If you’re buying a home in Nashville or anywhere in Middle Tennessee, there’s more to look at than fresh paint and pretty curb appeal. One of the most expensive issues you could miss during the home inspection? Hidden sewer line problems.

Whether you’re eyeing a charming East Nashville bungalow or a brand-new build in Spring Hill, a sewer camera inspection is one of the smartest add-ons you can request during the due diligence period.

What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?

A sewer camera inspection (sometimes called a sewer scope) is exactly what it sounds like: a specialized camera is inserted into the home’s main waste lines to evaluate the condition of the pipes that carry sewage away from the house. These pipes are underground, so problems often go unnoticed until it’s too late.

With this inspection, you can uncover:

• Breaks or cracks in the pipe

• Tree root intrusion (a major issue in Middle TN)

• Clogs or blockages

• Collapsed or deteriorating materials (especially in older homes)

• Construction debris in new builds
  

Why It Matters in Middle Tennessee

Homes in Nashville, Franklin, Murfreesboro, and surrounding areas often sit on soil types that expand and shift, putting pressure on underground plumbing. Combine that with older clay or cast iron pipes, or even brand-new lines improperly installed during rushed construction, and you’ve got the potential for thousands of dollars in unexpected repairs.

In fact, sewer line repairs or full replacements can run $10,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on depth, access, and local utility coordination.

Is a Sewer Scope Worth It?

Absolutely. A general home inspection is already thorough, but it stops at the visible and accessible components. Sewer lines aren’t visible. And yet, they are one of the most vital systems in your home.

By adding a sewer camera inspection, you can:

• Avoid a massive surprise after move-in

• Strengthen your negotiation position

• Make a confident investment backed by clear facts

• Protect your clients if you’re an agent

What Types of Homes Need a Sewer Inspection?

• Older homes (pre-1980s) with clay or cast iron piping
• Heavily wooded lots where tree roots are likely to intrude
• New construction homes, where builders may have rushed installs
• Homes with slow drains or a history of backups

Spoiler: that’s most homes in Middle Tennessee.

Schedule with a Local Expert Who Knows the Area

At DILIGENT, we’ve seen it all, and our sewer scope inspections are designed to catch issues before they become your problem. Our inspectors know Middle Tennessee plumbing materials, soil conditions, and neighborhood patterns. That means we don’t just find issues, we help you understand what they mean.

Combine your home inspection with a sewer camera inspection and move forward with peace of mind.

Schedule with DILIGENT today. We’re built for speed, and ready when you are.