Your home’s sewer line might not be something you think about often—but trust us, it’s working hard behind the scenes every single day. Whether you’re washing dishes, doing laundry, or flushing the toilet, everything that goes down your drains travels through that one underground pipe. So when should you get a sewer line inspection? And what signs should you be watching for? Let’s break it down in a way that’s easy to understand and super helpful, whether you’re a first-time homeowner or have lived in your house for years.
What Is a Sewer Line Inspection, and Why Does It Matter?
A sewer line inspection is when a plumbing expert checks the main pipe that carries waste away from your home. They usually do this using a special camera that snakes through your pipes and shows what’s going on inside.
Why is this so important? Because your sewer line is buried underground, problems like cracks, clogs, or root invasions can go unnoticed—until you’ve got a big, messy, and expensive issue on your hands.
A quick inspection can catch small problems early. And getting one done before something goes wrong is way better than waiting for a flood of dirty water in your basement!
Common Signs You Need a Sewer Line Inspection
Here are the most obvious signs that it’s time to check your sewer line:
1. Drains Are Slow or Always Clogged
If your sinks, bathtubs, or toilets drain slowly—or clog often—it’s not just annoying. It could mean your sewer line is blocked or damaged.
2. Smelly Odors from Your Drains or Yard
A strong, sewer-like smell around your home is never normal. That could be leaking sewage from a cracked or broken pipe.
3. Your Lawn Has Soggy or Extra-Green Patches
If parts of your yard seem unusually green or wet even when it hasn’t rained, that might be a sewage leak underground.
4. Backups in Your Toilets or Drains
Water or waste coming back up into your sinks or toilets is a major red flag. This usually means the sewer line is either blocked or broken.
5. Foundation Cracks or Shifting Floors
When a pipe leaks under your home, the soil can move or erode, causing cracks in your foundation. That’s not just a plumbing problem—it can affect your whole house.
6. Pests or Rodents Around Your Home
Sewer line damage can attract unwanted guests like rats and insects. If you’re noticing more of them, especially near the base of your home, it might be time to get your sewer line checked.
When Is the Right Time to Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection?
Some moments in homeownership are perfect opportunities to get ahead of problems. Here’s when you should seriously consider calling in a pro:
Before Buying a Home
Most home inspections don’t include a sewer scope. But they should! A sewer line repair can cost thousands, and discovering problems early can help you renegotiate or prepare.
After Heavy Storms or Natural Disasters
Earthquakes, floods, or heavy rain can shift the ground or put pressure on pipes. A quick inspection afterward helps make sure nothing’s been damaged.
If Your Home is Over 20 Years Old
Older homes often have clay or cast iron pipes, which can crack, corrode, or get invaded by tree roots. If your house is aging, it’s smart to check your lines every few years.
If You Have Big Trees in Your Yard
Tree roots love sewer lines—they’re full of water and nutrients! If you’ve got large trees near your home, their roots could be pushing into your pipes without you knowing it.
After Remodeling or Landscaping Projects
Heavy machinery and digging during renovations can accidentally damage pipes. If you’ve done work outside or near plumbing lines, follow up with an inspection just to be safe.
Why Routine Sewer Line Inspections Are Totally Worth It
Still not sure it’s worth the cost or hassle? Here’s why it is:
- You Catch Problems Early: Small clogs or cracks are much cheaper to fix than full-blown sewage backups.
- It Saves You Money: Regular inspections help avoid emergency plumbing bills that can be in the thousands.
- It Protects Your Health: Leaky sewer lines can cause mold, bad smells, and bacteria to enter your home.
- It Keeps Your Property Value High: A well-maintained home (inside and out) is more attractive to future buyers—and less likely to surprise you with hidden issues.
What to Look For in a Sewer Inspection Pro
You’ll want a licensed plumber who specializes in video inspections. Ask them:
- What type of camera equipment do you use?
- Do you provide a full report with videos and recommendations?
- Are you insured and licensed in this area?
Also, make sure they explain everything clearly and don’t push unnecessary repairs. A good sewer inspection should leave you with confidence—not confusion.
Keep Your Pipes Happy: Smart Homeowners Check Their Sewer Lines
Getting a sewer line inspection might not sound exciting, but it’s one of the smartest things you can do for your home. Whether you’re buying a new place, living in an older house, or just noticed a weird smell or clog, taking action now can save you a lot of money and stress later.
So don’t wait for an emergency. If something doesn’t seem right—or it’s just been a while—call a trusted plumbing pro and get your sewer line checked out. Your home (and your nose) will thank you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Line Inspections
What happens during a sewer line inspection, and how long does it take?
During a sewer line inspection, a licensed plumber uses a specialized waterproof camera attached to a flexible cable. This camera is inserted into a cleanout or access point in your plumbing system and snaked through your main sewer line. As it moves through the pipe, it sends live video footage to a screen so the plumber can spot issues like cracks, tree root intrusions, clogs, corrosion, or collapsed sections.
The inspection usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the length of your sewer line and whether there are any complications. Some companies provide a recorded copy of the footage and a written report, especially if you’re using the inspection for a home purchase or repair estimate.
Is a sewer line inspection really necessary if my home is newer or just a few years old?
Yes, it can still be necessary—even for newer homes. While newer properties are less likely to have age-related issues like pipe corrosion, they’re not immune to other problems. Construction debris, poorly installed pipes, shifting soil, or heavy machinery during development can all damage sewer lines.
Additionally, if your home is part of a newly developed neighborhood, local infrastructure might still be settling. An inspection gives peace of mind that your system is working properly and was installed correctly. It’s also a smart move before your home warranty runs out.
How often should I schedule a sewer line inspection if I’m not seeing any problems?
Even if everything seems fine, it’s a good idea to have a preventive sewer line inspection every 3–5 years—especially if your home is older than 20 years or has large trees nearby. Regular inspections help catch minor issues before they become expensive repairs.
If you’ve had past problems, or live in an area with shifting soil or high water tables, your plumber may recommend a more frequent schedule based on your property’s risk factors.
What kind of damage can tree roots really do to a sewer line?
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage. As roots grow, they naturally seek out moisture—and sewer pipes are full of it. If your line has even the smallest crack or loose joint, roots can find their way inside and begin to grow.
Once inside, roots can:
- Block water flow, causing backups and slow drains.
- Break or shift the pipe, especially older clay or concrete lines.
- Cause repeated clogs, which don’t go away even after cleaning.
Over time, untreated root intrusions can lead to total pipe collapse. A sewer inspection is the only way to see if roots have gotten inside your lines before they cause serious damage.
Can I perform a sewer line inspection myself, or do I need a professional?
While some homeowners are handy with DIY plumbing, a true sewer line inspection is best left to professionals. It requires:
- Specialized camera equipment that most homeowners don’t have.
- Training to interpret what’s seen on the video footage (not every blockage or crack is obvious).
- Knowledge of local plumbing codes to identify improper installations or outdated materials.
If you try to do it yourself, you may miss subtle signs of damage—or worse, damage the line further. Hiring a qualified plumber ensures the job is done safely, thoroughly, and correctly the first time.
Burlingame Sewer Line Inspection – JK Plumbing
Worried about strange smells, slow drains, or soggy spots in your yard? It might be time for a sewer line inspection, and JK Plumbing is here to help. Based in Burlingame, we specialize in reliable, non-invasive inspections that get to the root of the problem—fast. Whether you’re dealing with clogs, aging pipes, or just want peace of mind, our expert team uses top-grade camera equipment to check your entire sewer system without the guesswork.
Don’t wait for a messy backup or costly emergency. A quick sewer inspection today can save you thousands tomorrow. Homeowners across Burlingame trust us for honest service, clear communication, and long-term solutions.
Give us a call at (415) 359-4588 to schedule your inspection or visit our website to learn more. JK Plumbing is your go-to choice for sewer line inspections in Burlingame—we make your home flow better!
Read How a Sewer Line Inspection Can Save You Thousands in Repairs