Many people choose to live in old, historic homes that possess timeless, elegant design and a long, fascinating history.
And while hiring a professional home inspector is common, many first-time home buyers fail to take these homes’ sewer lines into account. If a home’s sewer system is more than 40 years old, it might need replacing — and using a sewer system fraught with blockage and cracks could lead to costly repair work.
Performing a sewer camera inspection on the older home you plan to buy can alert you to a number of key issues such as the need for sewer line repair, replacement or sewer drain cleaning. Here’s all you need to know to make sure your planned sewer line inspection gives you the most accurate results:
Why inspect a sewer line?
As stated above, a sewer line inspection can alert you to any problems in your prospective home’s sewer line system. Among many older homes, tree roots are a major cause of blockage. These roots grow into the sewer’s piping and ultimately latch onto debris sent down your home’s drains. By having a sewer line inspected, you can find out whether or not you’ll need to invest in a sewer line cleaning, repair or replacement once you’ve bought the home.
How to perform an inspection
Typically, you will want to hire a professional sewer inspection company to perform these inspections. These companies employ CCTV technology to remotely capture a video recording of the sewer line’s interior. Most companies will guide you through the inspection process, pointing out any signs of breaks and cracks in the sewer lines, and provide you with a DVD of this video afterward.
What to do if you need a sewer line repair
If you ultimately discover that your dream home needs a sewer line repair or replacement, you might actually be able to afford these repairs more than you think. With the advent of trenchless technology — which accesses a sewer line via just one access hole in the ground — sewer repairs have become much more cost-effective. Best of all? Trenchless repairs won’t disrupt your home’s landscaping or historic features.
How to find the best sewer service
Finding a reliable sewer service provider is crucial. A professional team can save you time, money, and future headaches. Here’s how to identify the best sewer service for your needs.
1. Research Credentials and Experience: Look for companies with a proven track record and certifications. Licensed and insured providers ensure that the work meets industry standards. Companies with years of experience are more likely to handle complex issues efficiently.
2. Check Reviews and Recommendations: Online reviews and testimonials can give you a sense of a company’s reputation. Platforms like Google, Yelp, or the Better Business Bureau often highlight customer experiences. Additionally, ask friends or neighbors for recommendations if they’ve recently hired sewer services.
3. Assess Their Range of Services: The best sewer service companies offer comprehensive solutions, including inspections, repairs, cleaning, and maintenance. Modern providers often use advanced tools like video inspections to diagnose issues accurately. A full-service company reduces the need to hire multiple contractors.
4. Inquire About Emergency Services: Sewer emergencies can arise at any time. Choose a provider with 24/7 availability to ensure immediate assistance when you need it most.
5. Compare Pricing and Transparency: Get quotes from several companies to compare costs. Be cautious of unusually low estimates, as they might indicate subpar work or hidden fees. A trustworthy provider offers upfront pricing and a detailed breakdown of costs.
6. Evaluate Customer Service: A company’s responsiveness and professionalism matter. Prompt communication, clear explanations, and courteous staff signal a customer-focused approach.
Finding the best sewer and septic services requires research, but it’s worth the effort to ensure high-quality results. By following these steps, you can confidently select a provider that meets your needs and resolves sewer issues effectively.
Have any other questions or comments about sewer line inspections or about procedures like trenchless sewer line repair? Feel free to start a conversation by leaving a comment below.
