How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection in Newtown Square?

For residents in Newtown Square, PA, we recommend having a sewer line inspection performed every 2-3 years for regular maintenance. Homeowners with older houses, properties bearing large trees close to the sewer line, or homes with indications of drain issues may need yearly inspections. Potential buyers would do well to get even a relatively new house’s sewer line looked at before completing the purchase, so as not be caught by surprise later.

If you’ve never had your sewer line inspected or can’t remember the last time someone took a look at it, perhaps now is the time to take another look. Sewer problems never announce themselves at a convenient time, and in municipalities like Newtown Square and surrounding communities, such as West Chester, Phoenixville, and Media, ageing infrastructure, older houses, and heavy tree coverage make pre-emptive maintenance even more crucial.

Let’s look at the frequency you should get a sewer line inspection and why this is not something that you want to skip on your home maintenance checklist.

Why Sewer Line Inspections Matter in Southeastern PA

Unlike a leaky faucet or problem in the circuitry, issues with your sewer line are usually concealed and hidden until such time as severe damage has occurred. Homes in Newtown Square and neighboring communities were built decades ago with cast-iron or clay pipes, for one. Over time, these materials decompose or become attacked by tree roots.

Regular inspections help you spot:

1. Root intrusion from nearby trees
2. Pipe corrosion or cracking
3. Misaligned or collapsed sections
4. Debris or grease buildup
5. Early signs of backups or slow drainage

And thanks to sewer lateral camera inspection technology, this can all be done non-invasively no need to tear up your yard or driveway.

What few people understand is that sewer line problems seldom begin with an all-out backup. Rather, they accumulate gradually, frequently starting with minor drainage alterations that are easy to overlook. If discovered early, the solution could be as easy as cleaning out the line. Moreover, if it’s caught a little too late, you could be dealing with an emergency excavation/replacement job.

To avoid costly surprises, consider scheduling a professional sewer inspection with Batten to Beam. Our local team in Newtown Square uses advanced camera technology to catch problems early, before they become expensive repairs. Visit to book your inspection today or call (484)-573-7078 for fast local service.

How Often to Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection (Based on Home Type)

1. Standard Recommendation: Every 2-3 Years

For the large majority of newer homes in Newtown Square with no prior plumbing issues, a sewer inspection every two to three years is a good benchmark. It delivers peace of mind, provides predictable maintenance costs and helps to prevent unexpected failures.

2. Older Homes: Every Year

If your home was built before 1980, and even more so if it predates 1950, regular annual inspections would be prudent. Many of those homes have clay or cast-iron pipes, both of which are especially susceptible to decay and cracking. Batten to Beam has examined many homes in Media and Havertown where sewer lines appeared intact from the surface, but had problems below ground.

3. Newer Homes with PVC Pipes: Every 3-5 Years

PVC pipe is very durable and resistant to the problems that plague older materials, but no system is invulnerable to root penetration or debris buildup. If you have a new build or have had the sewer line entirely replaced, you’d get away with just an inspection every three to five years.

4. Homes With Large Trees or Landscaping Over Sewer Lines: Every 2 Years

Trees may be lovely, but their roots crave moisture, and sewer lines are the biggest straw around. For those yards with oak, maple, or other aggressive-root species, scheduling an inspection once every two years can be one way to catch root damage early.

5. Rental Properties or Multi-Generational Homes: Every 1-2 Years

Higher water usage means more strain on your sewer system. Homes with five or more residents or those used as rentals may need more frequent checks simply due to the volume of wastewater processed.

6. Homebuyers: Schedule Before You Close

Home inspections rarely include the sewer line unless you specifically request it. A sewer lateral inspection should be required in every real estate transaction. Nowhere is that more true than towns like West Chester and Broomall, with aging infrastructure. The same applies to homeowners and buyers seeking sewer lateral inspection in Newtown Square, where older sewer lines can hide costly issues. We have seen homebuyers save thousands is by snagging hidden breaks before closing the sale.

Symptoms That Mean You Need an Immediate Inspection

Even if you’re not due for a routine inspection, certain red flags should never be ignored:

1. Toilets backing up when you run water in the sink
2. Foul odors around floor drains, basement sinks, or the yard
3. Gurgling noises from pipes after flushing
4. Patches of bright green grass in your yard, which may indicate a leak
5. Standing water near sewer cleanout access points
6. Multiple slow drains across different fixtures

These issues often mean a blockage or partial collapse in the line. Fast action can prevent a complete failure and much more expensive repair.

How Sewer Inspections Actually Work

Some homeowners fear a sewer inspection means ripping up their lawn. Fortunately, that’s not the case. 

Using modern technology, inspectors conduct a sewer lateral camera inspection by inserting a waterproof camera through your sewer cleanout. The HD video gives you a detailed look at the condition of your line in real time, so you can see problem areas like root intrusion and debris blockages.

You’ll receive:

1. A video file of the inspection
2. A condition summary from the inspector
3. Clear recommendations for cleaning, monitoring, or repair
4. Documentation for insurance or real estate purposes

At Batten to Beam, we often include this service as part of full home inspections or as a standalone request, especially for buyers in areas like Newtown Square, Phoenixville & West Chester, where properties often hide problems underground.

Local Conditions That Increase Inspection Needs

Soil Conditions

Parts of Delaware and Chester County have clay-heavy or shifting soils, which can cause ground movement that impacts pipe alignment or joint seals.

Stormwater Runoff

Heavy rains can lead to frequent soaking of the soil and pressure on underground lines. If your home is at a lower elevation or close to the storm drain, inspections may need to happen more frequently for regular checking on stress-related wear and tear. Historic neighborhoods communities like Ardmore and Lansdowne contain homes constructed before sewer laterals were standardized.

Historic Neighborhoods

Communities like Ardmore and Lansdowne feature homes built before sewer laterals were standardized. Many of these properties still have mixed-material lines, which are more prone to failure.

It’s Not Just Plumbing. It’s Peace of Mind.

Still unsure if now’s the time to inspect? If it’s been more than two years, you’re noticing any drainage issues, or you’re buying a home, schedule a sewer inspection with Batten to Beam today. Our certified team provides honest, thorough assessments across Newtown Square, West Chester, and Phoenixville. Call (484)-573-7078 to book an inspection.

What Happens If You Skip It?

Homeowners who skip inspections often end up paying far more in repairs later. Here’s what could go wrong:

1. Complete sewer backups requiring emergency pumping
2. Yard excavation to replace sections of collapsed pipe
3. Water damage to basement flooring and walls
4. Health hazards due to mold or waste exposure
5. Lost real estate deals when a surprise issue is found during buyer inspections
6. Lower property value due to hidden infrastructure problems

At Batten to Beam, we’ve seen all of these scenarios play out. We’ve helped countless homeowners avoid them with timely inspections.

Final Thoughts: Protect Your Pipes, Protect Your Home

The bottom line? A sewer line inspection is one of the smartest and most cost-effective maintenance moves a homeowner can make. Whether you’re living in a century-old home in Newtown Square or a newer build in Garnet Valley, sewer issues don’t discriminate.

Batten to Beam is your trusted local expert in sewer line inspections, serving Newtown Square, West Chester, Phoenixville, and the greater Delaware County region. Let us help you avoid costly surprises and give you the peace of mind that your home’s plumbing is in top shape.

Call us at (484)-573-7078 to schedule your inspection today.

FAQs

How often should a sewer line be inspected in Newtown Square?
Most homes should have a sewer line inspection every 2 to 3 years. Older homes or homes with nearby trees may need annual inspections.

Do I really need a sewer inspection when buying a home?
Absolutely. Sewer line problems are expensive and hidden from view. A camera inspection before closing can save you from major repair bills later.

How do I know if my sewer line has a problem?
Watch for gurgling drains, foul odors, soggy patches in your yard, or frequent backups, especially if multiple drains are affected.

What is included in a sewer inspection?
You’ll get a video recording of the inside of your pipe, an expert report, and clear recommendations. It’s quick, non-invasive, and often done in under an hour.

What types of pipes are common in Newtown Square homes?
Many older homes have clay or cast iron pipes. Newer homes usually have PVC. The pipe type influences how often you should inspect.

Can tree roots really get into sewer pipes?
Yes, and it’s one of the most common problems we find. Roots infiltrate small cracks or joints and expand over time, causing blockages.

How much does a sewer inspection cost?
Costs vary, but in the Newtown Square area, a typical inspection ranges from $200 to $400. It’s a small investment compared to the cost of sewer repairs.

Will my insurance cover sewer line repairs?
Most homeowners policies exclude sewer line damage unless you’ve added a specific rider. That’s why early detection through inspection is key.