Clogs, slow-draining sinks, or foul odors are common signs something is wrong with your sewage system. However, you don't have to wait until you notice a problem to get an inspection. If you live in an older home or if you're about to purchase a home, a sewer inspection can save you money and hassle.

What Is a Sewer Line Inspection? 

A sewer inspection uses a small camera to go into the sewer lines and check for potential problems. Using the camera feed and a monitor, the inspector can check for a variety of issues without having to pull up flooring or dig. These issues include,

• Invasive tree root
• Collapsed areas
• Substance buildup including,
  • Grease, oil, and fats
  • Flushed items
• Cracks or breaks

Isn't a Sewer Inspection Part of a Home Inspection?

While a good home inspector will include an examination of the basic plumbing in a home you're purchasing, they don't typically have the specialized equipment needed for a full sewer inspection. They also may not have the expertise to notice problems that a professional plumber would see. So, it's a good idea to add a sewer inspection to your home-buying to-do list.

How Do I Know If I Need a Sewer Inspection? 

You don't want to pay for unnecessary services, so it's important to know when you should consider a sewer inspection for your home. You should get an inspection if,

• You have clogged drainage (sink, tub) that doesn't improve with drain cleaner
• You have foul odors emanating from your sink, tub, or clean toilet
• You notice leaks in your foundation
• You are purchasing a home (new construction or used)
• You have lived in your home for several years and never gotten an inspection(we recommend inspections every 3-5 years)

What Happens If You Find a Problem?

The next steps in the process will depend on what we find on an inspection. Sewer repairs can be expensive, however, if you get regular inspections and find problems early, you will save on repairs. Suppose you’re purchasing a new home and sewer line problems are found. In that case, you can negotiate repairs into the purchase contract, determine if you want to handle repairs later yourself, or find a different home altogether. The professional handling your inspection can tell you the severity of what they find and help you determine your options for repair. They may even be able to provide you a cost estimate so that you know how much repairs will be or if you should worry about fixing the issue now or how long it can wait if needed (remember, however, that putting needed repairs off too long can lead to serious and expensive problems down the line).

Who Should I Call for a Sewer Inspection?

Ensure you receive quality service by coming to the best. Contact Barner Murphy today to schedule your sewer inspection or repair.