A sewer scope inspection is a camera inspection of your sewer lateral — the same thing by a different name.
The terms sewer scope inspection, sewer camera inspection, pipe camera inspection, and CCTV pipe inspection all refer to the same service: a waterproof camera on a flexible cable run through the sewer line to show its condition from the inside. The terminology varies by region, company, and context.
In real estate contexts, you will most often hear sewer scope. Home inspection companies that offer it as an add-on typically call it a sewer scope or sewer scope inspection. Drain service companies more commonly call it a camera inspection or pipe inspection.
What a sewer scope covers
The camera is typically run from a cleanout or toilet through the sewer lateral — the pipe that runs from the house to the city sewer connection in the street. The scope shows the interior condition of the line from access point to as far as the camera can reach. On a clear, unobstructed line, this is typically the full length of the lateral.
The scope shows: blockages, root intrusion, grease buildup, pipe cracks and deterioration, offset or separated joints, collapsed sections, bellied pipe, and the general condition of the pipe material along its length.
What a sewer scope does not cover
Individual fixture drain lines (the camera goes into the main sewer lateral, not each individual drain). The city sewer main (that is the city’s pipe, not yours). Pipes in sections that are not accessible from the starting access point.
Who provides sewer scope inspections
Home inspection companies sometimes offer it as an add-on. Drain service companies do it as a core service. Plumbing companies may offer it alongside other services.
Regardless of who performs it, you should receive the video footage — not just a written report. The video is the documentation.
Call Sunburst Environmental at 678-799-4389 for same-day service across Metro Atlanta and North Georgia, or request a free estimate online.