When buying a home, most buyers focus on what they can see — the roof, walls, flooring, and finishes. But what about what’s underground?

In a recent discussion, Mike Love of Great Move Realty sat down with Ryan Coy from ProPrecise Property Inspections to talk about one of the most overlooked yet essential parts of the home inspection process — the sewer scope inspection.

💧 What Is a Sewer Scope?

A sewer scope is a small camera attached to a flexible cable that allows inspectors to see inside your home’s sewer line. This tool helps identify:

• Root intrusions 🌳

• Cracked or collapsed pipes 🚧

• Blockages or buildup 💩

• Damage caused by construction or heavy vehicles 🚚

By running a camera through the main sewer line, inspectors can assess its overall condition and detect hidden issues long before they become costly emergencies.

⚠️ Why It Matters for Home Buyers

Mike and Ryan both agree: a general home inspection can’t see underground problems. The only way to know the true condition of your sewer line is with a camera.

Older homes (especially those built before the 1970s) are more likely to have outdated or fragile materials like clay or cast iron pipes. But even newer homes aren’t immune — heavy equipment or tree roots can damage modern PVC systems too.

A sewer scope gives buyers peace of mind and leverage during negotiations if repairs are needed. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands in future plumbing costs.

🧰 When Should You Get a Sewer Scope?

Ryan recommends adding a sewer scope to any inspection, but especially when:

• The home is over 40 years old

• There are large trees near the property

• You notice slow drains or frequent backups

• You’re buying a home with visible yard or foundation repairs

🤝 Protecting Your Next Move

At Great Move Realty, we believe every buyer deserves to know what they’re getting into — both above and below ground. Partnering with trusted professionals like ProPrecise Property Inspections ensures our clients have the full picture before making one of life’s biggest investments.

Before you make your next move, make sure your inspection goes the extra mile (and a few feet underground).

📞 Contact Great Move Realty today!