Unexpected plumbing problems—especially those hidden underground—can cause immediate stress and long-term property damage. Issues like unexplained odors, slow drains, or the risk of sewage backup disrupt daily life while threatening the integrity of your home. That’s why a proactive approach to sewer line maintenance, starting with routine inspections, is vital for every homeowner. At Smith's Plumbing Services, we believe that knowledge and prevention are the best defenses against costly repairs.
Why Sewer Inspections Are Crucial
Sewer inspections aren’t just routine maintenance—they serve as essential protection for your home. Aging pipes, shifting soil, heavy rainfall, and invasive tree roots are just a few of the factors that put underground plumbing at risk. Many homes still rely on older materials such as clay or cast iron, which are more prone to cracking, corrosion, or collapse over time.
Weather also plays a role. Freezing temperatures, drought, or heavy rains can all shift the ground around your sewer line, creating gaps or misalignments. This allows roots, debris, or water intrusion to compromise the system. Even nearby construction and normal foundation settling can put pressure on pipes.
Because of these risks, regular sewer inspections aren’t just preventative—they’re an investment in your home’s future. Especially for homes 20 years or older, inspections reduce the chance of sudden emergencies and help preserve your property’s long-term health.
What Are the Warning Signs That Signal You Need a Sewer Inspection?
Sewer problems usually announce themselves through a variety of symptoms—many of which are easily overlooked at first. Common warning signs include multiple slow drains throughout the house, standing water in the yard, or backups that affect more than one fixture at a time.
Another critical indicator is the presence of sewage odors indoors or outdoors. Persistent foul smells often signal a compromised line that should not be ignored. You might also notice unexplained wet spots or patches of overly green grass in your yard, which may indicate a leak underground.
Finally, an increase in pests such as rodents or insects can point to sewer line leaks attracting unwanted activity. Noticing these signs—and acting quickly by scheduling an inspection—helps safeguard your property from more serious and expensive repairs.
How Regular Sewer Inspections Prevent Emergency Plumbing Repairs
Most major sewer disasters develop gradually, giving homeowners an opportunity to catch problems early—if they know what to look for. Regular inspections provide a detailed picture of your system’s health, revealing concerns like root intrusion, cracks, or restricted flow long before they turn into emergencies. With a video camera inspection, these issues can be spotted and addressed before they escalate.
Emergency plumbing repairs often involve excavation, pipe replacement, property restoration, and lost landscaping, all of which can be costly. By contrast, inspections are cost-effective, minimally invasive, and allow for smaller, targeted repairs. Preventive action is always less stressful than responding to a crisis.
Some problems a sewer inspection can catch early include:
- Root growth that threatens to block or break pipes
- Small leaks that allow soil or water entry
- Early corrosion or scale buildup inside pipes
What Happens During a Professional Sewer Inspection?
A professional sewer inspection is designed to be thorough and informative. At Smith's Plumbing Services, we begin by accessing your main sewer line through a cleanout or another entry point. A specialized waterproof camera is then inserted into the pipe, giving a live view of the entire system. This allows us to spot obstructions, root intrusion, cracks, buildup, or misaligned sections.
During the inspection, any issues are carefully located and recorded. Homeowners can view the footage in real time, ask questions, and fully understand what’s happening in their system.
Upon completion, we provide:
- A digital copy of the inspection video or photos
- A written report outlining concerns and their locations
- Personalized recommendations for repairs or preventative maintenance
How Often Should Homes Have Sewer Inspections?
There’s no single answer for how often sewer inspections should be performed—it depends on the age of your home, the materials of your pipes, and environmental conditions. For most households, inspections every two years are recommended.
Certain circumstances may call for annual inspections, such as homes with older plumbing, mature trees nearby, recent renovations, or history of recurring clogs. It’s also a good idea to schedule an inspection after severe weather events that may cause soil shifts or flooding.
Staying proactive not only helps prevent costly repairs but also provides documentation that can be valuable for insurance claims or real estate transactions.
What Are the Most Common Sewer Issues?
Some of the most frequent problems uncovered during inspections include:
- Root intrusion – Roots enter through small cracks or joints, eventually blocking or breaking the pipe.
- Pipe shifting or misalignment – Soil movement or ground settling can force pipes apart, creating blockages or leaks.
- Corrosion and buildup – Older metal pipes are prone to rust, while mineral scale or grease buildup narrows the flow of wastewater.
Regular inspections help identify these issues before they escalate into costly emergencies.
How Sewer Inspections Help Preserve & Boost Your Home’s Value
A well-maintained sewer system not only prevents emergencies but also adds value to your home. Documentation of inspections shows buyers and appraisers that the property has been responsibly cared for, which can speed up sales and increase confidence in the home’s condition.
On the other hand, undiscovered sewer problems can derail real estate transactions, leading to delays or unexpected repair requests. By keeping up with inspections, homeowners avoid last-minute surprises and protect their property’s long-term value.
What Sets Smith's Plumbing Services Sewer Inspections Apart
At Smith's Plumbing Services, we are committed to providing thorough, transparent, and reliable sewer inspections. We use advanced video technology, provide clear reports, and explain every step of the process so homeowners are fully informed.
Our team offers upfront pricing, emergency availability, and financing options to make inspections and repairs accessible. With every service, our goal is to provide clarity, peace of mind, and long-term protection for your home.
Steps to Take If Sewer Issues Are Detected During an Inspection
If an inspection reveals a problem, there’s no need to panic. Depending on the issue, solutions may include hydro-jetting, root cutting, pipe lining, or trenchless repair methods that minimize disruption to your yard. Severe cases may require section replacement, but options are always explained clearly with transparent pricing and realistic timelines.
Our team works closely with you throughout the process, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence to make the best decision for your home.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a Sewer Inspection Company
Before choosing a sewer inspection provider, ask these important questions:
- Are they licensed and insured?
- Do they use high-definition video cameras and provide copies of inspection footage?
- Is pricing upfront and clearly explained?
- Do they offer emergency availability and flexible scheduling?
- Can they provide references from satisfied clients?
Asking the right questions ensures you hire a company that values transparency, professionalism, and customer care.
Take the Next Step Toward a Protected Home with Sewer Inspections
Staying ahead of sewer line issues is one of the most effective ways to protect both your property and your peace of mind. At Smith's Plumbing Services, we’re committed to making inspections straightforward, informative, and stress-free. Whether you’re noticing warning signs, preparing to sell your home, or simply want reassurance, our professional sewer inspection services give you the knowledge and confidence to move forward.
If you’re ready to schedule a comprehensive sewer inspection or want to learn more about how we can help protect your property, contact our friendly, knowledgeable team at (901) 290-1110. We’re always here to answer your questions, provide upfront pricing, and deliver the local service Memphis families trust. Protect your investment—and your comfort—by partnering with a team that values your home as much as you do.