Sewer Pipe Concerns
Underground sewer systems ...
may be outside the scope of a Home Inspection,
but should be of great concern to Home Buyers.
Older homes likely have vitreous clay pipes underground.
This material is very hard, but brittle.
These older drain pipes were also installed in sections with poor couplings.
Thus they break and separate easily, so dirt & tree roots can infiltrate and clog them.
It is also common to find
breaks where they meet municipal system under alleys.
( no one anticipated > 10 ton garbage trucks driving on old alleys )
Repairs can cost over $ 7000 !
A Sewer Scope Inspection should be done on homes older than 1980. is usually performed by a qualified plumber
using a "snake" with a well lit camera at the end. The entire length of underground pipe is visually inspected this way,
and you are provided a video to prove its condition. Make sure the company you hire has the capability of locating the break
( they will mark the spot above ground ) The fee for this service can run from $150 - $300.