When to Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection: Preventing Costly Repairs

Think of your home’s sewer line as the unsung hero of your plumbing system. Out of sight, out of mind, right? But ignoring this critical component leads to messy, expensive problems. There’s really no good way to tell it, but with sewage pipes, you don’t want to wait until disaster occurs. Damages from burst sewage pipes are several times higher than regular maintenance. Do yourself a favour: call a professional when you see the first sign of a problem.

First, let’s talk about telltale signs that your sewage pipes need an inspection. Here are a few signs that your pipes are overdue for some professional care:

• Slow Drains. Sinks, tubs, or showers drain slowly, signalling a blockage in your sewer line. This often starts as a minor inconvenience but may become a full-scale blockage.
• Frequent Backups. There may be a deeper issue if you’re experiencing recurring clogs or sewage backups. Regular plunging or drain cleaning might not address the root cause.
• Unpleasant Odours. A sewer line issue often releases a strong, foul smell. This odour might come from drains, the basement, or outside your home.
• Lush Patches in the Yard. While green grass is great, unusually lush areas may indicate a leaking sewer line. Wastewater acts as a fertilizer, leading to excessive growth in localized spots.
• Foundation Cracks or Sinkholes. Sewer line leaks can erode the soil around your home’s foundation, leading to cracks or depressions in the ground.
• Pests or Rodents
• A damaged sewer line can attract pests looking for food or shelter. Rats and insects often enter through breaks in the line.

The Age Factor: Older Homes Need Extra Attention

If your home is over 40 years old, its sewer lines might be made of clay or cast iron – materials prone to corrosion, cracks, and root intrusion. Schedule an inspection every few years to catch potential issues before they escalate. Think of it like a check-up for your plumbing system!

Tree Trouble: Roots on a Rampage

Trees love the moisture and nutrients found in sewer lines. If you have large trees near your property, their roots invade your sewer line, causing blockages and damage. Regular inspections identify and address root intrusion before it wreaks havoc.

Before You Buy: A Must for Homebuyers

Purchasing a new home? Always include a sewer line inspection in your due diligence. This reveals any hidden problems and helps you avoid inheriting a plumbing nightmare. It also provides valuable bargaining power during the negotiation process.

Post-construction or Renovation

Construction or landscaping projects near your property disrupt the soil around your sewer line, potentially causing shifts or damage. Schedule an inspection after such projects to ensure everything is still flowing smoothly.

Peace of Mind: Preventative Maintenance

Even without obvious signs of trouble, periodic sewer line inspections offer peace of mind. Think of it as preventative medicine for your plumbing. Catching small issues early prevents them from becoming major (and costly) repairs down the line.

What Happens During a Sewer Line Inspection?

Plumbers use a specialized camera to visually inspect the interior of your sewer line. This camera snakes through the pipes, transmitting real-time footage to a monitor. This allows the plumber to identify cracks, blockages, root intrusion, or other issues.

By understanding when to schedule a sewer line inspection, you protect your home from costly repairs and ensure the smooth, efficient operation of your plumbing system. Don’t wait for disaster to strike – be proactive and keep things flowing!