3 Reasons Why You Need A Sewer Inspection

May 12, 2017

Your sewer system is something you probably never think about… until something goes wrong. However, the time to find out if a sewer is faulty or needs repair is before a leak or backup occurs, not after.

In fact, regular sewer inspections are vital for any house over 20 years old. That's because older homes are usually built on aging clay pipes that are more vulnerable to root intrusion, but even newer homes may be connected to an older sewer line. Most sewer lines last for 40 years, but that's not always the case. Inspections make sure that pipes are clear of blockages and functioning properly for years to come.

Here are three reasons why you should schedule a sewer inspection today:

1. Repairs are Expensive
   Inspections are relatively inexpensive and can be done quickly. On the other hand, sewer line replacements can be very expensive and are often not covered by your insurance because it's the result of natural wear and tear. In addition to monetary costs, sewer backups can be messy and dangerous – causing flooding and leaking toxic sewer gas. Often, an inspection can detect a problem before it causes irreparable damage. When small leaks and clogs go unfixed, replacement is often eventually required.

2. Roots Love Sewer Lines
   Tree roots are constantly seeking a good source of water and nutrients, so it's not surprising that they are attracted to sewer lines. Roots sneak into tiny openings and then expand over time, blocking flow and ultimately causing damage. If left unattended, pipes can be damaged and require excavation to repair. If you have trees or large shrubs anywhere near your sewer line, you should have regular inspections.

3. Natural Wear and Tear Happens
   Even new sewer systems can spring leaks and get blocked from time-to-time, but older systems have a much higher risk. Older homes may have been constructed prior to modern city sewer systems, relying on cesspools, clay, or tar paper. These old systems erode and collapse over time. If you're not sure of the type of sewer system your home has and the state it's in, it's a good idea to have an inspection.

How a Sewer Inspection Works

Hopefully, you had a sewer inspection when you purchased your house. If not (or if that was a long time ago), it's a good idea to schedule a professional to inspect your sewer system. Best case scenario, you gain a baseline of system health and can budget appropriately for future plumbing repairs. Worst case, you uncover something that requires repairs but you're able to prevent a larger, more expensive issue.

Spending just a little time and minimal investment can prevent costly (and messy!) future problems. Whether you are seeing signs of potential sewer line issues or just want to prevent future issues, schedule an inspection to give yourself some peace of mind.