Answer: The main sewer line is the most frequently forgotten component of a home, but yet one of the most important ones. A sewer camera inspection will give you a clear answer on the condition of your line, and identify any current issues.
Did you know that a sewer line inspection is not included in a general home inspection? What is even worse is that most inspectors will not warn you about the possible risks in buying a home without knowing the condition of the sewer line. There is usually a sentence in the inspection agreement that states that the inspector is not liable for the condition of the sewer line. That is about it!
Answer: Your sewer line could be filled with tree roots and at the verge of becoming blocked. You might be weeks or months away from complete blockage and you won’t know about until you come home from work and your basement is filled with sewage!
Also, a sewer line might shift or collapse, and repairs or replacement will be necessary immediately. Repair or replacement costs can be very expensive.
Answer: The cost varies greatly! Sometimes the sewer line can be repaired. Other times it must be entirely replaced. If you must dig to repair the sewer line during winter months the cost will be even higher as there will be additional work to dig in frozen ground. The cost of repairing or replacing a sewer line typically ranges from $5,000-$20,000. Most cities will allow you to put the majority of this cost into your specials, but you will still end up paying for it.