Sewer Lateral / Drain Scope Inspection Page

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Protect Yourself from Hidden Sewer Line Problems

A sewer lateral inspection—also known as a drain scope inspection—uses a specialized camera to evaluate the underground drain line connecting the home to the municipal sewer or septic system.

Because this piping is buried and not visible during a standard home inspection, serious defects can go undetected without this additional service.

What Is a Sewer Lateral Inspection?

This inspection involves inserting a high-resolution camera into the home’s drain system through an accessible cleanout or drain line. The camera travels through the sewer lateral, allowing us to visually identify defects, obstructions, or deterioration within the pipe.

This service provides valuable insight into one of the most overlooked—and potentially expensive—components of a property.

What We Inspect

Interior drain line access points (where accessible)
Sewer lateral piping condition
Signs of root intrusion
Pipe separations or offsets
Cracks, corrosion, or deterioration
Blockages or buildup
Low spots (bellies) that may restrict flow

Why a Sewer Scope Inspection Matters

Sewer line issues are often not visible during a standard inspection, yet repairs can be costly and disruptive.

Common problems include:

Tree root intrusion
Collapsed or damaged piping
Aging or deteriorated materials
Improper slope or settling

Undetected issues can lead to backups, slow drainage, or complete system failure—often requiring excavation and repair.

When Should You Get a Sewer Lateral Inspection?

When purchasing a home
For older homes (especially 20+ years)
If large trees are present near the home
When experiencing slow drains or recurring clogs
Prior to the end of a home warranty period

How the Inspection Works

A camera is inserted into the drain system and advanced through the sewer lateral line. The process typically takes a short amount of time and provides a real-time view of the pipe’s condition.

Findings are documented and included as part of your inspection report.

Important Limitations

This inspection is limited to visually accessible portions of the drain system. Access to the sewer lateral depends on the presence of an accessible cleanout or suitable entry point.

This service does not include dismantling plumbing systems or excavation.

Related Services

Schedule Your Sewer Lateral Inspection

Adding a sewer scope inspection to your home inspection can help identify hidden issues before they become costly repairs.