How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Inspection?

Did you know that almost 80% of homeowners have never had their sewer lines checked? This can lead to expensive repairs that could have been avoided. The pipes under your home are essential for keeping your living space healthy, but they’re often forgotten until something goes wrong.

Regular sewer inspections aren’t just about avoiding surprises, they’re about keeping your home safe and making sure everything works smoothly. We’ll explain how often you should get your sewer inspected and what factors can affect this important task.

At Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC, we’re here to help you avoid problems before they start. Schedule your sewer inspection today and keep your home safe from unexpected issues. Call us today!

What is a Sewer Inspection?

Knowing what’s going on in your sewer lines is key to keeping your plumbing in good shape. A sewer inspection helps find hidden problems before they turn into big issues. It’s important to know what a sewer inspection involves and why it matters.

how often to inspect sewer lines A sewer inspection takes a close look at your home’s waste system. Experts use a sewer camera to see inside the pipes. This method, called a sewer camera inspection, involves threading a camera through the sewer line to show live footage of the pipe’s condition.

Another way is the traditional manual inspection, where professionals might physically enter larger sewer systems or use tools to clear debris and get a better look. Both methods are used to spot blockages, damage, or wear and tear in the system.

Regular sewer inspections catch problems like cracks or blockages early, helping prevent major plumbing issues later. Think of it as a check-up for your home’s plumbing system, saving you from costly repairs down the road.

Why Regular Sewer Inspections Matter

Regular sewer inspections help you avoid unexpected plumbing problems. By checking your sewer lines regularly, you can catch issues early and save on expensive repairs.

Here’s why it’s a good idea to make sewer inspections part of your routine maintenance:

Preventing Problems

Regular inspections spot problems early. They can find blockages, tree roots growing into pipes, and worn-out pipes. If these issues aren’t caught, they can cause serious damage. Inspections help keep your plumbing system in good shape.

Blockages often happen when debris builds up in the pipes, which can slow down water flow and cause backups. Tree roots can also break into sewer lines, causing breaks or blockages. Over time, pipes can wear out because of age or weather. Regular inspections catch these issues before they get worse.

Protecting Health

Inspections help prevent sewer backups, which can bring harmful bacteria into your home. By getting regular inspections, you protect your home and family from these health risks.

Sewer backups don’t just affect your home, they can also harm your community’s health. Regular inspections help keep the sewer system clean and safe for everyone.

Saving Money

Regular inspections are cost-effective. They help you avoid expensive emergency repairs by finding problems early. Fixing minor issues before they turn into big ones saves your money in the long run.

Emergency repairs are often costly and inconvenient. Regular inspections reduce the chance of unexpected breakdowns, giving you peace of mind knowing your sewer system is in good condition.

Recommended Frequency of Sewer Inspections

To keep your plumbing system in top condition, regular sewer inspections are essential. Schedule an inspection every 1-3 years. But there are also different factors that affect the frequency of sewer inspections.

Here’s how to decide when to inspect your sewer system:

Homes Over 50 Years Old

If your home is over 50 years old, schedule an inspection every year.
Older homes have aging sewer lines that require more frequent attention to prevent serious damage.

Challenging Soil or Nearby Trees

If your home is in an area with challenging soil conditions or near large trees, consider more frequent inspections.
These factors can put extra stress on your sewer lines, making regular checks important for preventing issues like root intrusion and pipe deterioration.

Homes with Past Sewer Issues

If your home has had sewer issues before, schedule inspections at least once a year.
Regular monitoring helps catch recurring problems early, allowing you to address them before they become major headaches.

Large Households or High Usage

If you have a large household or a property with high water usage, consider scheduling sewer inspections more frequently than every 1-3 years.
Heavy usage puts additional strain on the sewer system, so more frequent inspections can help prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Signs You Need an Immediate Sewer Inspection

Sometimes, sewer problems need to be addressed right away. If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait for your next scheduled inspection. Call for help immediately. Here are the warning signs that it’s time to call for an immediate sewer inspection.

Slow Drains

If your drains are moving slowly, it might seem like a small problem, but it can signal bigger issues in your plumbing. Water taking too long to drain from your sink or bathtub could mean there’s damage deeper in your sewer lines.

Bad Smells

Your sewer system shouldn’t produce any noticeable odors. If you start smelling something foul from your drains or yard, it’s a clear sign of trouble. This usually means there’s a break in the sewer line, allowing gases to escape. You’ll need an inspection right away.

Frequent Backups

Occasional backups are normal, but if they keep happening, it’s a serious warning. Regular sewage backups suggest major problems in your sewer line that need quick attention to prevent bigger issues.

Emergency Situations

Some situations require immediate action, no matter when you last checked your pipes. If you see sewage pooling in your yard or multiple fixtures clogging at once, it’s urgent. These signs point to severe blockages or breaks that could cause significant damage and health risks.

How to Schedule a Sewer Inspection

When it’s time to schedule a sewer inspection, finding the right professional is key. From choosing the right service to getting your home ready, a few steps can make the process smooth. Here’s how to schedule a sewer inspection and what to expect.

Choosing the Right Professional

Finding the right professional is essential for a thorough sewer inspection. To make the best choice:

Verify Licensing and Experience: Choose a licensed plumber with specific experience in sewer systems.
Check Reviews and References: Read customer reviews and ask for references to confirm their reliability.
Assess Their Tools: Ensure they use modern tools, such as video inspection equipment, for a comprehensive examination.
Compare Options: Collect quotes and services from multiple companies to find the best balance between cost and quality.

Preparing Your Home

As a homeowner, you can help make the inspection go smoothly by:

Clearing Access: Ensure clear access to the main sewer line.
Removing Obstacles: Clear any obstacles that could block the inspector’s path.
Notifying Household Members: Inform everyone in your household about the inspection to avoid water usage during the process, which could affect the results.

What to Expect During the Inspection

During the inspection, professionals will:

Use Cameras: Carefully examine your sewer lines using specialized cameras.
Check for Issues: Look for any blockages, damage, or signs of wear.
Provide a Report: After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed report outlining any issues.
Recommend Solutions: The report will include recommended solutions for any problems found.
Help You Prepare: Understanding what to expect during the inspection helps you prepare for any necessary repairs.

What Happens After the Inspection?

Once your sewer inspection is complete, you’ll receive a report on the condition of your system. Understanding the results and taking the right actions is important for keeping your sewer lines in good shape.

Here’s what to expect after the inspection and what to do next.

Understanding the Results

After the inspection, you’ll get a detailed report that shows the condition of your sewer system. It will highlight any blockages, breaks, or wear that could cause problems.

The report might seem technical, but it’s important to review it carefully, possibly with a professional, to fully understand the state of your system.

Taking Action

If the inspection finds issues, it’s important to act quickly. Depending on the problem:

Minor Issues: Simple repairs may be enough.
Major Problems: You might need more extensive work or even a system replacement.

Consulting with experts will help you choose the best solution that balances cost and effectiveness.

Maintenance Tips

Keeping your sewer system in good shape between inspections is key to avoiding problems.

Be Careful What You Flush: Avoid flushing grease, wipes, and other non-biodegradable items down the drain.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean your drain lines to keep the system clear.

Prevent Issues by Scheduling Your Sewer Check Today!

Regular sewer inspections are key to keeping your plumbing system in good shape. Think of them as routine check-ups for your home’s pipes, helping you avoid big problems later on. You now know why these inspections matter, how often to schedule them, and the signs that need immediate attention.

Catching issues early can save you time, money, and the hassle of dealing with unexpected plumbing issues. Knowing what to do after an inspection keeps you prepared and ready to handle any needed repairs.

Don’t wait until a backup causes trouble, schedule your sewer inspection with Tom’s Plumbing and Drain Service, LLC today to keep your system running smoothly. It’s a simple and smart way to prevent bigger problems down the line. Your home deserves this care, and so do you.

Get in touch with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my sewer inspected?

Ideally, sewer inspections should be scheduled every 18 to 22 months. This frequency helps in identifying potential issues before they become major problems.

Why are regular sewer inspections necessary?

Regular inspections prevent blockages, detect pipe damage early, and save you from costly repairs down the line. They ensure your sewer system is functioning properly.

What are the signs that I need an immediate sewer inspection?

Signs include unusual odors, slow drains, and unexplained lush spots in your yard. If you notice these, it’s time for an inspection right away.

How do I schedule a sewer inspection?

Contact a professional plumbing service that specializes in sewer inspections. They can provide you with a detailed assessment and schedule a visit at your convenience.

What happens after a sewer inspection?

The inspector will provide you with a report detailing the condition of your sewer line, including any issues found and recommended repairs or maintenance.

Can regular sewer inspections extend the life of my sewer system?

Yes, by identifying and addressing issues early, regular inspections can significantly extend the lifespan of your sewer system.

Is there a best time of year to schedule a sewer inspection?

While inspections can be conducted year-round, scheduling during dry weather can make it easier to identify potential problems.