Your home’s sewer line is one of those critical components that tends to go unnoticed—until something goes wrong. Hidden underground, it quietly carries wastewater from your home to the main sewer system. But when problems arise, they can quickly turn into costly and disruptive headaches. That’s where a professional sewer line inspection comes in.
At Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating, we help Maryland homeowners and commercial property owners detect issues early with reliable sewer line inspections using advanced technology. If you’ve never had a sewer inspection—or it’s been a while—here’s what you need to know about when and why it matters.
When Should You Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection?
1. Before Buying or Selling a Home
A home inspection doesn’t usually include a detailed check of the sewer line. If you’re buying a home, a separate sewer line inspection can protect you from inheriting a costly issue like tree root intrusion, cracks, or even a collapsed pipe. For sellers, it’s a great way to show prospective buyers that your home is in excellent condition.
2. If You Notice Persistent Drain Issues
Are your drains constantly clogging or slow to empty? Do you hear gurgling noises when you flush the toilet or run water in a sink? These may be signs of a deeper issue in the sewer line. A camera inspection can pinpoint exactly where the blockage is and what’s causing it.
3. After a Severe Weather Event
Heavy rains, flooding, or extreme temperature swings (common in Maryland’s changing seasons) can damage underground pipes. If you’ve recently experienced weather-related disruptions and notice new plumbing issues, an inspection is a smart move.
4. Before Major Renovations
Planning to remodel your kitchen, bathroom, or add square footage? It’s essential to make sure your plumbing infrastructure can handle the extra load. An inspection ensures there are no hidden problems that could be worsened by the renovation.
5. If It’s Been More Than a Few Years
Even if you don’t see any obvious problems, routine sewer inspections every few years can catch early signs of wear and tear before they turn into emergencies.
Why Sewer Line Inspections Are So Important
Prevent Expensive Repairs
Sewer line repairs—especially full replacements—are among the most expensive plumbing services. A timely inspection can help detect small issues like corrosion, minor cracks, or early root invasion, allowing for a cost-effective repair instead of a major excavation.
Avoid Emergency Backups
A clogged or broken sewer line can lead to sewage backing up into your home—something no homeowner ever wants to experience. Regular inspections dramatically reduce the risk of surprise backups and the health hazards they bring.
Support Insurance or Warranty Claims
If something does go wrong, having a documented inspection history can help validate your case with insurance companies or home warranty providers.
Peace of Mind
There’s real value in knowing your plumbing is in good shape. Whether you’re preparing for winter, selling a home, or just want to prevent future problems, an inspection offers peace of mind.
What to Expect from a Sewer Line Inspection
At Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating, we use video camera inspection technology to give you a clear picture—literally—of your sewer line’s condition. We’ll insert a high-definition waterproof camera through an access point to inspect the entire length of your sewer pipe. You’ll get a detailed report of any blockages, damage, or problem areas, and we’ll recommend next steps if repairs are needed.
Schedule Your Sewer Line Inspection Today
Don’t wait until a small issue turns into a big one. Contact Michael Runk Plumbing & Heating to schedule your sewer line inspection and keep your plumbing system in top shape. Our experienced technicians are ready to help homeowners and businesses across Maryland maintain healthy, problem-free sewer systems.
Call now or click here to book your service.