A standard home inspection may not include a complete camera survey of the private sewer lateral. Buyers should confirm the scope rather than assume the buried line was reviewed.
Ask how far the camera reached
The report should identify the access point, distance, materials, transitions, defects, and whether the municipal connection or septic tank was reached.
Treat limits as findings
A missing cleanout, trap, blockage, or inaccessible route is important information. The inspector should state what could not be seen and what would be needed to complete the survey.
Keep the video
The recording can support negotiation, a repair comparison, and future maintenance planning. Pair it with a written defect map.
Read the pre-purchase sewer inspection guide before scheduling.
