Should You Get the Main Sewer Line Scanned Before Purchasing a Home?
This was a question that I was recently asked by a friend of mine. Going back into my history with buying homes, I'm Ohfer, as in 0 for 2. Let me explain. House 1. Back in 2012 I purchased a home, sight unseen other than internet pictures, near the famous 50th and France district. Long story, but I was living in GA and it was time to leave Dodge. Older home built in 1924. When I sold it in 2015, the prospective buyer ordered a sewer scan. The problem was that the access / clean out port (to insert the camera) was DIY'd into the waste line for an elevated toilet by one of the previous owners. You can't make this stuff up. The toilet actually looked like a throne room with the added elevation. So an access had to installed to bring it up to code. Luckily no big problems with the clay sewer line out to the street but still ....
Ok House 2. Fast forward to 2018 and another home was purchased. I was the buyer and I did not order a sewer scan. Unfortunately problems with slow drainage and frequent plugging happened within a year of moving in. We soon found out the inside surface of the waste line (cast iron, not PVC) had very serious scaling from mineral deposits, like magnesium and calcium. The effective inside diameter was such that plugging would be the norm if something wasn't done. About $10K later and having a really cool (and obviously expensive) machine with 3 rotating diamond blades clean all the way to the street. About 80-90 feet as I recall.
Buying a home is a significant investment, and as a prospective homeowner, you want to ensure that your dream property doesn’t turn into a financial nightmare. Among the many inspections and evaluations you may consider, one often overlooked yet critical step is getting the main sewer line scanned with a camera before closing the deal.
A sewer line inspection can uncover potential problems lurking beneath the surface that might otherwise go unnoticed during a traditional home inspection. However, is it worth the time and expense? Let’s explore the pros and cons of having the main sewer line scanned, helping you make an informed decision about this crucial aspect of your home purchase.
What Is a Main Sewer Line Camera Inspection?
A main sewer line camera inspection involves inserting a small, waterproof camera into the home’s main sewer line to inspect its condition. The camera is attached to a flexible rod, allowing it to navigate through the pipes while transmitting real-time video footage to a screen.
This process helps identify potential issues such as blockages, tree root intrusions, pipe deterioration, and misaligned or collapsed pipes that could lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.
The Pros of Getting a Sewer Line Camera Inspection
1. Identifying Hidden Issues
Sewer line problems often remain hidden until they cause noticeable symptoms like slow drainage, backups, or foul odors. By using a camera, you can detect issues before they escalate, giving you a clearer picture of the home’s overall condition.
Example: A camera inspection might reveal tree roots that have infiltrated the sewer line. While the plumbing may seem fine now, these roots could cause significant blockages in the future.
2. Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Sewer line repairs can be among the most expensive home repairs, often costing thousands of dollars. Identifying problems before purchasing the home allows you to:
• Negotiate with the seller to address the issue.
• Factor repair costs into your budget.
• Walk away from the deal if the problem is too severe.
3. Peace of Mind
Knowing the sewer line is in good condition provides peace of mind as you move forward with the purchase. It eliminates the fear of unexpected plumbing emergencies shortly after moving in.
4. Understanding the Lifespan of the Sewer System
A sewer camera inspection can provide insight into the age and material of the pipes, such as clay, cast iron, or PVC. Older materials may be more prone to damage and may need replacing sooner.
Example: If the inspection reveals outdated clay pipes, you can plan for future upgrades and avoid surprises.
5. Tailored Homeowner Maintenance Plans
If the inspection reveals minor issues, you can address them proactively with targeted maintenance. For example, you might schedule routine drain cleaning or implement measures to prevent tree root growth.
The Cons of Getting a Sewer Line Camera Inspection
1. Additional Expense
A sewer camera inspection typically costs between $300 and $500, depending on your location and the complexity of the job. For some buyers, this might feel like an unnecessary expense on top of other inspection costs.
2. Potential Delays
Scheduling a sewer inspection might delay your home-buying process if you’re on a tight timeline. If the inspection uncovers problems, additional negotiations or repairs could further extend the timeline.
3. Uncovering Problems That Could Complicate the Sale
While discovering issues is generally a good thing, it can sometimes complicate the purchase process. Sellers may be unwilling to make repairs or reduce the asking price, leading to tough decisions for buyers.
4. Not Always Necessary
If the home is newly built or the seller can provide evidence of a recent sewer inspection, a camera inspection might not be necessary. However, skipping it based on assumptions can still be risky.
Factors to Consider When Deciding
To determine whether a sewer line camera inspection is right for you, consider the following factors:
1. Age of the Home
Older homes are more likely to have aging or deteriorating sewer systems, making an inspection a wise investment. Homes built before the 1980s may have clay or cast iron pipes, which are more susceptible to cracking and corrosion.
2. History of Plumbing Issues
Ask the seller or review disclosures to identify any history of sewer or plumbing problems. If there have been frequent backups or repairs, an inspection is strongly recommended.
3. Presence of Trees Near the Home
Large trees near the property could mean potential root intrusion into the sewer line, even if there are no visible signs of trouble.
4. Local Sewer Conditions
Research the area to learn about common sewer issues. In some regions, older neighborhoods or areas with shifting soil may have a higher risk of sewer line problems.
5. New Construction
For new builds, a sewer camera inspection might not be as critical. However, improper installation or construction debris in the pipes can still cause issues, so it may still be worth considering.
What Happens If Problems Are Found?
If the sewer camera inspection reveals problems, you have several options:
1. Negotiate with the Seller
Request that the seller address the issue before closing or reduce the purchase price to cover repair costs.
2. Request Further Evaluations
In some cases, additional inspections or quotes from plumbing professionals may be needed to determine the extent of the damage and repair costs.
3. Decide Whether to Proceed
Depending on the severity of the issue and the seller’s willingness to negotiate, you may need to decide whether the property is still worth pursuing.
When to Skip a Sewer Line Inspection
While sewer inspections are often a good idea, there are situations where they might not be necessary:
• The home is newly built, and the developer provides warranties for plumbing systems.
• The seller provides a recent inspection report showing the sewer line is in excellent condition.
• There are no large trees near the property, and the home has modern PVC sewer pipes.
Even in these cases, skipping the inspection is a calculated risk. Ensure you’re comfortable with that decision.
The Bottom Line
Getting the main sewer line scanned with a camera before purchasing a home is a proactive step that can save you from costly repairs and unexpected headaches. While it involves an additional expense and potential delays, the benefits—peace of mind, negotiating power, and protection against future surprises—often outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re purchasing an older home, a property with mature trees nearby, or a home with a history of plumbing issues, a sewer camera inspection is a wise investment. For newer homes or properties with clear documentation of recent inspections, the need may be less urgent, but it’s still worth considering.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your comfort level, the property’s unique circumstances, and your willingness to invest in preventive measures. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make an informed choice and move forward in your home-buying journey with confidence.
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