A sewer camera inspection before buying a home is essential because it reveals hidden problems in the sewer line such as tree roots, cracks, or blockages that could cost thousands to repair if left unnoticed. Unlike a regular home inspection, this process uses a small camera to look inside the pipes, giving you a clear picture of the property’s plumbing health. With this knowledge, you can negotiate repairs, avoid expensive surprises, and buy your home with confidence.

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

A sewer camera inspection uses a small, high-resolution camera attached to a flexible cable that’s inserted into the sewer line. The camera sends live video to a monitor so both the technician and homeowner can see exactly what’s going on inside the pipes.

This inspection can reveal:

• Tree root intrusion that clogs or cracks pipes

• Collapsed or deteriorating pipes from old materials like clay or cast iron

• Blockages from grease, wipes, or other debris

• Bellied or misaligned pipes where water collects and damages the line

Unlike a standard home inspection—which only checks visible plumbing—this process uncovers hidden problems that could cost you thousands if ignored.

Why Skipping a Sewer Inspection Is Risky

Buying a home without checking the sewer line is like purchasing a car without looking under the hood. Skipping this inspection can lead to serious consequences, including sewage backups that make bathrooms unusable, foundation damage caused by leaking pipes, and emergency repairs that often range from $5,000 to $20,000 or more. In severe cases, homeowners may even face the added expense and stress of moving out temporarily while major repairs are completed. In short, neglecting a sewer inspection could quickly turn your dream home into a financial nightmare.

How the Inspection Process Works

Most inspections take less than an hour. Here’s what to expect:

1. Locate the cleanout entry point in the yard or basement.

2. Insert the camera through the sewer line.

3. Watch the live feed as the camera moves through the pipe.

4. Identify problem spots like roots, blockages, or cracks.

5. Receive a detailed report and sometimes a recording of the inspection.

This process gives you a clear picture of the home’s plumbing health and the confidence to move forward—or renegotiate.

Warning Signs of Hidden Sewer Trouble

Even before a professional inspection, there are warning signs that a home’s sewer line may already be in trouble. Toilets that clog frequently, sinks or tubs

 that drain slowly, and foul odors around drains or outside in the yard are common red flags. You might also notice gurgling sounds coming from the pipes, or unusual patches of grass that appear greener or soggier than the rest of the lawn due to underground leaks. If you come across any of these signs during a home tour, scheduling a sewer camera inspection isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential to protect yourself from costly repairs.

Costs and Savings of a Sewer Camera Inspection

Many homebuyers ask: “How much does a sewer line inspection cost?”

• Typical inspection cost: $200–$500

• Typical sewer repair/replacement: $5,000–$20,000+

Clearly, the inspection pays for itself. If problems are found, you can ask the seller to fix them or lower the price. If the sewer line is fine, you gain peace of mind.

Health and Environmental Concerns

A broken sewer line doesn’t just put your home at risk—it can also create serious health and environmental problems. Leaks can expose your household to harmful bacteria and mold, while sewage often attracts pests like rodents and insects. On top of that, waste seeping into the soil can contaminate groundwater and nearby waterways, causing long-term environmental damage. A simple sewer camera inspection is one of the best ways to spot these issues early and prevent the hazards that come with a failing sewer system.

How Often Should You Inspect Sewer Lines?

• New homes with no issues: Every 3–5 years

• Older homes: Every 1–2 years

• Homes with past problems: Annually

Routine inspections protect your plumbing system and keep small problems from becoming major repairs.

Conclusion: Peace of Mind Before You Buy

When buying a home, you don’t want hidden problems waiting to drain your finances. A sewer camera inspection before buying a house gives you clarity, bargaining power, and protection against expensive repairs. It’s a small investment that delivers big benefits—saving money, avoiding health risks, and ensuring your new home is truly move-in ready.