Sewer Scope Inspection, Is It Worth The Cost? It Can Save You Thousands

By Jose Lopez, Certified Professional Inspector – L7 Home Inspections

For many clients, when buying a home, they think about the roof, HVAC system, or foundation. What 99% of my clients fail to think about is this hidden system underground that can cost them thousands if overlooked: the sewer line.

A sewer scope inspection is a simple yet powerful tool that could save you from major headaches—and major expenses—down the line.

What Is a Sewer Scope?

A sewer scope is a specialized inspection that uses a small, waterproof video camera to examine the main sewer line that runs from a house to the city sewer or septic system.

The inspector inserts the camera through a cleanout or access point and feeds it through the pipe to visually inspect the condition of the sewer line.

At L7 Home Inspections, we use state-of-the-art camera equipment to spot hidden issues before they become financial disasters.

 Common Problems a Sewer Scope Can Reveal

1. Blockages and Buildup

   Years of grease, debris, or non-flushable items can clog pipes—issues that often aren't visible from inside the home.

   
   

2. Tree Root Intrusion

   Roots are the #1 enemy of older clay or cast-iron pipes. They crack pipes, block flow, and lead to expensive excavation work.

   
   

3. Damaged Pipe or Collapse

   Shifting soil, corrosion, or poor installation can lead to broken, offset, or a belly in the line (sagging pipes).

   
   

How It Saves You Money

✅Avoid Unexpected Repair Costs

Sewer line repairs can range from $3,000 to over $20,000, especially if excavation is involved. In 2023, we experienced a severe blockage in our sewer line. We had to have a remediation team come to our home to cut the damaged drywall, removed damaged insulation, and clean-up the mess. The remediation company ran a camera through our sewer line and found a "belly" on the line. A belly is technically a sag on the pipe. There are numerous reasons for this to happen. $24,000 later our line was repaired. When we purchased our home, the inspector that did my inspection did not offer a sewer scope. Maybe, if he had offer it, he could had found the issue on our sewer line, or maybe it just happened afterwards.

A sewer scope inspection in Texas averages $550. The cost for a sewer scope inspection with L7 Home Inspection is $250. Since I have my sewer scope camera, I check our main sewer line at least once every other month.

✅ Negotiating Power

If you're under contract to buy a home and we find a sewer issue, you may be able to negotiate the repair cost with the seller—or walk away if it’s too severe. A few weeks back, I conducted an inspection for one of my clients. I offer them the sewer scope inspection, and they were a little hesitant about it, but I mentioned my story to them, and they decided to request the sewer scope. It paid off because I found a "belly" (sag) in the sewer line about 25 feet under the foundation. Her realtor requested a licensed plumber to check the line, and the plumber found the same thing I did and told her that it would be a very expensive repair, and it was no guarantee it will fix the issue. My client walked-away from that home and thanked me for saving her about $15,000 in repairs, which is what the plumber said it would probably cost her, if not more.

✅ Peace of Mind

Even if no issues are found, you gain confidence knowing your sewer line is clear and functional. Trust me, I wish I would have known if my sewer line was damaged when I was purchasing our home.

Is It Always Necessary?

If you're buying a home over 20 years old, or one with large trees nearby, yes—a sewer scope is a wise investment.

But even in newer homes, poor construction or builder shortcuts can lead to sewer line issues. We've found cracked, disconnected pipes, or poorly sloped lines in homes less than 5 years old, and even in new construction.

Trust the Experts

At L7 Home Inspections, we include Sewer Scope Inspections as an optional add-on to your full home inspection. We deliver video footage, photos, clear explanations, and honest advice so you can make informed decisions.

📞 Ready to schedule your inspection?

Contact us today and ask about adding a sewer scope. It's one small inspection that could protect your biggest investment.