As a real estate agent, your clients depend on your expertise to navigate the complexities of purchasing a home. One critical aspect that often goes overlooked is the condition of a property’s sewer system. Recommending a sewer scope inspection can prevent potential headaches and significant expenses for your clients. Here are five key indicators that a home may require a sewer scope inspection:

1. Persistent Drainage Issues

When multiple drains in a home are slow or frequently clog, it could signal a blockage or damage in the main sewer line. While individual drain problems might be minor, widespread issues suggest a more serious underlying problem. According to Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, slow drains at multiple points often indicate a blockage in the sewer line.

2. Unpleasant Odors

Foul smells emanating from drains or around the property can be a red flag. These odors may indicate sewage is not properly flowing to the municipal sewer system, possibly due to a leak or blockage. The Home Inspectors note that sewer odors in or around the home are a common sign that it’s time to schedule a sewer scope inspection.

3. Unusual Sounds from Plumbing

Gurgling noises when flushing toilets or running sinks can suggest trapped air caused by a blockage. Such sounds often precede more severe issues like backups or overflows. As highlighted by Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, gurgling noises from drains can be an early warning sign of sewer line problems.

4. Lush Patches in the Yard

Unexpectedly green or lush areas in the yard, especially if the rest of the lawn is consistent, can indicate a leaking sewer line underground. Sewer water acts as a fertilizer, promoting excessive plant growth above the leak. Lush patches of grass in your yard could be a sign of a sewer or septic leak.

5. Presence of Pests

An increase in rodents or insects around the property can be linked to sewer line issues. These pests are attracted to the moisture and waste from leaking pipes and can enter the home through cracks. Rodents or pests in the house can indicate clogging or other problems in the sewer system.

The Role of Sewer Scope Inspections in Real Estate Transactions

A sewer scope inspection involves using a specialized camera to examine the interior of the sewer line, identifying issues like blockages, cracks, or tree root intrusions. For real estate agents, recommending this inspection offers several benefits:

• Protecting Client Investments: Identifying sewer line problems before purchase allows buyers to negotiate repairs or reconsider the deal, preventing unexpected costs.
• Enhancing Professional Reputation: Advising clients on comprehensive inspections demonstrates diligence and expertise, fostering trust and credibility.
• Preventing Future Liability: Unaddressed sewer issues can lead to significant damage and health hazards. Early detection shields both clients and agents from potential legal and financial repercussions.

Case Studies Highlighting the Importance of Sewer Inspections

Real-world scenarios underscore the necessity of sewer scope inspections:

• Missed Inspection Leads to Costly Repairs: In one instance, a clerical error led to a forgotten sewer scope inspection. The new homeowner experienced severe backups on the first day of occupancy, resulting in nearly $28,000 in repair costs. This situation could have been avoided with a proper sewer inspection.
• Undisclosed Sewer Issues in Property Sale: Homeowners purchased a property only to discover significant sewer problems shortly after moving in. They believed the sellers were aware of the faulty sewer pipe but failed to disclose it. This oversight led to unexpected repair expenses and legal disputes.

Best Practices for Real Estate Agents

To protect your clients and uphold your professional integrity:

• Recommend Sewer Scope Inspections: Encourage buyers to include sewer inspections as part of their due diligence, especially for older homes or properties with large trees nearby.
• Collaborate with Qualified Inspectors: Build relationships with reputable inspection companies to ensure thorough and accurate assessments.
• Educate Clients: Inform clients about the potential risks of foregoing a sewer inspection and the long-term benefits of identifying issues early.

Protect Your Clients and Build Trust with Sewer Scope Inspections

As the real estate market becomes increasingly competitive, offering comprehensive due diligence services like sewer scope inspections shows your commitment to your clients’ investments. Sewer issues can be especially prevalent in areas with older infrastructure, tree-lined streets, or shifting soils—all common in many Texas communities. Making sewer scope inspections a standard part of your buying process is a proactive approach that reflects your expertise and dedication to client satisfaction.

The small cost of a sewer scope inspection is a worthy investment compared to the financial burden of a sewer line replacement. By educating your clients on the importance of this inspection and guiding them to reputable inspectors, you’re providing them with the tools to protect their property, avoid major headaches, and confidently close on their dream home. In real estate, trust and reputation are everything—so set yourself apart by ensuring your clients are protected from what lies beneath their new home.