Sewer Line Inspection: How Often and What to Expect

When it comes to plumbing problems, few things unsettle homeowners more than the idea of a hidden sewer issue. You can’t see the pipes. You can’t hear most leaks. But when trouble bubbles up—backups, odors, or soggy patches in the yard—panic sets in fast.

At Alexanders Plumbing, we know how stressful it feels. Sewer line worries don’t wait for a convenient time. That’s why understanding sewer line inspection—how often, why, and what to expect—matters for every homeowner, especially if your house is older or you’re thinking of buying or selling.

Why Inspect Sewer Lines 💧

Imagine your sewer line as a long, underground tunnel. Over the years, roots snake in through tiny cracks. Old clay or cast iron pipes corrode. Grease, wipes, and debris build up like cholesterol in arteries. Eventually, everything slows—or stops.

A sewer line inspection is like an annual physical for your home’s plumbing. It helps spot:

• Tree root invasion: Roots hunt for moisture and can squeeze through the smallest openings.
• Aging pipes: Homes built before the 1980s often have materials that deteriorate or collapse with time.
• Blockages: Grease, debris, or even toys can jam up the flow.
• Shifting soil: Ground movement can break or offset pipes, causing leaks and backups.

Ignoring these problems is a gamble. A minor blockage can turn into a full-blown emergency, complete with overflowing toilets and costly repairs. Regular inspections help you act before things get messy.

Especially Critical for Older Homes

If your house is older than 40 years, sewer line inspections aren’t optional—they’re essential. Many older neighborhoods use clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes, known for their tendency to crack, corrode, or collapse.

Before You Buy or Sell

Real estate deals are stressful enough. A hidden sewer problem can derail a sale or leave new owners with a massive repair bill. National Association of Home Inspectors recommends video sewer line inspections before every real estate transaction.

Signs You Need an Inspection 🕵️‍♂️

Not sure if it’s time for a checkup? Watch for these warning signs:

• Slow drains: If every sink, shower, and toilet starts draining sluggishly, the problem may run deep.
• Gurgling sounds: Odd noises from your drains and toilets mean air is trapped—often from an obstruction.
• Backups: Sewage in your tub, shower, or basement? Time to act—fast.
• Foul odors: Persistent sewer smells inside or outside the home signal leaks or blockages.
• Lush, soggy patches in the yard: A leaking sewer line can fertilize your lawn in all the wrong ways.

If you’ve just bought an older home or notice these signs, don’t wait. Emergency plumbing services are often called for problems that could have been caught early with a routine inspection.

The Inspection Process: What Really Happens

Curious what happens when you schedule a sewer line inspection? Here’s how Alexanders Plumbing handles it, step by step.

1. Initial Assessment

We’ll ask a few questions: How old is your home? Any history of backups or repairs? What symptoms have you noticed—water pressure issues near you, gurgling, or soggy spots?

2. Access and Setup

We locate the cleanout (an access point to your main sewer line), usually in the basement, crawl space, or yard. Sometimes, we’ll need to remove a toilet or access a main stack.

3. Video Camera Inspection

This is the heart of the process. We use a waterproof, high-definition camera attached to a flexible cable. Think of it like a tiny submarine exploring the tunnels beneath your house.

• The camera snakes through the pipes, sending live video to a monitor.
• We check for roots, cracks, bellies (sags where water collects), and obstructions.
• The whole process is recorded; you can watch in real time if you’re curious.

4. Pinpointing Trouble

If we spot a problem, we use the camera’s locator tool to mark the exact spot, so repairs are targeted and efficient. No unnecessary digging.

5. Summary and Next Steps

You’ll get a clear explanation—no jargon, no scare tactics. Just what’s going on and what (if anything) needs fixing.

How Long Does It Take?

Most sewer line inspections take between 60–90 minutes. Complicated cases—like multiple blockages or inaccessible cleanouts—may run longer.

Interpreting Results: What Do They Mean?

Seeing the inside of your pipes can be unsettling. But not every crack or root is a crisis.

Common Findings

• Minor root intrusion: Roots can often be cut away without digging.
• Grease buildup: A thorough drain cleaning usually solves this.
• Small cracks or offset joints: Depending on severity, repairs range from lining to partial replacement.
• Major damage: Collapsed pipes or severe blockages may require excavation and replacement.

We’ll explain each finding and discuss your options, including code-compliant repairs (referencing the International Plumbing Code and local safety guidelines).

Should You Worry?

Not always. Small problems can be managed with regular maintenance. Major issues? We’ll help you plan repairs before they become emergencies.

How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Here’s a practical guide:

• Older homes (40+ years): Every 1–2 years, or before selling/buying.
• Homes with lots of trees: Every 2 years, as roots grow relentlessly.
• After major plumbing problems: Schedule an inspection after any backup, significant leak repair, or repiping.
• Routine maintenance: Every 3–5 years for peace of mind, even in newer homes.

If you’ve never had an inspection and your house is pushing 30–40 years, don’t wait for an emergency.

Sewer Line Inspections: Practical Tips from the Field

• Don’t flush wipes, grease, or “flushable” products. They cause more blockages than you’d think.
• Mark your cleanout location. It saves time (and money) when plumbers arrive.
• Keep trees and shrubs away from sewer lines. Roots find even the tiniest leaks.
• Consider a backflow prevention device. Especially in areas prone to flooding or heavy rains.

For more, check resources from the Environmental Protection Agency and local building authorities.

Sewer Line Issues and Emergency Plumbing

Sometimes, inspections turn up urgent problems—a collapsed pipe, active leak, or severe backup. That’s when emergency plumbing services are essential. Quick action can prevent thousands of dollars in property damage and protect your family’s health.

If you notice raw sewage in your home, persistent backups, or sudden drops in water pressure issues near you, call for help right away.

FAQ

How do I know if my sewer line needs replacing?

If your inspection shows multiple cracks, severe corrosion, or a collapsed line, replacement is usually the safest long-term fix. Spot repairs might work for isolated issues.

Can I inspect my own sewer line?

DIY drain snakes can help with minor clogs, but a true inspection needs a professional camera system and a trained eye. It’s like trying to read an X-ray with no medical training.

Is a sewer line inspection messy?

Not at all. The process is non-invasive and doesn’t require digging—unless a repair is needed.

Will my homeowner’s insurance cover repairs?

Policies vary. Most insurance covers sudden, accidental damage but not wear and tear. Check your policy and ask about sewer line coverage.

Local and Seasonal Considerations 🌦

• Heavy rains: Increase the risk of backups and leaks, especially in older neighborhoods.
• Tree season: Spring and early summer see aggressive root growth.
• Freezing weather: Pipes are more vulnerable to cracks, leaks, and shifts.

Regular inspections help you get ahead of seasonal risks, keeping your home protected year-round.

Ready to schedule your sewer line inspection or have questions about emergency plumbing?

Call Alexanders Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  877-837-7096 .