Don’t Overlook Sewer Scopes When Buying a Home

September 16, 2025
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Sewers can cost you

When buying a home, most buyers expect a home inspection, but one important step often gets overlooked: the sewer scope.

Who’s Responsible? Many homeowners don’t realize that the sewer line running from the house to the city connection is their responsibility. If that line fails, the cost of repair or replacement can be significant.

When Should You Get a Sewer Scope?

It is a smart idea for any purchase, but there are a few situations where it is especially important.

Older homes often still use cast iron pipes. Over time, these rust and can eventually crack or burst.

New construction may seem worry-free, but debris like concrete, wood, or even soda cans sometimes gets pushed into sewer lines during the building process. A quick scope can save you from a messy surprise later.

Homes with large trees are also at risk. Roots are drawn to moisture and can wrap around pipes, crushing or breaking them.

Even for newer homes without trees, a sewer scope can help identify clogs, cracks, or signs of future problems.

What Does It Cost?

The peace of mind is worth it. A sewer scope typically costs between $150 and $500 depending on who you hire. Compared to the thousands of dollars in potential repairs, it is a very smart investment.

As your local Valley real estate expert, I always recommend this step. If you need trusted professionals to handle the job, I can connect you with great resources.

Buying a home? Don’t skip the sewer scope. It is a small step that can save you big money.

Cartoon man stands with hands on hips, frowning at a broken sewer pipe that is leaking brown sludge, with yellow lightning bolts highlighting the damage.

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