Sewer inspections are important because any problems with the main sewer line are the financial responsibility of the owner. If there are problems with the sewer line that routine sewer cleaning won’t solve, the repairs will be expensive.
No age of a home is immune to sewer problems. While it’s unlikely, even new homes can have problems with the main building drain. As you might imagine, the potential for problems increases with the age of the home. If you’re buying a new home, you probably don’t need to spend your money on a sewer scan. If you’re buying a century-old home, it’s smart to have a sewer scan done. There is no clear dividing line between homes that should and shouldn’t have a sewer scan performed. The decision will ultimately come down to the new home buyer’s tolerance for risk.
Sewer inspections are not considered to be intrusive inspections, as the property will be left in the same condition as it was when we arrived. Every sewer scan includes a written report of our findings, as well as a digital video file of the scope. The fee for a sewer inspection is $225. Sewer inspections are scheduled through our office when the home inspection is scheduled.
Buying an older house in the Twin Cities?
Everything above comes down to one thing: the main line becomes your financial responsibility the day you take ownership, and the repairs are expensive. A sewer scan is how you find out before that happens rather than after.
Sewer inspection — $225, added through our office when your home inspection is booked. We cover Minneapolis, St. Paul and the rest of the Twin Cities metro.
Sewer Inspection FAQs
Quick answers from the Structure Tech team. Don’t see your question? Call (952) 915-6466.
What is a sewer scope inspection?
A sewer scope uses a camera to examine the accessible interior of the main sewer line.
It helps identify concerns that are hidden underground and are not visible during a standard home inspection.
Is a sewer inspection included in a home inspection?
A sewer camera inspection is a separate service from a standard home inspection.
Ask Structure Tech to add the sewer scope when booking so timing and access can be coordinated.
Should I scope the sewer at an older house?
Older houses are a strong reason to consider a scope.
The line can have concerns that normal fixture use does not reveal, and repairs may be significant.
Can newer homes have sewer problems?
Newer homes can have sewer problems, so the home’s age alone cannot rule out a defect.
The decision to scope the line depends on the property and your tolerance for uncertainty.
Will I receive the sewer inspection video?
Every Structure Tech sewer inspection includes a written findings report and a digital video file.
Use both when discussing concerns with a sewer contractor.
How do I schedule a sewer inspection?
Ask our office when booking the home inspection, or contact us about a separate appointment.
Share your inspection deadline and any known access concerns.
Can normal sink and toilet operation prove the sewer is clear?
Normal sink and toilet drainage does not prove the main sewer line is free of problems.
A camera inspection can reveal developing or intermittent concerns that fixture use does not expose.
Does a sewer scope damage the property?
Structure Tech’s sewer camera inspections are non-intrusive and use available access.
The property is left in the condition in which it was found. Share unusual access arrangements before the appointment.
Does the inspection include sewer cleaning or repairs?
A sewer scope is an inspection with a report and video, rather than a sewer cleaning or repair service.
If the findings call for cleaning or repairs, discuss that work separately with a qualified sewer contractor.
Will the report tell me what a sewer repair costs?
A sewer inspection report documents findings rather than quoting repair costs.
A qualified sewer contractor can evaluate repair options and provide pricing based on the location, access, and work needed.
Is a sewer scope the same as a septic inspection?
A sewer scope is different from a septic-system inspection.
Tell Structure Tech if the property has a private septic system so the appropriate evaluation can be discussed.
What if the camera cannot inspect the whole line?
If a blockage or another issue with the line keeps the camera from inspecting the entire sewer line, the report gives recommendations on next steps.
The findings reflect the portion of the line the camera could examine, so review those recommendations with a qualified sewer contractor.
Still have questions? We’re happy to help.
Schedule Your Inspectionor call (952) 915-6466 · Monday – Sunday, 8 am – 5 pm