An older home may utilize a sewer system that contains clay or concrete pipes. These materials aren't as hardy as the plastic, flexible piping that is used in new construction. Before purchasing a residence, an interested buyer can pay to have a video sewer inspection performed. An inspection will ensure that sewer system components aren't damaged or at risk of triggering a backflow situation.

New Versus Old Construction

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) plastics are used to create piping and fittings that are used to construct new sewer systems. Older sewer systems relied heavily upon denser materials that are rigid in design. Either clay or concrete pipe can crack, especially if tree roots grow near the location of a sewer system.

New sewer systems should also be inspected. Although a newer sewer system that contains plastic materials is typically more resilient to damage, the improper installation of a system or the slope of the land could contribute to sewer line blockages or damages. 

The Video Camera Inspection Process

A small video camera that has been designed to capture the footage within a sewer system will detect inconsistencies in the sewer line pieces. A linesman who performs the imaging within a sewer line will be able to identify if there are any blockages or damaged materials that will need to be replaced. A blockage may necessitate that a sewage tank is pumped or that snaking equipment is used to flush out the lines that are connected to a tank.

If there are damaged materials present, they will need to be removed and replaced. If a camera inspection uncovers problems, a person who is interested in purchasing a piece of property can enquire about the costs that they will incur to upgrade the sewer equipment. They may be able to negotiate with the homeowner and receive a reduction in how much a seller will charge them for the purchase of the property.

If a seller is not willing to budge on the price that they have initially listed their home and land for, an individual will need to decide if they are willing to invest the money that is necessary to upgrade the sewer equipment. When repairs are needed for an older system, a plumber may recommend that clay or concrete sewer lines be replaced with plastic ones. The installation of plastic sewer lines will minimize many future issues that may be encountered with the use of rigid line materials. 

For more information on why you should get a video sewer inspection, contact a professional near you.