Trouble signs to watch for

•  In most cases, homeowners are unaware of existing sewer line problems. However, any of the following   may indicate sewer line damage.
•  Frequent need for drain cleaning
•  Rodent holes near the sewer line
•  Settlement damage to driveways, patios, foundations and retaining walls

Potential causes for sewer line trouble

•  Age of the sewer line pipe is less of a factor than how much the pipe is used.
•  Root intrusion is the most common problem with home sewer lines.
•  Powerful root cutting machines can damage soft pipe materials such as terra-cotta. As a result, they should not be used on a regular basis.

Sewer inspection process

•    Residential sewer line inspectors today insert a camera and light array into the sewer pipe to film the interior of the pipe as it extends out to the public sewer line.
•  Inspections are non-invasive.
•  Some contractors can pinpoint the location of the problem with considerable accuracy.
•  The inspection is usually recorded on videotape for future reference.

Party Lines

•    Some homes share a sewer line with their neighbors, commonly called "party lines."
•  In these cases, homeowners may require the cooperation of their neighbors to inspect and repair the sewer line.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions about Home Inspections.

Shawn Martin

Martin Home Inspection Services

http://www.martininspect.com/