Does a home inspection include the sewer line?

Usually not. A standard home inspection checks visible plumbing, fixtures and the water heater, but it doesn't look inside the sewer line. A separate sewer camera inspection shows roots, cracks, sags or collapsed pipe underground.

Is a sewer scope worth it when buying a house?

For older homes, homes with large trees in the yard, or any home with cast iron or clay sewer pipe, it's one of the most valuable inspections you can get. A sewer line replacement is one of the most expensive plumbing repairs, and it's much better to find out before closing.

What plumbing problems should I look for in an older house?

Look for galvanized steel supply pipes, polybutylene (gray plastic) pipes, cast iron or clay sewer lines, low water pressure, water stains on ceilings or under sinks, and a water heater near the end of its life.

Buying a Home? Plumbing Checks to Make First

A home inspection is a great start, but it doesn't see inside your walls or underground. Plumbing problems found after closing are your problem. Found before closing, they're a negotiating point.

1. Get a sewer camera inspection

This is the big one. The sewer line from the house to the street is out of sight, and replacing it is one of the most expensive plumbing repairs there is. A camera inspection shows roots, cracks, bellies (sagging sections) and collapsed pipe. It's especially worth it for older homes in Greenville, Spartanburg and Greer, and any home with mature trees near the line. More about sewer camera inspections.

2. Know what the pipes are made of

Copper or PEX: generally good.
Galvanized steel (gray metal, threaded fittings): corrodes from the inside and restricts flow. Plan on repiping eventually.
Polybutylene (gray flexible plastic, common in homes built from the late 1970s to mid-1990s): known for failing. Many insurers and buyers treat it as a replacement item.
Cast iron or clay sewer lines: common in older homes; check condition with a camera.

3. Check the water heater

Find the age on the label. If it's past 10 years, budget for a replacement. See how long water heaters last.

4. Test water pressure and drains

Run the shower and flush a toilet at the same time. A big pressure drop can mean old pipes or a pressure problem.
Fill and drain every sink and tub. Slow drains in several places can point to a main line problem.
Look under every sink for water stains, soft cabinet floors or active drips.

5. Well and septic homes

In rural parts of Pickens, Easley, Travelers Rest and Anderson County, many homes are on private wells and septic systems. Get the water tested, check the pressure tank, and have the septic system inspected separately. Read more: well water vs. city water.

Buying in the Upstate and want a plumber's eyes on it before closing? call us at 864-365-8900 — we answer 24/7 to schedule a sewer camera inspection or plumbing check.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does a home inspection include the sewer line?: Usually not. A standard home inspection checks visible plumbing, fixtures and the water heater, but it doesn't look inside the sewer line. A separate sewer camera inspection shows roots, cracks, sags or collapsed pipe underground.
Is a sewer scope worth it when buying a house?: For older homes, homes with large trees in the yard, or any home with cast iron or clay sewer pipe, it's one of the most valuable inspections you can get. A sewer line replacement is one of the most expensive plumbing repairs, and it's much better to find out before closing.
What plumbing problems should I look for in an older house?: Look for galvanized steel supply pipes, polybutylene (gray plastic) pipes, cast iron or clay sewer lines, low water pressure, water stains on ceilings or under sinks, and a water heater near the end of its life.

Need help with sewer camera & drain line inspection? We serve Greer and the Upstate, 24/7.

Call 864-365-8900

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