The main sewer line is the main drain pipe leading from the exterior of the structure to the city (public) sewer pipe connection normally found under the street or alley. The main sewer line can also connect to a private sewage disposal system such as a septic tank or cesspool.
The main sewer line is installed underground and therefore not visible. A main sewer line inspection involves sending a special camera into the sewer pipe so that its condition can be determined.
Many structures have main sewer line cleanouts. A cleanout is an access point with a removable cap to gain entry to the drain pipe. Cleanouts are normally used when the drain pipe is clogged and needs to be snaked out. When no cleanout is available, we can often gain access into the main sewer line by sending the camera down a vent pipe on the roof or by removing a toilet from the floor of the bathroom. The toilet is then reinstalled with a new seal when the inspection is completed.
There are many problems that can occur within the main sewer line, the most common being root intrusions that can cause blockages of the drain line and damage the pipe. Seismic activity can also cause damage and breaks in the sewer pipe. Many sewer pipes are made of materials that have a specific design life expectancy and may be worn out to the point of needing replacements or repairs.
Chris, good post, this is honestly, that I wouldn't think about until there was a problem, but it is a good idea to have it inspected prior to buying a house. Thanks for the post.
When I had my apartment complex I would have the sewer lines checked via a camera system. It was an excellent preventative measure against future problems.
Sean Allen
Chris, interesting post. I'm sure you get some wise "cracks" about your job? Grin. Nice they are a requirement though so the next buyer doesn't inherit the problem.
Sounds like one of those jobs for that show, "dirty jobs", you should submit it! Definitely not a job I would want, YUCK!!!
It sounds like you would need a cast iron stomach, for this job.
It should also be pointed out that this type of sewer line visual inspection is not normally included in most home inspections, but it can be very valuable in determining the exact condition of the sewer line, which is a major expense if it had to be dug up, repaired or replaced. Older homes especially can benefit from having this inspection done.
Chris,
Great post. Too many of us are penny wise and dollar foolish as there can be said a lot about preventitive maintenance and testing the areas unseen before buying. Infrared cameras and snake type cameras you are using in the picture above will be the norm in years to come as the inspection business really takes off and people start seeing it for what it is. Then maybe we can get the price to where it is suppose to be.
My local twp recently installed cleanout two vents for the sewer line and left 2 PVC pipes sticking out 6+ inches above the ground in the middle of my lawn. I challenged the need to have them above ground b/c they're an incredible eye sore and a tripping hazard for my kids, but the twp said it was a local ordinance to control water run-off from getting into the sewer. I've noticed several other houses in my twp with the two vents, but I haven't seen them elsewhere outside my twp. Aren't there alternatives to the above ground vents....like capping them just below grade or above grade?
DEVON: Most cleanout caps can be sealed from water intrusion and installed in an access box that is flush with the surrounding grade. I have never heard of any ordinance requiring the cleanout caps be installed above ground. I would check with the local Building Department to find out what is the ordinace that yoour plumber has cited.
When conducting a home inspection, I'm always on the lookout for 'sewer cleaning' stickers. They're usually on the riser or inside the kitchen cabinet.
As a precaution, I alway include this little nugget in my report:
"It is impossible for me to determine the condition of the sewer pipe underground and/or outside the house. I recommend you consult with the seller to determine any history of blockage. You should consider having the sewer line video taped to determine existing conditions."
Darren
www.aboutthehouseinspections.com
Chris, being in that line of work I am sure you have had to deal with downtown for repairs of your camera. Have you taken a look at the new Easy Cam? It is has been engineered from the ground up with plumbers in mind. All the parts are user replaceable with a couple of allen wrenches and a screwdriver. It's truly an amazing camera. Check it out and let me know what you think. <a href="http://www.easycamllc.com">Easy Cam's Sewer Inspection Camera Website</a>
Thanks!
Bill
Sorry my link didn't work for you....
Chris, being in that line of work I am sure you have had to deal with downtown for repairs of your camera. Have you taken a look at the new Easy Cam? It is has been engineered from the ground up with plumbers in mind. All the parts are user replaceable with a couple of allen wrenches and a screwdriver. It's truly an amazing camera. Check it out and let me know what you think. Easy Cam's Sewer Inspection Camera Website
Thanks!
Bill
Sewer Cleaner may be something you need, but if your home is in a part of the country where the weather is bad for half of the year, there may not be much you can do about it until spring arrives.
Sewer Cleaner
Sewer Maintenance may be something you need, but if your home is in a part of the country where the weather is bad for half of the year, there may not be much you can do about it until spring arrives.
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