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Should You Get a Sewer Scope on a Newer Atlanta Home? What Buyers Need to Know Before Closing
- Tyler Reynolds
- 2 days ago
- 12 min read
Learn why a sewer scope inspection is one of the most important add-on inspections for Atlanta homebuyers—even on newer homes—and how it can help uncover hidden defects before closing.
Should You Get a Sewer Scope on a Newer Atlanta Home? What Buyers Need to Know Before Closing
Introduction
If you’re buying a home in Atlanta, Marietta, Roswell, Woodstock, Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, Sandy Springs, Decatur, East Cobb, or anywhere else in the metro area, you’ve probably heard this advice:
“Get a home inspection.”
That’s good advice.
But there is another inspection that many buyers skip—sometimes because they don’t know it exists and sometimes because they assume newer homes couldn’t possibly have underground sewer problems.
That inspection is a sewer scope.
And it may be one of the most valuable inspections you can order.
At Reynolds Home and Property Solutions, we perform sewer scope inspections throughout the Atlanta metro area. One thing we’ve learned is that sewer problems do not care how old a home is.
We’ve found significant sewer defects in:
Brand-new construction homes
Homes less than one year old
Five-year-old homes
Twenty-year-old homes
Historic Atlanta properties
Many of these issues were completely invisible from inside the home.
The toilets flushed.
The sinks drained.
Everything appeared normal.
Yet a sewer camera inspection revealed conditions that could eventually lead to backups, costly repairs, water damage, and major disruptions.
A sewer scope inspection allows a trained inspector to insert a specialized camera into the home’s drain system and evaluate the condition of the sewer lateral—the underground pipe carrying wastewater from the home to the municipal sewer system.
The National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO) and numerous municipal sewer authorities recognize the value of camera inspections for identifying defects that cannot be observed during a standard visual inspection.
Additional information:
For Atlanta-area buyers, sewer scope inspections have become increasingly important due to rapid development, aging infrastructure, construction-related damage, and the widespread presence of tree roots throughout older neighborhoods.
This article explains why newer homes can still have sewer defects, what a sewer scope inspection includes, what problems are commonly found in Atlanta, and why many homebuyers consider it one of the smartest investments they can make before closing.
Table of Contents
What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
Why Sewer Lines Matter
Why New Homes Can Have Sewer Problems
Common Sewer Defects Found in Atlanta
Sewer Issues in New Construction Homes
Tree Root Intrusion
Construction Damage
Settlement and Soil Movement
Improper Installation
Municipal Connections
What a Sewer Scope Inspection Includes
What a Sewer Scope Does Not Include
Cost Implications
Safety Concerns
Home Buyer Advice
Home Seller Advice
Georgia-Specific Considerations
Atlanta Market Considerations
Frequently Asked Questions
Key Takeaways
✓ Sewer lines can develop defects regardless of a home’s age.
✓ New construction homes can have sewer issues caused by installation errors, construction debris, improper slopes, or damage during construction.
✓ A standard home inspection does not fully evaluate underground sewer lines.
✓ Sewer repairs can cost thousands of dollars depending on the defect and location.
✓ Atlanta’s aging infrastructure and extensive tree coverage increase sewer-related risks.
✓ A sewer scope inspection can provide valuable information before closing.
What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?
A sewer scope inspection uses a specialized waterproof camera that is inserted into the home’s drainage system.
The camera travels through the sewer lateral and records the interior condition of the pipe.
The inspector evaluates:
Pipe condition
Pipe material
Root intrusion
Cracks
Breaks
Offsets
Bellies
Obstructions
Construction debris
Improper connections
Unlike a standard home inspection, which is primarily visual and non-invasive, a sewer scope allows direct observation of underground piping.
The Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes the importance of maintaining wastewater systems and addressing defects before they create health or environmental hazards.
Why Sewer Lines Matter
Most homeowners never think about their sewer line.
Until something goes wrong.
The sewer lateral is one of the most important systems in any home.
Every sink.
Every toilet.
Every shower.
Every washing machine.
Every dishwasher.
Eventually relies on that underground pipe.
When a sewer lateral fails, consequences may include:
Sewage backups
Property damage
Costly excavation
Landscape disruption
Temporary loss of plumbing use
Health hazards
The CDC identifies sewage exposure as a potential source of disease-causing organisms and recommends avoiding contact whenever possible.
Why New Homes Can Have Sewer Problems
One of the biggest myths in real estate is that sewer scopes are only necessary for older homes.
That simply is not true.
In fact, some of the most surprising sewer defects are found in homes less than five years old.
Why?
Because many sewer defects occur during construction.
Common causes include:
Heavy equipment traffic
Poor installation practices
Inadequate testing
Improper bedding
Soil settlement
Construction debris
The home may be brand new.
The sewer line may not be.
Common Sewer Defects Found in Atlanta Homes
Construction Debris
One of the most common findings in newer homes is construction debris inside the sewer line.
Examples include:
Drywall compound
Concrete
Grout
Paint
Roofing material
Wood fragments
These materials may not cause immediate blockages.
Over time, however, debris can restrict flow and increase the likelihood of backups.
Improper Pipe Slope
Sewer lines must maintain proper slope to transport wastewater efficiently.
Too little slope can result in standing waste.
Too much slope can create velocity problems that leave solids behind.
The International Residential Code establishes requirements for drainage pipe installation and slope.
Improper slope is not visible during a traditional home inspection.
A sewer camera may reveal evidence of poor installation.
Bellies in Sewer Lines
A “belly” occurs when a section of pipe sags below the intended grade.
Water collects in the low spot.
Waste can accumulate.
Blockages become more likely.
Bellies may occur because of:
Settlement
Improper compaction
Poor installation
Soil movement
Georgia’s clay-rich soils can contribute to these conditions.
Cracked Sewer Pipes
Even newer pipes can crack.
Potential causes include:
Construction equipment
Improper installation
Manufacturing defects
Settlement
Cracks may initially appear minor but can worsen over time.
Offset Joints
An offset occurs when one pipe segment shifts relative to another.
Wastewater can catch at the offset.
Debris accumulates.
Flow becomes restricted.
These conditions often develop due to settlement or improper installation.
Root Intrusion
Many buyers assume root intrusion is only an issue for older homes.
Atlanta’s extensive tree canopy proves otherwise.
Even relatively young trees can send roots toward sewer lines.
Roots seek moisture.
A small joint opening may eventually become a major intrusion point.
The City of Atlanta maintains extensive urban forestry programs because tree coverage is one of the defining characteristics of the city.
While beneficial, those trees can create challenges for underground infrastructure.
Sewer Issues Found in New Construction Homes
Many buyers are shocked to learn that sewer defects are routinely identified in new homes.
Examples may include:
Construction debris
Improper cleanout installation
Offset joints
Standing water
Damaged pipe sections
Incomplete repairs
Improper municipal connections
The reality is simple:
A sewer line is buried underground.
No one sees it after construction is complete.
That makes independent verification particularly valuable.
Expert Insight
One of the most common statements we hear is:
“The house is brand new. Why would I need a sewer scope?”
Because we routinely find defects in newer homes.
Some of the most significant sewer issues we’ve documented have been discovered before the homeowner ever moved in.
The age of the home does not guarantee the condition of the sewer line.
Construction Damage During Development
Modern subdivisions involve significant equipment activity.
Excavators.
Dump trucks.
Concrete trucks.
Utility contractors.
Landscapers.
Grading crews.
Even when pipes are installed correctly, heavy equipment traffic can create unintended damage.
In some cases, defects do not become apparent until months or years later.
Settlement and Georgia Soil Movement
Georgia’s soils create unique challenges.
Many areas throughout Atlanta contain clay-heavy soils that expand when wet and contract when dry.
The University of Georgia provides extensive information regarding Georgia soil characteristics and movement.
As soils move, buried utilities may experience:
Pipe offsets
Joint separation
Bellies
Cracks
These conditions can impact both older and newer homes.
What a Sewer Scope Inspection Includes
A sewer scope inspection typically includes:
Accessing an appropriate cleanout
Inserting a specialized camera
Recording the condition of the sewer lateral
Identifying visible defects
Documenting observations
Providing video evidence
Preparing a report
At Reynolds Home and Property Solutions, sewer scope inspections include video documentation whenever conditions allow.
What a Sewer Scope Inspection Does Not Include
Buyers should understand that sewer scope inspections have limitations.
Typically, they do not include:
Pipe cleaning
Pipe repairs
Excavation
Municipal sewer evaluation beyond accessible portions
Septic system inspections
Engineering services
The purpose is evaluation and documentation.
Cost Implications of Sewer Defects
One reason sewer scope inspections are becoming increasingly popular is the potential cost associated with underground sewer repairs.
Depending on the type, location, and severity of the defect, repairs may involve:
Spot repairs
Pipe lining
Partial replacement
Full replacement
Excavation
Landscape restoration
Many buyers prefer learning about these conditions before closing rather than after taking ownership.
Safety Concerns Associated With Sewer Defects
Many homeowners think of sewer problems as an inconvenience.
In reality, some sewer defects can create significant health and safety concerns.
Wastewater contains bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other contaminants that should remain within the drainage system.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to untreated sewage can create health risks and should be addressed promptly.
Potential concerns associated with sewer failures include:
Sewage backups into living areas
Contaminated crawlspaces
Indoor air quality concerns
Mold growth resulting from moisture intrusion
Damage to structural materials
Attraction of insects and pests
While not every sewer defect creates an immediate hazard, identifying problems early can help prevent larger issues later.
Georgia-Specific Considerations
Buying a home in Georgia comes with unique sewer-related considerations that may not exist in other parts of the country.
Expansive Clay Soils
Many areas throughout metro Atlanta contain clay-rich soils that expand when wet and contract during dry conditions.
Over time, this movement can affect underground utilities, including sewer laterals.
Potential impacts include:
Pipe movement
Joint separation
Bellies
Offsets
Settlement-related damage
Additional information:
Mature Tree Canopies
Atlanta is known as the “City in a Forest.”
According to the City of Atlanta, the city has one of the highest urban tree canopy percentages among major metropolitan areas.
While beautiful, these trees can increase the risk of root intrusion into sewer systems.
Common high-risk areas include:
East Cobb
Sandy Springs
Decatur
Brookhaven
Roswell
Buckhead
Older sections of Marietta
Rapid Residential Development
Metro Atlanta continues to experience substantial residential growth.
Large-scale construction projects can increase the likelihood of:
Installation defects
Utility conflicts
Improper grading
Settlement concerns
This is one reason sewer scope inspections are increasingly recommended even for newer homes.
Atlanta Market Considerations
Many Atlanta homebuyers are highly focused on:
Roof age
HVAC systems
Foundation concerns
Yet one of the most expensive systems to repair is often overlooked.
The sewer lateral.
Unlike a roof or HVAC system, the sewer line is buried underground and cannot be evaluated through a normal visual walkthrough.
In competitive real estate markets, buyers sometimes waive inspection contingencies or reduce due diligence periods.
Doing so without understanding the condition of the sewer system can create unnecessary risk.
A sewer scope inspection provides information that would otherwise remain hidden.
Home Buyer Advice
If you’re buying a home in Atlanta, consider adding a sewer scope inspection when:
The home is more than 10 years old
Large trees are present
The property has a history of plumbing issues
The home has cast iron piping
The home has Orangeburg piping
The property has experienced settlement
The home is newly constructed
The seller cannot provide sewer documentation
One of the biggest misconceptions is that sewer scopes are only necessary for older homes.
As discussed earlier, many defects occur during construction.
Because of this, we often recommend sewer scopes regardless of age.
Home Seller Advice
Sellers can also benefit from sewer scope inspections.
A pre-listing sewer scope may:
Identify concerns before listing
Reduce surprises during negotiations
Increase buyer confidence
Help establish realistic expectations
Provide documentation supporting the property’s condition
In some cases, sellers discover issues early enough to make repairs before a buyer ever sees the property.
Maintenance Tips for Atlanta Homeowners
Whether you own a brand-new home or a century-old property, proactive maintenance can help reduce sewer problems.
Be Careful What Goes Down Drains
Avoid introducing:
Grease
Cooking oils
Paint
Construction materials
Disposable wipes
Feminine hygiene products
Many products marketed as “flushable” can still contribute to blockages.
The EPA recommends proper disposal practices to protect wastewater systems.
Monitor Large Trees
Trees located near sewer lines should be monitored.
Roots naturally seek moisture and may exploit small openings in pipe joints.
Address Plumbing Issues Promptly
Warning signs include:
Slow drains
Gurgling fixtures
Frequent clogs
Sewage odors
Water backing up in multiple fixtures
These symptoms may indicate a larger issue within the sewer lateral.
Schedule Periodic Evaluations
Just because a sewer line is functioning today does not guarantee it will continue performing without problems.
Periodic inspections can help identify developing concerns before they become emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Scope Inspections
What is a sewer scope inspection?
A sewer scope inspection uses a specialized camera to evaluate the interior condition of a home’s underground sewer lateral and identify visible defects.
Is a sewer scope included in a standard home inspection?
No.
A standard home inspection generally does not include a camera evaluation of underground sewer piping.
Are sewer scope inspections worth it?
Many buyers find sewer scope inspections valuable because they can reveal hidden defects that may otherwise go unnoticed until after closing.
Can a brand-new house have sewer problems?
Yes.
New construction homes can experience sewer defects related to installation issues, construction debris, settlement, or damage during construction.
How long does a sewer scope inspection take?
Most sewer scope inspections can be completed in less than an hour, depending on accessibility and system complexity.
What are the most common sewer defects found in Atlanta?
Common findings include:
Root intrusion
Offset joints
Bellies
Construction debris
Cracks
Joint separation
Can tree roots damage sewer lines?
Yes.
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of sewer line damage and blockages.
What is a sewer belly?
A sewer belly is a low section of pipe where water collects because the pipe no longer maintains proper slope.
What does a sewer camera look for?
The camera evaluates:
Cracks
Breaks
Offsets
Bellies
Root intrusion
Debris
Pipe condition
Can a sewer scope detect every defect?
No.
Like any inspection, limitations exist. However, sewer cameras provide significantly more information than visual observation alone.
Should I get a sewer scope on a home less than five years old?
Many inspectors recommend it because installation defects and construction-related issues can occur regardless of age.
What if the sewer scope finds a problem?
Buyers may use the information to:
Request repairs
Negotiate credits
Seek additional evaluations
Make informed purchasing decisions
Does homeowners insurance cover sewer repairs?
Coverage varies significantly by policy. Homeowners should review their insurance documents and consult their insurance provider.
Can sewer problems affect property value?
Potentially.
Significant sewer defects can impact marketability, negotiations, and repair costs.
Should sellers get a sewer scope before listing?
In some situations, yes. Identifying concerns before listing can reduce surprises during the transaction process.
Additional Reading and Resources
The following resources provide additional information regarding sewer systems, wastewater management, home maintenance, and property inspections.
National Association of Sewer Service Companies (NASSCO)
Industry standards and educational resources related to sewer inspection and maintenance.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Wastewater Information
Information regarding wastewater systems and environmental protection.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Septic Systems
Guidance regarding residential wastewater management.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Healthy Water
Information regarding wastewater exposure and public health.
InterNACHI – Home Inspection Standards of Practice
Industry-recognized home inspection standards.
International Code Council
Building code resources related to plumbing and drainage systems.
University of Georgia Extension
Research-based information regarding Georgia soils, construction, and property maintenance.
City of Atlanta Urban Forestry Division
Information regarding Atlanta’s tree canopy and urban forestry initiatives.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Resources for homebuyers and homeowners.
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Homeownership and property purchasing resources.
Why Choose Reynolds Home and Property Solutions?
Choosing the right inspector matters.
At Reynolds Home and Property Solutions, our goal is to provide buyers with the information they need to make informed decisions.
Our inspections include:
Same-day reporting
Thermal imaging included
Client walkthrough included
Approximately four-hour inspection process
Sewer scope video documentation
Atlanta-area expertise
Certified Master Inspector® credentials
InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector qualifications
HUD FHA 203(k) Consultant experience
Most importantly:
We inspect until there isn’t anything left to see.
Whether you’re purchasing a home in Atlanta, Marietta, Roswell, Woodstock, Alpharetta, Kennesaw, Smyrna, Sandy Springs, Decatur, East Cobb, Cherokee County, or North Fulton, we’re here to help.
Conclusion
A sewer scope inspection may not be the most glamorous part of a real estate transaction, but it can be one of the most important.
Because sewer lines are underground, defects often remain hidden until expensive problems occur.
The age of a home does not guarantee the condition of its sewer system.
New construction homes can have sewer defects.
Older homes can have sewer defects.
Even homes that appear to function normally can have hidden issues that only become visible through a camera inspection.
For Atlanta-area buyers, a sewer scope inspection provides valuable information that can help reduce uncertainty and identify potential concerns before closing.
When combined with a comprehensive home inspection, it offers a more complete picture of the property’s condition.
Schedule Your Atlanta Sewer Scope Inspection
If you’re buying a home in:
Atlanta
Marietta
Roswell
Woodstock
Alpharetta
Kennesaw
Smyrna
Sandy Springs
Decatur
East Cobb
Cherokee County
North Fulton
contact Reynolds Home and Property Solutions today.
Our sewer scope inspections include:
✓ Video documentation
✓ Same-day reporting
✓ Thermal imaging included with home inspections
✓ Client walkthrough
✓ Certified Master Inspector® expertise
✓ Local Atlanta market knowledge
✓ Comprehensive inspection services
Before you buy, know what’s happening beneath the surface.
We inspect until there isn’t anything left to see.
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