
Buying a home is one of the largest investments most people will ever make. While buyers often focus on visible elements such as the roof, foundation, and interior finishes, one of the most critical systems is completely out of sight—the sewer line. A home can look perfect on the surface while hiding serious underground issues that can cost thousands to repair after closing. This is why requesting a video pipe inspection before finalizing a purchase is a smart and proactive decision.
At ACS Underground Solutions, video pipe inspections help homebuyers uncover hidden sewer problems before they become unexpected financial burdens. This guide explains why sewer camera inspections are essential during the home-buying process and how they protect your investment.
What Is a Video Pipe Inspection?
A video pipe inspection uses a specialized, high-resolution camera that is inserted into a home’s sewer line. The camera travels through the pipe, transmitting live video footage to a monitor so technicians can evaluate the interior condition of the sewer system in real time.
This inspection method allows professionals to identify cracks, blockages, root intrusions, corrosion, misaligned joints, and other problems that traditional home inspections cannot detect. The result is a clear, accurate assessment of the sewer line’s condition without excavation or guesswork.
Why Sewer Lines Are Often Overlooked in Home Inspections
Standard home inspections typically focus on visible components and accessible systems. While inspectors may run water or flush toilets to check basic drainage, they usually cannot see inside the sewer line itself. As a result, underlying sewer issues often go unnoticed.
Sewer lines can extend 50 feet or more underground, passing beneath landscaping, driveways, and even public streets. Without specialized camera equipment, it’s impossible to evaluate their true condition. This makes video pipe inspections a crucial supplement to standard home inspections—especially for older homes or properties with mature trees.
The Hidden Risks of Skipping a Video Pipe Inspection
Failing to inspect the sewer line before closing can expose homebuyers to costly and disruptive problems shortly after moving in. Many sewer issues develop slowly and show few warning signs until they reach a critical point.
Common risks include:
- Sewer backups that damage flooring, walls, and personal belongings
- Chronic clogs and slow drains throughout the home
- Foul odors caused by cracks or leaks in the sewer line
- Emergency excavation that disrupts landscaping or hardscaping
A video pipe inspection helps eliminate these surprises by identifying issues before ownership is transferred.
Common Sewer Problems Found During Homebuyer Inspections
Tree Root Intrusions
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture and can infiltrate sewer lines through small cracks or joints. Over time, roots expand inside the pipe, restricting flow and causing backups. This issue is especially common in older neighborhoods with large, established trees.
Cracked or Collapsed Pipes
Aging sewer pipes made of clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg materials are prone to cracking, shifting, or collapsing. These structural failures often remain hidden until a camera inspection reveals them.
Offset or Separated Joints
Soil movement and settling can cause pipe joints to misalign or separate, creating ledges that catch debris. These defects lead to recurring clogs and increase the risk of root intrusion.
Sewer Bellies
A sewer belly occurs when a section of pipe sinks, creating a low spot where waste and water collect. This condition can only be accurately diagnosed with a video inspection.
Severe Corrosion and Buildup
Interior pipe corrosion, grease buildup, and scale deposits reduce flow capacity and weaken pipe walls. Video inspections allow buyers to see the extent of deterioration firsthand.
How a Video Pipe Inspection Protects Your Investment
A sewer repair or replacement can cost anywhere from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on depth, location, and repair method. Discovering these issues after closing places the financial responsibility entirely on the new homeowner.
By requesting a video pipe inspection before closing, buyers gain:
- Clear knowledge of the sewer line’s condition
- Leverage to negotiate repairs or pricing with the seller
- Confidence in long-term property maintenance planning
- Protection from unexpected post-purchase expenses
In many cases, inspection findings allow buyers to request repairs, receive credits, or renegotiate the purchase price before finalizing the transaction.
Older Homes and High-Risk Properties
While any home can benefit from a sewer camera inspection, certain properties are at higher risk for sewer issues:
- Homes built more than 30 years ago
- Properties with large trees near sewer lines
- Homes with a history of drainage problems
- Properties with clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes
For these homes, a video pipe inspection is not just recommended—it’s essential.
Video Pipe Inspections and Trenchless Repair Planning
If a sewer issue is discovered, a video inspection provides the information needed to determine the best repair approach. Many sewer problems can now be addressed using trenchless repair methods, which minimize digging and property disruption.
Without accurate camera footage, it’s impossible to determine whether trenchless repair is viable or if traditional excavation is required. Video inspections ensure repairs are planned efficiently and correctly.
What to Expect During a Homebuyer Video Pipe Inspection
The inspection process is straightforward and typically takes less than an hour. A technician accesses the sewer line through a cleanout or other entry point and guides the camera through the system while recording the footage.
At the end of the inspection, buyers receive a clear explanation of findings, along with video documentation that can be shared with real estate agents, sellers, or contractors.
Why Choose ACS Underground Solutions
ACS Underground Solutions specializes in professional video pipe inspections for homeowners, buyers, and real estate professionals throughout the tri-state area. With advanced equipment and experienced technicians, ACS delivers accurate diagnostics that help clients make informed decisions.
Whether you’re purchasing your first home or investing in property, ACS Underground Solutions provides the insight you need to move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Is a video pipe inspection included in a standard home inspection?
Answer: No. Most standard home inspections do not include sewer camera inspections. A video pipe inspection must be requested separately.
Question: When should a video pipe inspection be scheduled during the buying process?
Answer: It should be scheduled during the inspection contingency period, before closing, so any issues can be addressed or negotiated.
Question: How much does a video pipe inspection typically cost?
Answer: The cost is minimal compared to potential sewer repair expenses and is often one of the best investments a homebuyer can make.
Question: Can sellers refuse a video pipe inspection?
Answer: While sellers may decline, buyers can still choose to proceed or renegotiate based on risk. Many sellers agree when inspections are professionally conducted.
Question: What happens if a problem is found?
Answer: If an issue is identified, buyers can request repairs, negotiate a credit, or adjust the purchase price before closing.
Schedule a Video Pipe Inspection Before You Close
A video pipe inspection provides clarity where traditional inspections fall short. It helps homebuyers avoid hidden sewer problems, negotiate with confidence, and protect their investment for years to come.
Before you finalize your home purchase, contact ACS Underground Solutions to schedule a professional video pipe inspection and gain peace of mind beneath the surface.







