Sewer Scope

A home’s sewer line is one of the most overlooked—and expensive—parts of the property. Problems underground usually go unnoticed until they turn into major issues like sewage backups, slow drains, or costly repairs. A Sewer Scope Inspection helps you catch problems early and understand the true condition of the home’s main sewer line before they become emergencies.

At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we use advanced, high-resolution sewer cameras to inspect your sewer line from the house to the city connection. Whether you are buying a home, selling one, or maintaining your current property, our sewer scope service offers peace of mind and protects you from unexpected expenses..

What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A Sewer Scope Inspection involves feeding a waterproof, high-definition camera into the home’s main sewer line through a cleanout or plumbing access point. This camera travels through the pipe to identify issues such as:

• Cracks or breaks
  
  
• Tree root intrusion
  
  
• Blockages and debris
  
  
• Pipe corrosion
  
  
• Offset joints
  
  
• Sagging or “belly” sections
  
  
• Standing water
  
  
• Collapses or structural failure
  
  

The inspection provides a clear look at areas that are normally hidden underground. You’ll receive a recorded video and a summary of findings so you can make informed decisions.

Why Sewer Scope Inspections Are Important

Many homeowners don’t realize their sewer line has problems until it’s too late. Sewer line repairs can cost thousands of dollars and often involve digging up yards, driveways, or landscaping. A Sewer Scope Inspection can prevent these surprises.

A Sewer Scope Helps You:

• Avoid expensive repairs
  
  
• Identify hidden structural issues
  
  
• Make informed decisions when buying a home
  
  
• Prepare for negotiation during real estate transactions
  
  
• Understand the type and condition of pipes (PVC, cast iron, clay, concrete, etc.)
  
  
• Prevent future backups and plumbing problems
  
  

In older areas of Northwest & Central Oregon, many homes have aging sewer systems that may be at risk for deterioration or tree root damage. A sewer scope is often one of the smartest inspections you can invest in.

Our Sewer Scope Inspection Process

At Oregon NW Home Inspection, we make the sewer inspection process simple, efficient, and informative. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Locating the Sewer Access Point

We identify the best access point—usually a cleanout, crawlspace entry, or roof vent—depending on the home’s layout.

2. Camera Insertion

We feed a high-definition sewer camera into the line. This camera provides a clear view inside the pipe, capturing every detail from the beginning of the line to the city connection.

3. Real-Time Evaluation

As the camera moves through the line, we look for:



• Broken or collapsed sections
  
  
• Root intrusion
  
  
• Corrosion (common in cast iron pipes)
  
  
• Blockages and buildup
  
  
• Leaks or gaps
  
  
• Misaligned pipe joints
  
  
• Bellied or sagging areas where water collects
  
  
• Invasive tree roots
  
  
• Foreign objects

4. Video Recording & Documentation

We record the entire inspection so you have visual proof of the sewer line’s condition. This is extremely helpful in real estate negotiations.

5. Clear, Written Report

After the inspection, you receive a detailed report summarizing:

• Main findings
  
  
• Areas of concern
  
  
• Location of issues
  
  
• Recommendations for repairs or further evaluation
  
  

You can use this information to negotiate repairs, plan maintenance, or simply understand the system better.

Common Issues Found During Sewer Scope Inspections

Northwest & Central Oregon homes—especially older ones—often show sewer issues due to age, soil movement, and tree growth. The most common problems include:

Tree Root Intrusion

Roots seek moisture and often enter sewer pipes through small cracks or joints.

Pipe Corrosion

Older cast iron or metal pipes corrode over time, leading to leaks or collapse.

Blockages

Grease, debris, wipes, and foreign objects cause clogs and backups.

Offset Joints

Soil movement or aging can cause pipe sections to shift out of alignment.

Pipe Bellies

Sections of pipe settle and create dips where water and waste collect.

Cracked or Broken Pipes

Heavy soil pressure, construction, or tree roots can cause breakage.

A sewer scope inspection is the only reliable way to identify these hidden issues.

Do I Need a Sewer Scope When Buying a Home?

Absolutely. A sewer line may look fine from the outside, but problems underground can cost a lot to fix.

You should get a sewer scope if:



• The home is older than 20 years
  
  
• Large trees are on or near the property
  
  
• The neighborhood is known for clay or cast-iron pipes
  
  
• You’ve noticed slow drains or gurgling
  
  
• The home has had plumbing repairs in the past
  
  
• You want a complete understanding of the home’s condition
  
  

Buyers often use sewer scope results to negotiate repairs or price adjustments.

Why Choose Oregon NW Home Inspection for Sewer Scope Services?

Choosing the right team matters. At Oregon NW Home Inspection, our focus is accuracy, honesty, and protecting your investment.

What Makes Us Different:

• High-resolution sewer camera technology
  
  
• Experienced, certified home inspectors
  
  
• Clear, simple reporting
  
  
• Fast scheduling
  
  
• Trusted by real estate agents and homeowners across NW Oregon
  
  
• No fear tactics—just facts and transparent information
  
  

We are committed to helping you understand the full condition of the home’s sewer system.

Frequently Asked Questions