Why Sewer Line Inspections Matter
Imagine buying your dream home, moving in, and then—bam!—you’re hit with a surprise plumbing disaster. Water backing up into your tub, foul smells in the basement, or soggy patches in your yard. Turns out, the sewer line is cracked, clogged, or worse—completely collapsed. And guess what? Fixing it could cost you thousands of dollars.
That’s where a sewer line inspection comes in. This simple checkup can spot hidden problems before they turn into wallet-draining repairs. Whether you’re buying a home or just want to keep yours running smoothly, a sewer inspection is a smart move. It’s like a health check for your home’s plumbing system—and it could save you serious cash.
What Is a Sewer Line Inspection?
A sewer line inspection is exactly what it sounds like: a look inside your home’s main sewer pipe to make sure everything is flowing the way it should. Plumbers use a small waterproof camera that snakes through your pipes, usually starting from an access point like a cleanout or toilet. The camera sends live video to a screen, showing what’s really happening underground.
It’s quick (usually under an hour), non-invasive, and much cheaper than dealing with a busted pipe. Homeowners often get these inspections when buying or selling a home, or when they notice issues like slow drains or backups. Many professionals recommend scheduling one every couple of years—even if nothing seems wrong.
Common Problems Found During Sewer Inspections
You might think your pipes are fine, but here’s what can actually be hiding underground:
- Tree Root Intrusion: Roots love the moisture in pipes. They sneak in through tiny cracks and grow, causing blockages or breaks.
- Cracked or Collapsed Pipes: Older homes often have clay or cast iron pipes that can shift, crack, or completely collapse over time.
- Corrosion and Deterioration: Metal pipes can rust and wear out, especially after decades of use.
- Bellied Pipes: These are low spots in the line where waste and water collect, causing slow drainage and backups.
- Grease and Debris Buildup: Over time, kitchen grease, soap, and other gunk can coat the inside of the pipe, narrowing the space for water to flow.
These issues often start small and unnoticed. But left alone, they grow into costly messes.
The Real Costs of Ignoring Sewer Problems
Skipping a sewer line inspection might save you a couple hundred bucks now, but it could cost you thousands later. Here’s how:
- Sewer Repairs: Fixing a broken pipe can run anywhere from $3,000 to over $10,000, depending on how deep or long the damage is.
- Excavation Costs: If your yard needs to be dug up to reach the pipe, expect to pay for landscaping and sidewalk repairs too.
- Sewer Line Replacement: Full replacement of a damaged line can be the most expensive fix, especially without early detection.
- Home Damage: Backups and leaks can ruin flooring, drywall, and even your home’s foundation.
Think of it this way: a small inspection fee today could keep your savings account from draining tomorrow.
How a Sewer Inspection Saves You Thousands
Here’s where the good news kicks in. A sewer line inspection is like having a crystal ball for your plumbing system. It gives you a heads-up before something breaks.
Here’s how it helps:
- Prevents Emergencies: Catching issues early means you avoid emergency calls, weekend plumber fees, and flood damage.
- Reduces Repair Costs: Small fixes (like removing roots or patching a crack) are way cheaper than major repairs.
- Helps with Budgeting: If problems are spotted, you can plan repairs and avoid financial surprises.
- Saves You From Buying a Problem House: If you’re buying a home, an inspection could reveal hidden issues, giving you the power to negotiate or walk away.
- Keeps Your Home Running Smoothly: A healthy sewer line means fewer plumbing problems in the future.
In short: a simple camera check can be a money-saving superhero.
When Should You Get a Sewer Line Inspection?
Not sure when to schedule one? Here are the best times:
- Before Buying a Home: Especially homes built before the 1980s, which may have fragile or outdated pipes.
- If You Notice Problems: Signs like slow drains, foul odors, or gurgling sounds can point to sewer trouble.
- After Landscaping or Tree Work: Tree roots may have damaged your pipes.
- As Routine Maintenance: Get one every 1–2 years to stay ahead of issues.
Remember: just because things seem fine doesn’t mean there’s no problem brewing underground.
Homebuyer Alert: Why Sewer Inspections Are Essential Before Closing
Buying a home is exciting—but it’s also a big financial commitment. One hidden issue that many buyers miss? The sewer line. While most home inspections cover things like the roof, foundation, and HVAC, they don’t usually check the sewer line. That’s a separate inspection—and it’s worth every penny.
Here’s why:
- Leverage During Negotiations: If a sewer inspection finds damage, you can ask the seller to fix it or give you a credit toward repairs.
- Avoid Post-Purchase Shock: Some buyers move in only to discover major plumbing issues within weeks. A quick inspection could’ve warned them.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing your sewer system is in good shape means one less thing to worry about.
People on forums like Reddit and Quora often share regret stories about skipping the sewer scope. Don’t be that buyer. Whether the home is old or new, a sewer inspection is a smart move.
Sewer Inspection vs. Home Inspection: What’s the Difference?
It’s a common mistake to assume a home inspection covers everything. But most inspectors don’t have the equipment—or training—to check the main sewer line.
Here’s how they differ:
- Home Inspection: A general overview of the home’s structure, electrical, roof, HVAC, and visible plumbing.
- Sewer Line Inspection: A specialized inspection using a camera to examine underground pipes for damage, blockages, and root intrusion.
If your home inspector doesn’t offer this service, ask for a referral. Many plumbing companies can do it quickly and affordably.
Trenchless Technology: A Modern Advantage
In the past, fixing a sewer line meant tearing up your lawn, driveway, or even part of your home. Today, trenchless repair offers a much easier option—but only if the problem is found early.
Here’s how trenchless solutions help:
- Minimal Disruption: No digging up your yard or sidewalk.
- Lower Costs: Less labor and faster repair time mean you save money.
- Faster Results: Most trenchless jobs are done in a day.
Options like pipe lining or pipe bursting can fix issues without the mess. But these solutions only work if the damage is caught early enough—another reason to get that inspection.
Protect Your Home (and Wallet) the Smart Way
Your sewer line is one of those things you don’t think about—until it becomes a major (and expensive) headache. But you don’t have to wait for a disaster. A simple sewer line inspection can reveal problems before they explode into costly repairs.
Think of it as preventative care for your home. You wouldn’t skip a doctor’s check-up—so don’t skip one for your pipes either.
Whether you’re buying a house or living in your forever home, scheduling a sewer inspection today could save you thousands tomorrow. It’s one of the smartest, easiest ways to protect your home, your savings, and your peace of mind.
Burlingame Sewer Line Inspection – JK Plumbing
Worried about hidden plumbing problems in your home? At JK Plumbing, we specialize in sewer line inspections in Burlingame and surrounding areas. Our experienced team uses high-resolution sewer cameras to detect clogs, cracks, root intrusion, and early signs of damage—before they become expensive repairs. Whether you’re a homeowner or buying a new property, a quick inspection from us can save you thousands down the road. No guesswork, no digging—just clear answers from local experts you can trust.
Don’t wait for a messy backup or costly emergency. Call JK Plumbing today at (415) 359-4588 to schedule your Burlingame sewer line inspection. We’re fast, friendly, and ready to help protect your home from surprise plumbing issues. Give us a call or visit our website now—because peace of mind is just one inspection away!
FAQs About Sewer Line Inspections
How much does a sewer inspection cost?
The cost of a sewer line inspection typically ranges between $200 to $500, depending on your location, accessibility of your pipes, and the plumber or company you hire. In some cities with high service demand or where older infrastructure is common, prices may be slightly higher. While the price may seem steep for a quick check, it’s actually a smart investment. Catching even a small issue early—like a hairline crack, grease buildup, or minor tree root intrusion—can help you avoid a full-blown plumbing emergency that could cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000. Compared to that, a few hundred dollars for peace of mind is a bargain.
Can I skip a sewer inspection on a new home?
It might feel unnecessary to inspect the sewer line of a brand-new home, but skipping it can be a risky move. Even in new construction, problems can occur. Sometimes debris from the building process—like leftover concrete, tools, or other materials—can end up in the sewer lines. Poor installation, improper slope, or cheap materials can also lead to clogs or slow drainage. A new home doesn’t always guarantee flawless plumbing. A sewer line inspection will confirm everything was done properly and that the line is clear and flowing. Spending a little now could save you from major plumbing headaches right after move-in.
How long does a sewer inspection take?
Most sewer inspections are relatively quick, typically taking 30 minutes to an hour. However, the exact time can vary depending on the length of your sewer line, the location of the access point, and whether any blockages or difficult pipe sections slow things down. The plumber will insert a high-resolution camera into the pipe through an access point—like a cleanout or pulled toilet—and guide it along the sewer line. While watching the live footage on a screen, they’ll check for cracks, blockages, root intrusion, corrosion, or other issues. It’s a fast, efficient way to get a clear picture of your sewer system’s health.
Who pays for sewer repairs in a home purchase?
In most real estate transactions, who pays for sewer repairs depends on timing and negotiation. If a sewer line issue is discovered before closing, the buyer can usually request that the seller pay for the repairs or reduce the home’s sale price to reflect the needed work. This is why getting a sewer inspection before you finalize the purchase is crucial. If a problem is discovered after closing, the responsibility usually falls on the new homeowner. That’s why a sewer inspection should never be skipped—especially when buying older homes. Knowing about a problem ahead of time gives you bargaining power and financial protection.
Are sewer inspections messy or disruptive?
Not at all! In fact, a sewer line inspection is one of the cleanest and least disruptive plumbing services available. There’s no digging, no cutting into walls, and no need to tear up your floors or landscaping. A small waterproof camera is inserted into the sewer line—usually through a cleanout, toilet, or basement access—and sends video footage back to a screen. The entire process happens above ground, and nothing in your home or yard needs to be disturbed. It’s quiet, quick, and non-invasive. You’ll get valuable information about your sewer system’s condition without any of the mess or hassle you’d expect from a plumbing job.
Read Is a Sewer Line Inspection Worth It? What Homeowners Need to Know Before It’s Too Late