Sewer line inspections might not be at the top of your to-do list, but they can prevent plumbing disasters. With advanced technology, such as video camera inspections, plumbers can monitor your underground sewer lines.
As with any service, plumbing inspections have pros and cons. Understanding both will help you determine if you need this service for your home.
Pros of Regular Sewer Line Inspections
For many homeowners, the pros of sewer line maintenance far outweigh the cons. Let’s explore the pros below.
Early Detection of Sewer Line Problems
One of the most significant advantages of regular sewer line inspections is the early detection of problems. Plumbers can spot cracks, blockages, and tree root invasion before they cause sewer line failure. Catching these problems early allows you to plan for repairs rather than face an emergency.
Cost Savings in the Long Run
Preventive maintenance almost always costs less than emergency repairs. A complete sewer replacement is one of the most expensive plumbing services. Regular inspections can help you avoid sewer backups and costly replacements.
Improves Your Home’s Market Value
Even if you don’t have your home on the market, regular sewer line inspections offer transparency to potential buyers should you decide to sell. This maintenance reassures buyers that the underground plumbing is sound. It also allows sellers to fix minor problems before they cause headaches when selling their home.
Environmentally Friendly
Leaks and blockages are hazardous to the environment. They can cause untreated wastewater to enter the soil or storm drains, impacting the water supply. Regular sewer line inspections reduce contamination risks by ensuring proper waste management.
Cons of Regular Sewer Line Inspections
Although most homeowners consider sewer line maintenance a must, there are a few cons. Knowing these will help you make an informed decision for your home.
Up-Front Costs of the Inspection
Although regular inspections offer potential long-term savings, they require an initial investment. Some homeowners hesitate to invest money in a service that may not reveal any immediate problems, and others may not be prepared for the expense.
Potential for Unnecessary Repairs
In some cases, the findings may include only minor cosmetic damage. Homeowners sometimes feel pressured to seek repairs when they may not yet be necessary. You need to work with a reputable plumber to avoid scams.
Not Always Guaranteed
Even with cameras, inspections cannot always detect every issue. Debris or water in the line can sometimes block the view, leading to small cracks being overlooked. If the plumber cannot view the entire pipe length, you may need a follow-up visit or further testing.
Accessibility Issues
Some properties have hard-to-reach sewer cleanouts or may require a permit for inspection access. Depending on the location and your sewer’s design, scheduling an inspection may be more involved than you realize. This is especially true for older homes or those with complex plumbing systems.
Is a Routine Inspection Worth It?
While sewer line inspections require time and money, the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, especially for older homes or properties with many trees nearby.
Routine sewer line inspections reduce risks, protect your property value, and give you peace of mind. Scheduling a sewer line inspection is a smart way to maintain your plumbing system and avoid costly future problems.
Harmon Plumbing takes great pride in serving our customers in Durham, NC, and we’ll provide you with the leak detection services you need.