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See What’s Underground: Checking Pipes for Roots & Clogs

Find sewer line issues that aren't visible during a standard home inspection.

 

In older neighbourhoods, tree roots love sneaking into sewer pipes. You can’t see it from the yard, but our camera can. Let’s make sure you aren't inheriting a plumbing disaster. Bundle with a home inspection when scheduling permits.

Home Inspector Jonathan Gogan conducting a Sewer Scope inspection with client

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What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection uses a small camera on a flexible cable. I feed it into your drain line through an interior cleanout. The camera travels through the pipe and sends a live video feed to a monitor. This lets me see the inside of the pipe in real time.

The drain line runs from your home to the street connection or septic tank. It is buried underground, so there is no other way to see its condition. The camera shows cracks, root intrusion, bellies, offsets, and blockages. I record the full video so you have a permanent record of what I found.

Common Conditions Observed

Image of 4 common issue found when doing a sewer scope.
  • Root intrusion

  • Separated/offset joints

  • Standing water (“bellies”) / poor slope

  • Cracks, breaks, or collapsed sections

  • Blockages, debris, heavy buildup

  • Corrosion/deterioration

  • Evidence of prior repairs or patchwork

Who Should Consider a Sewer Scope Inspection?

Buyers

  • Helped reduce surprise sewer repairs after possession

  • Supported negotiations when significant defects were documented

  • Improved decision-making on a critical hidden system

Sellers

  • dentified concerns before listing so you could address or disclose

  • Reduced surprises during a buyer’s inspection

  • Supported transparency and buyer confidence with clear reporting

Home Owners

  • Useful baseline check on older homes

  • Helped explain recurring slow drains or clogs

  • Supported maintenance planning and budgeting

Summary included in your report

Photo/video documentation where available/possible

Reported Notes on visible defects and observed conditions

Camera inspection of accessible portions of the drain line

What's Included in a Sewer Scope?

When Should I Get a Sewer Scope

At the same time as your home inspection (recommended)

As a stand-alone service for an existing home

Before or after major landscaping, renovation, or foundation work

Many clients choose to bundle a sewer scope with their home inspection so that both the visible and hidden systems are evaluated in one visit.

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