Why Every Homeowner Should Consider a Sewer Scope Inspection

When it comes to home maintenance, some of the most expensive problems are the ones you never see coming — literally. One of the most overlooked parts of any home’s plumbing system is the sewer line. And while out of sight often means out of mind, a damaged or aging sewer line can lead to major headaches down the road.

That’s why a sewer scope inspection is such a valuable tool.

At Triton Plumbing, we help homeowners across Oakland County and Macomb County identify issues early and avoid costly surprises. From Birmingham to Troy, Bloomfield Hills to Royal Oak, we’ve seen firsthand how sewer scopes save time, money, and stress.

What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection involves inserting a high-resolution camera into your main sewer line. This allows licensed plumbers to get a live video feed of what’s happening beneath your home — identifying any cracks, clogs, intrusions, or deterioration without digging up your yard.

This non-invasive service is especially valuable in older homes, where the original sewer lines may be decades old and vulnerable to damage.

Why Sewer Scope Inspections Matter

Here are some of the most common — and important — reasons to consider scheduling a sewer scope:

1. You're Buying a Home

If you're purchasing a home in cities like Birmingham, Royal Oak, or Bloomfield Hills, don’t skip the sewer scope. While a standard home inspection covers visible systems like plumbing fixtures and appliances, it rarely examines the underground sewer line. If there’s a hidden problem — like a cracked pipe or tree root intrusion — you’ll want to know before closing.

2. You Live in an Older Home

Many homes in Oakland County and Macomb County were built before modern piping standards were established. Materials like clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg (a compressed wood-pulp pipe used in mid-century homes) can degrade over time. A sewer scope lets you assess the condition of these pipes before they cause a major issue.

3. You’ve Had Recurring Drain Issues

Slow drains, backups, or gurgling sounds may indicate something deeper than a clogged sink trap. A sewer scope helps identify whether there's a blockage or break in the main line — information that’s critical to choosing the right repair.

4. You’re Planning Renovations

If you’re remodeling a kitchen, adding bathrooms, or expanding your home, your sewer line may be impacted by the increased load. Before investing in upgrades, it’s a smart move to make sure your sewer line is up to the task.

5. You Want to Prevent Costly Emergencies

Sewer line failures are not only expensive but also disruptive — often requiring excavation of your yard or driveway. A routine sewer scope can reveal small problems early, giving you time to make proactive, affordable repairs.

What Issues Can a Sewer Scope Uncover?

A sewer scope inspection provides critical information about:

• Cracked, corroded, or collapsed pipes

• Tree root intrusion (common in mature neighborhoods like Troy and Bloomfield Hills)

• Pipe misalignment or “bellies” that collect water and debris

• Grease or sludge buildup

• Structural deterioration from age or shifting soil

All of these issues can lead to sewer backups, water damage, and health hazards if left unaddressed.

How Often Should You Get One?

For most homes, we recommend a sewer inspection every 3–5 years. However, if you live in an older home, have experienced frequent plumbing issues, or are considering a property purchase, it may be wise to schedule one sooner.

Areas with older infrastructure — like Royal Oak, Birmingham, and Bloomfield Hills — can especially benefit from regular checks.

Why Homeowners Trust Triton Plumbing

Triton Plumbing is a locally owned and operated business with years of experience serving Oakland County and Macomb County. We believe in honest recommendations, fast response times, and doing the job right the first time.

When you choose Triton, you’re working with a team that treats your home like our own. Learn more about our team and our values.

Schedule Your Sewer Scope Inspection

Don’t wait for a backup to tell you something’s wrong. A sewer scope inspection is an affordable, proactive step every homeowner should consider — especially in Southeast Michigan where aging pipes and shifting soil are common.

Ready to book? Contact us today to schedule your sewer scope. Whether you live in Troy, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, or anywhere in the Metro Detroit area, we’re here to help protect your home from the ground up.