In Nashville’s fast-moving real estate market—where charming bungalows meet newly built homes—buyers and agents are often focused on curb appeal, appliances, and square footage. But some of the most expensive issues lie underground. One of the most overlooked but essential inspections during the buying process is the sewer scope inspection.
For both real estate agents and homebuyers, understanding when and why to include a sewer line inspection can mean the difference between a smooth sale and thousands in unexpected repairs.
What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera through a home’s main sewer line to check for structural issues or obstructions. Inspectors look for cracks, roots, pipe sagging, clogs, and signs of deterioration. Unlike general home inspections, which are often visual and surface-level, a sewer scope gives you a direct look at what’s happening inside the pipe system.
Homeowners are financially responsible for the entire sewer line until it connects with the city’s main line. If there’s an issue, you’re the one paying for the excavation, repair, or replacement—not the city. According to HomeAdvisor, repairing or replacing a sewer line can cost anywhere from $2,500 to over $7,000, depending on the damage and location.
Why Sewer Line Problems Are Common in Nashville
Nashville has a unique mix of housing stock and environmental conditions that make sewer scope inspections a smart—and often necessary—step in the inspection process:
- Older Homes in Historic Neighborhoods: Many of Nashville’s most desirable areas—like East Nashville, 12 South, and Sylvan Park—have homes built before 1970. These often have outdated sewer systems made of cast iron, clay, or Orangeburg pipe, all of which are vulnerable to cracking, collapsing, or corrosion.
- Tree-Lined Streets: While trees add to a home’s beauty and value, their roots often grow into sewer lines looking for moisture. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), root intrusion is a leading cause of blockages in older pipes.
- Soil Movement and Flooding: Nashville’s clay-heavy soil is prone to expansion and contraction, especially during freeze-thaw cycles or heavy rains—both of which are common in Middle Tennessee. This movement can lead to “bellies” in the sewer line, or sagging sections where waste and water can pool, increasing the risk of backups.
- Recent Construction Booms: Even new homes aren’t immune. With the explosion of new builds around areas like Antioch, Mt. Juliet, and The Nations, some builders may connect to older existing sewer lines or install them improperly. A sewer scope can catch mistakes early.
Signs There Might Be a Sewer Line Issue
While a sewer issue may not always show signs until it’s severe, there are red flags agents and buyers should watch for:
- Slow draining sinks, tubs, or showers throughout the house
- Gurgling sounds in the plumbing
- Frequent toilet backups
- Foul odors around drains or the yard
- Soft or soggy patches in the lawn, especially near the sewer line route
When Should You Schedule a Sewer Scope Inspection?
Experts recommend including a sewer scope whenever:
- The home is more than 20 years old
- There are large trees near the foundation
- There are signs of poor drainage or frequent backups
- The property has had prior sewer repairs (ask sellers for documentation)
- You’re representing a buyer purchasing a flipped or newly built home
Adding a sewer scope to the inspection process typically costs between $200–$400, depending on your location and the inspector. That’s a small price compared to the cost of digging up and replacing a collapsed line.
How Sewer Scope Inspections Help Agents and Buyers
For buyers, a sewer scope inspection offers peace of mind and financial protection. It gives you the full picture of a home’s condition and allows you to negotiate repairs or replacement before closing if problems are found.
For agents, recommending a sewer scope demonstrates your commitment to protecting your client’s best interests. It can also prevent post-sale issues that lead to disputes or reputation damage.
If you’re representing a seller, having a clean sewer scope report can become a strong selling point and increase buyer confidence—especially in older homes.
Nashville-Specific Considerations
Nashville has seen rapid population growth and increased property development in recent years, especially in areas like Donelson, Madison, and Germantown. These transitions often mix old infrastructure with new construction—an environment where sewer issues can thrive.
According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, improper stormwater drainage and overwhelmed sewer systems are growing concerns in urban neighborhoods. Sewer scopes can help identify whether your prospective home is connected to a private line or tied into older municipal systems that may be due for upgrades.
What a Sewer Scope Report Includes
Most reports will include:
- High-quality video footage from the inspection
- Identification of the pipe material and condition
- Clear notations of any blockages, damage, or root intrusion
- Recommendations for repair or replacement, if needed
Some inspectors may also include location mapping to pinpoint exactly where a problem lies, which can help contractors minimize excavation work.
Agents Know: It’s What’s Underground That Counts
At Nashville Home Inspection, we’ve seen firsthand how overlooked sewer problems can turn into financial disasters. Sewer scope inspections offer a low-cost way to protect your investment, avoid headaches after closing, and keep deals on track. Whether your clients are first-time buyers in Inglewood or seasoned investors in Green Hills, recommending a sewer line inspection shows your professionalism and care.
Don’t wait for a backed-up toilet or a flooded yard to uncover hidden issues. Schedule a sewer scope inspection with Nashville Home Inspection today—because what you can’t see can cost you.
