Why Every Home Buyer in Indianapolis Should Get a Sewer Inspection
Standard home inspections don't include the sewer line. Here's why a pre-purchase sewer camera inspection is one of the most important steps in buying a home.
What a Standard Home Inspection Misses
A standard home inspection covers the visible and accessible components of a home — roof, foundation, electrical, HVAC, plumbing fixtures. But it does not include a camera inspection of the underground sewer line. This means a home can pass a standard inspection with a sewer line that is cracked, root-invaded, or on the verge of failure.
The Cost of Discovering a Sewer Problem After Closing
Sewer line repairs and replacements typically cost between $3,000 and $25,000 depending on the severity and scope of the problem. Discovering this problem after you've already closed on a home means it's your responsibility — and your expense. A pre-purchase inspection that costs a few hundred dollars can reveal a problem that saves you tens of thousands.
What a Sewer Camera Inspection Reveals
A camera inspection shows the interior condition of the sewer line from the house to the city main. It can identify root intrusion, cracks, pipe misalignment, bellying (low spots where waste collects), grease buildup, and the material the pipe is made of. Older homes in Indianapolis often have clay or cast iron pipes that are more prone to problems.
How to Use the Inspection in Negotiations
If a sewer inspection reveals a problem, you have several options: ask the seller to repair it before closing, negotiate a price reduction to cover the repair cost, or walk away from the deal. Having a documented inspection with video footage gives you leverage in negotiations that you simply wouldn't have otherwise.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our team is available for same-day inspections in Indianapolis and surrounding suburbs.