Sewer Scope or Septic Inspection

Why You Need a Sewer Scope Before Buying a Home

When you purchase a home, the sewer line running from your house to the city main becomes your responsibility the moment you close. Unfortunately, damage to this line is NOT covered by standard homeowner’s insurance or most home warranties. While an honest seller should disclose known issues, hidden problems can still exist.

Get a Sewer Scope or Septic Inspection

A sewer scope or septic inspection is NOT included in a standard home inspection. Your lender won’t require it, and your real estate agent may not always recommend it, but it’s worth the extra cost. Many buyers skip this inspection, only to face expensive surprises later. If problems are found, you may be able to negotiate repairs with the seller or back out of the purchase.

Common Causes of Sewer & Septic Failures

Sewer and septic systems can fail for several reasons, including:
✔️ Utility work accidentally damaging the line (even in new construction!)
✔️ Aging pipes (especially cast iron or older septic systems)
✔️ Tree root intrusion (common in clay pipes or any pipes with joints)
✔️ Poor maintenance of the septic system
✔️ Ground movement (shifts due to droughts, floods, earthquakes, or landslides)

How Much Do Sewer Repairs Cost?

Repairs can range from $2,000 to $30,000, depending on factors like:
💰 The extent of the damage
💰 The depth of the sewer line
💰 Whether concrete needs removal for access
💰 The length of pipe needing replacement

This is not a DIY fix—trust me, you don’t want to deal with a sewer backup firsthand! Sewer failures can lead to flooding, force you out of your home, and create additional problems like electrical hazards and heating issues.

Protect Yourself After Buying a Home

Even after closing, you can minimize your risk with:
✔️ Water backup coverage – An add-on to your homeowner’s insurance
✔️ Sewer & water line insurance (also called buried utilities coverage) – Available as a standalone policy or an insurance add-on

Sewer line insurance typically costs $5–$20 per month—a small price for peace of mind. Don’t let an unexpected sewer issue turn your dream home into a nightmare!

*For Omaha Metropolitan Area residents, I have a good news to share! You could purchase an exterior water line protection through MUD. Information as follow:

Metropolitan Utilities District - HomeServe, an Exterior Water Service Line Coverage Plan.

For $4.49/month. HomeServe USA, an independent provider of home repair service solutions, is offering M.U.D. residential customers an optional coverage plan to help protect your exterior water service line at a preferred price. Price is subject to change. The renewal fee after 1 year will be $6.49. Link for your reference:

https://www.mudomaha.com/homeserve/

If you're a first-time homebuyer or considering upsizing or downsizing, please feel free to reach out! I'm here to guide you through every step of the PROCESS!

Kristie Kuo, Realtor

ABR, MRP, PSA,

BHHS

402-720-8671