FAQs

A home inspection cannot determine the true condition of the main sewer pipe. With a sewer line evaluation, we can discover any type of problems that exist inside the pipes themselves.

When we conduct a sewer line evaluation, only the main sewer line is inspected. The sewer camera runs from the clean-out to a maximum of 130 feet or until it encounters a blockage, the city’s sewer connection, or the septic tank. All other drain lines, such as secondary drain lines, interior drain lines, and septic tanks, are not a part of this specific evaluation.

The clean-out is typically found either installed inside the home in the basement or crawl space, in the garage, or somewhere in the yard. Our inspection team will find the clean-out, remove the cap, and insert the camera.

If there is no clean-out, if the clean-out is inaccessible, or if the clean-out has been removed, we will not be able to perform a sewer line evaluation. Once any necessary repairs are made to allow our camera to enter the sewer line, our team will return to complete the sewer inspection.

Our sewer line inspector will insert a camera into the clean-out of the main sewer pipe. The approximate location of any problem within the pipe will be reported in the sewer line evaluation report. This report will be available within 24 hours of the evaluation and will include any photos taken during the inspection as well.

Although you are purchasing a new home, we highly recommend a sewer line evaluation. The condition of the main sewer pipe is a complete unknown, even for newer homes in the Charleston area. There could be issues related to tree root intrusions, problems with improper installation, or breakages, clogs, or sags within the sewer pipe, regardless of the age of the home.

At Charleston Home Inspection, we highly recommend sewer line inspections for older homes, as there could be several unknown issues within the main sewer pipe. Many older homes have cast-iron pipes. These pipes typically have an average life expectancy of 40-60 years.

If there is an issue inside the sewer pipe, the camera may not be able to pass through the sewer line. At that time, we will halt the evaluation and recommend further inspection by a plumbing contractor.

No damage will be caused to your sewer line, as we will only be running a small camera down the pipe. The clean-out cap will be removed for this service but will be promptly replaced and left in its original condition once the inspection is completed.

If and when any problems are found within the sewer line, we will document them in our detailed sewer inspection report. This report will include photos as well as detailed notes. We will also make note of how far, in approximate footage from the clean-out, the problem can be found. The inspector will then recommend further evaluation and repair by a plumbing contractor.