A standard home inspection covers a lot: the roof, structure, electrical, plumbing, HVAC and more. But one of the most expensive systems in a house runs underground, out of sight, from the house to the city connection. That’s the main sewer line, and a regular home inspection can’t see inside it. A sewer scope inspection can.

What a sewer scope inspection is

A sewer scope is a camera inspection of the main sewer line. We run a waterproof camera through an access point, usually a cleanout, and record the inside of the pipe as it travels toward the street. You get to see what the pipe actually looks like instead of guessing based on how fast the sinks drain on inspection day.

What we look for

  • Tree root intrusion at joints or cracks
  • Cracked, broken or collapsed sections of pipe
  • Bellies, which are low spots where water and waste sit
  • Offset or separated joints
  • Buildup or blockages
  • Signs of older pipe materials that are near the end of their service life

Why it matters more with older homes

Many neighborhoods across Norfolk, Portsmouth, Hampton and Newport News have homes built decades ago. Older sewer lines may be clay, cast iron or other materials that crack, corrode or separate over time. Add mature trees in the yard, and roots have had years to find their way into the joints.

The tricky part is that a damaged line can work fine during a showing or an inspection. Problems often show up after move-in, once a family is running laundry, showers and the dishwasher every day.

It’s not just for old homes

Newer homes can have issues too: construction debris left in the line, a joint that shifted during backfill, or a pipe that was damaged during landscaping. If you’re buying new construction in Chesapeake, Suffolk or Virginia Beach, a sewer scope can be a smart add-on alongside a new construction inspection.

When to schedule it

The best time is during your inspection period, alongside your home inspection. That way you and your agent have the video and findings in hand while you still have room to negotiate, ask for a repair, or walk away. Sellers can also order one ahead of time as part of a pre-listing inspection so there are no surprises once a buyer is under contract.

A note for realtors

A sewer line problem found after closing is a bad call for everyone. Recommending a sewer scope on older homes, homes with big trees near the line, or homes that sat vacant protects your buyer and your reputation. Reports are delivered within 24 hours, so it won’t slow down your timeline. You can learn more about how we work with agents on our For Agents page.

Serving all of Hampton Roads

Apex Home Inspection is a veteran-owned company based in Virginia Beach. We offer sewer scope inspections across Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton and Newport News.

Want to add a sewer scope to your inspection? Learn more on our sewer scope inspection page, call (757) 354-3528 for a quote, or contact us to book.