — Soil movement, age or heavy loads can deform the line, restricting flow and trapping debris.
- Corrosion and scaling — Older metal pipes can flake internally, narrowing the passage and causing recurring clogs.
- Low spots, also known as “bellies” — Sagging sections collect wastewater and solids, leading to slow drains and foul odors.
- Construction debris or grease buildup — Everyday use (and sometimes careless builders) can leave obstructions that only a camera reveals.
Catching these conditions before closing gives you the chance to negotiate repairs, budget wisely or request seller concessions. It’s far better to address them on your terms than to face an emergency call and a hefty repair bill once you’ve settled in.
Why Choose Jim’s Plumbing Now
We built our reputation on precise diagnostics and straightforward recommendations. Our licensed technicians use advanced cameras to document exactly what’s happening underground and where. We’ll explain the footage, clarify your options and prioritize the most practical solutions for your timeline and budget — no scare tactics, no pressure.
If repairs are needed, we can provide clear estimates and next steps so you can coordinate with your agent and the seller. Buying a home is stressful enough. Our job is to remove uncertainty from the plumbing side and help you move forward with confidence.
Protect Your Investment Before You Buy
Don’t let a hidden sewer issue turn your new home into a renovation project. Schedule a sewer line scope inspection with Jim’s Plumbing Now during your option period and get the facts you need to make a smart decision.
We’ll inspect sewer line conditions thoroughly, share clear video evidence and help you understand the best path forward — whether that’s negotiating repairs, budgeting for future work or celebrating a clean bill of health.
