When buyers hear “new construction,” they assume everything is flawless — brand new foundation, pristine framing, fresh mechanical systems, and no hidden surprises. Unfortunately, what’s underground often tells a different story. One of the most overlooked yet most important inspections you can invest in is a sewer scope inspection, and yes… it’s crucial even on a brand-new home.

If you’re purchasing in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex or surrounding areas, skipping the sewer inspection can lead to unexpected repairs, foundation headaches, and massive plumbing bills down the road. Here’s why.

What Is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope inspection uses a high-resolution camera to visually inspect the main sewer line from the house to the city connection or septic tie-in. This allows your inspector to identify:

• Breaks or cracks in the sewer line
• Separated joints
• Improper slope or sagging sections (“bellies”)
• Debris, construction material, or obstructions
• Root intrusion
• Standing water
• Early signs of failure

Think of it as an MRI for your home’s plumbing system — it shows what you can’t see above ground.

“But It’s a New Home… Why Would There Be a Problem?”

We see issues on new construction far more often than people realize. Here’s why sewer problems happen even on brand-new builds:

1️⃣ Construction Damage Happens

Heavy machinery drives over trenches. Workers backfill too quickly. Rocks, debris, and concrete chunks fall into the line. All of this can crack or compress the pipe — before the first flush ever happens.

2️⃣ Settling Soil & Improper Installation

North Texas soil is notorious for movement. If the line isn’t supported correctly or installed at the wrong slope, it can sag or separate once settling begins. Improper pitch leads to recurrent clogs, slow drains, and standing sewage in the line.

3️⃣ Builders Typically Don’t Scope the Line

Most builders do not conduct sewer camera inspections unless there is already a known issue. Their water tests only confirm water flow — not the condition of the pipe.

4️⃣ You May Not Notice Problems… Until It’s Too Late

Some sewer issues don’t show symptoms for months or years. By then, you may be out of warranty — and that turns a builder responsibility into your $3,000–$15,000 headache.

What Can Sewer Repairs Cost in DFW?

Here’s a reality check many buyers aren’t prepared for:

• Clearing a clog: $200–$500
• Isolated pipe repair: $1,500–$4,000
• Major sewer replacement: $6,000–$20,000+
• Tunneling under homes (very common in Texas): $10,000–$40,000+

A sewer scope typically costs only a fraction of that. Spending a few hundred now can save tens of thousands — and a lot of stress — later.

Common New-Construction Sewer Problems We See

Real-world examples from inspections:

• Collapsed lines from heavy equipment pressure
• Bellies holding standing wastewater
• Offset joints causing recurring clogs
• Construction debris left in lines
• Improper slope meaning waste can’t drain correctly
• Lines not connected properly (yes… it happens!)

If your home is built in a rapidly developing community with ongoing construction traffic, risk is even higher.

When Should You Get a Sewer Scope?

We strongly recommend sewer scope inspections for:

✔️ New construction homes
✔️ Homes older than 10–15 years
✔️ Homes with trees near sewer lines
✔️ Any home with unexplained plumbing or drainage issues

For new construction, the best timing is before closing or during the 11 month warranty inspection — while repairs are still the builder’s responsibility.

Your New Home Should Start Problem-Free

Buying a house is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make. A sewer scope is one of the smartest, lowest-cost protections you can add to your inspection. It provides peace of mind, negotiation leverage, and protection from extremely expensive surprises.

Need a Sewer Scope in the Dallas–Fort Worth Area?

If you’re building or buying a home in DFW or surrounding cities, our team performs detailed sewer scope inspections with clear reporting and video documentation so you know exactly what’s happening beneath your home.

Schedule your inspection HERE, ask questions, or learn more — we’re here to help protect your investment.