Septic and Drain Inspection – Is it Needed?

Inspecting the main sewer or septic line before buying a home has become standard practice in much of Michigan, and for good reason. When you purchase a house connected to the city sewer system, you are responsible for the main sewer line all the way until it taps into the city main, regardless of where the pipe is located underground.

When you purchase a home on a septic, you want to know the condition of the drains and the septic line leading from the house to the tank. 

Call Kauer & Son Plumbing & Drain – 586-855-8533

Understanding the Main Sewer Line

If the house is on a slab foundation or has a crawlspace, sometimes the inspection may need to be performed by pulling and resetting a toilet to access the waste-line.

Call Kauer & Son Plumbing & Drain – 586-855-8533

Going the Extra Mile

At Kauer & Son, we go the extra mile to ensure a thorough Sewer/Septic Line and Drain inspection. Whether it involves chiseling off (and replacing) an old rusted shut clean-out cap, pulling and resetting a toilet to gain access to the waste-line (with the homeowner’s permission), or running the camera through an old-school sanitary house trap, we’ll do what’s necessary to get the job done safely and professionally. You’ll have access to a video recording of the line.

Call Kauer & Son Plumbing & Drain – 586-855-8533

For Home Buyers

If you’re buying a home, a sewer/septic line inspection can uncover problems that cost thousands of dollars to repair, often unknown even to the current homeowner. Most sewers in homes built before the 1980s are made of original clay tile or cast iron, or are at least partially original. Given their age, they can be plagued with tree root intrusions, cracks, breaks, bellies, shifts, and more. The biggest thing we’re looking for is any telltale signs of failure that indicate the structural integrity of the pipe is compromised. A proper sewer/septic line inspection will not only help save you from unexpected repair costs but also help prevent an unwelcome sewer backup into the home. Trust us, it’s not a happy housewarming gift, especially after you’ve just moved in all your personal items. Often, the sewer/septic line turns out to be in great shape, but it’s worth paying for that peace of mind!

Call Kauer & Son Plumbing & Drain – 586-855-8533

For Home Sellers

If you’re selling your home and the buyer’s inspection found tree roots, calcium buildup, or other debris built up in the line that needs to be cleared out, it’s likely they will ask you as the current homeowner to take care of it. We can cable the lines and re-inspect them with the camera afterward in the same appointment (includes a before and after video).