When Should Home Buyers Get a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Home buyers should get a sewer camera inspection before finalizing the purchase, ideally during the home inspection contingency period. This ensures any hidden issues such as cracks, blockages, or root intrusions are identified early, giving buyers the chance to negotiate repairs or avoid costly surprises. While standard home inspections don’t include sewer lines, a quick camera check can reveal problems that could cost thousands if ignored.

Why Sewer Camera Inspections Matter for Home Buyers

A home purchase is one of the biggest financial commitments you’ll ever make. Most buyers schedule a home inspection, but what many don’t realize is that standard inspections rarely include sewer lines. The hidden plumbing beneath your property can cost thousands of dollars in repairs if problems go unnoticed.

A sewer camera inspection gives you a clear view inside your pipes, showing potential issues such as cracks, corrosion, clogs, and root invasions. This small investment can save you from major headaches, unexpected costs, and even renegotiations with sellers.

The Limits of a Standard Home Inspection

A traditional home inspection focuses on visible systems such as the roof, foundation, electrical wiring, HVAC, and basic plumbing. However, most inspectors lack the specialized equipment needed to evaluate underground sewer lines. This means you could unknowingly purchase a home with collapsed or cracked sewer pipes, outdated cesspools, tree root blockages, or corroded cast-iron lines. Because these hidden issues can lead to costly repairs, many real estate professionals now recommend adding a sewer camera inspection to your home inspection checklist for better protection.

When to Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection

The best time to schedule a sewer inspection is before finalizing your home purchase. Ideally, it should be done during your inspection contingency period, so you still have the option to negotiate repairs or walk away if serious issues are discovered.

Situations where a sewer inspection is highly recommended:

• Homes built 20+ years ago

• Homes with large trees nearby (roots can break pipes)

• Homes with multiple bathrooms or additions

• Properties with a history of plumbing backups

Older Homes and Sewer Line Risks

If you’re considering a home built before the 1980s, sewer problems are far more likely. Many older properties were originally connected to cesspools or septic tanks before public sewer systems expanded, and even if the lines were later connected to the city system, risks remain. These can include collapsing cesspools, severe corrosion in aging pipes, tree root invasions, and drainage issues caused by improper installation.

Because repairing or replacing a sewer line can cost anywhere from $3,000 to more than $15,000, investing a few hundred dollars in a sewer camera inspection is a smart way to protect your budget and avoid unexpected headaches.

Warning Signs of Sewer Backup Before Buying

Before purchasing a home, it’s important to look for signs that may indicate sewer trouble. Slow-draining sinks, tubs, or showers often point to buildup or partial blockages. Toilets that bubble when flushed are another warning that wastewater is struggling to move through the line. Foul odors around drains can signal deeper problems inside the pipes.

If backups appear in more than one drain at the same time, it’s a strong sign that the main sewer line could be affected. Outdoors, watch for unexplained wet spots or small sinkholes in the yard, which may suggest a hidden leak underground.

Noticing these red flags early gives you the chance to request a sewer camera inspection before moving forward with the purchase. This extra step can protect you from unexpected repairs and expensive surprises after closing.

Costs: Inspection vs. Expensive Sewer Repairs

In Los Angeles, a sewer camera inspection typically costs between $150 and $500, making it a relatively small investment compared to the potential cost of major repairs. Sewer line repair or replacement can range anywhere from $3,000 to $25,000 depending on the extent of the damage. When you compare these numbers, it’s clear that spending a few hundred dollars upfront on an inspection can save you from massive repair bills and unexpected financial stress later on.

How to Find a Reliable Sewer Line Inspector in Los Angeles

Not all sewer line inspectors provide the same level of service, which is why it’s important to choose carefully. A reliable professional should be licensed and insured, have proven experience with both residential and commercial sewer systems, and use modern, high-resolution camera equipment to ensure accurate results. They should also provide clear, detailed reports along with video footage so you fully understand the condition of your sewer line. New Flow Plumbing is a trusted sewer line inspector serving Los Angeles, offering advanced equipment and highly trained technicians to help home buyers avoid costly surprises. Call 310-299-9284 or book online today to schedule your inspection.

Conclusion

A sewer camera inspection is one of the smartest moves you can make as a home buyer. It’s affordable, fast, and can prevent you from inheriting costly sewer problems. Whether you’re buying in Santa Clarita, Los Angeles, or any older neighborhood, adding this inspection to your checklist protects your investment and your peace of mind.