Plumbing Archives

Sewer scopes: Insurance Won’t Foot the Bill for Sewer Laterals

April 1, 2024/0 Comments/in Plumbing

How do a sewer scope inspection, sewer laterals, and your insurance relate? Have you ever stopped to think about what’s going on beneath your home’s surface? Most of us don’t until something goes wrong. Picture this: you’ve just moved into your dream home, and everything seems perfect, until you start noticing strange smells or weird noises coming from your basement. What could it be? Well, it might just be your sewer lateral causing trouble.

Understanding Sewer Laterals

But hold on, what exactly is a sewer lateral? Let me break it down for you. The sewer lateral is the underground pipe that connects your home’s plumbing system to the main sewer line. It’s responsible for carrying all the wastewater from your sinks, toilets, and showers away from your home. Now, imagine if this crucial pipe were to develop a problem, like a crack or a blockage. Not only would it cause a mess, but it could also end up costing you a pretty penny to fix.

The Importance of Sewer Scope Inspections

Here’s where sewer scope inspections come into play. These inspections involve using a specialized camera to inspect the inside of your sewer lateral. By doing so, inspectors can identify any potential issues, such as cracks, blockages, or tree root intrusions, that could lead to costly repairs down the line. It’s like giving your sewer system a check-up to make sure everything is running smoothly.

Why Sewer Scope Inspections matter for Insurance

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I bother with a sewer scope inspection?” Well, let me tell you, it’s all about saving yourself from future headaches and hefty bills. You see, many insurance companies won’t cover claims related to sewer line damage if the issue is pre-existing. That means if you discover a problem with your sewer lateral after moving into your new home, you could be left footing the bill for repairs.

Real-life Example

But fear not, because there’s a simple solution: schedule a sewer scope inspection before closing the deal on your new home. It’s a small investment that could save you thousands of dollars in the long run. Just ask Sarah and John, a couple who recently purchased their first home. They were about to close the deal when they decided to have a sewer scope inspection done. And boy, are they glad they did! The inspection revealed a crack in the sewer lateral that would have cost them a fortune to fix.

Choose Realm Inspections

So, whether you’re buying a new home or you’ve been in your current home for years, it’s never too late to invest in a sewer scope inspection. And when it comes to choosing an inspection company, look no further than Realm Inspections. Their team of experienced inspectors specializes in comprehensive sewer scope inspections that leave no stone unturned.

Protect yourself today

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule your sewer scope inspection with Realm Inspections today and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your sewer lines are in tip-top shape. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

In conclusion, don’t overlook the importance of sewer scope inspections when it comes to your home’s sewer lateral and your insurance provider. It’s a small investment that can save you big bucks in the long run. So, whether you’re buying a new home or you’re a seasoned homeowner, take proactive steps to safeguard your sewer lines with a sewer scope inspection from Realm Inspections.

Ready to schedule your inspection? Contact Realm Inspections today and take the first step towards protecting your investment. Don’t wait until it’s too late—act now and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your sewer lines are in good hands. Your future self will thank you for it.

Check out our other Sewer Scope Inspection articles: Sewer Scope Inspections for New Construction Homes, Unlocking the Secrets Beneath the Power of Sewer Scope Inspections

Sewer Scope Inspections: Essential for New Construction Homes

March 25, 2024/0 Comments/in Plumbing

In the excitement of purchasing a brand-new home, many buyers overlook an essential step in the inspection process: the sewer scope inspection. Some might argue that since it’s a new construction, there’s no need to inspect the sewer lines. However, this assumption could lead to costly and inconvenient surprises down the line. In this blog post, we’ll explore why sewer scope inspections are crucial, even for new homes, and why you should consider hiring a reputable company like Realm Inspections for the job.

Understanding Sewer Scope Inspections

Before diving into why these inspections matter for new construction homes, let’s first understand what a sewer scope inspection entails. Essentially, it involves inserting a specialized camera into the sewer lines to assess their condition and identify any potential issues such as blockages, leaks, or damage.

Why New Homes Need Sewer Scope Inspections

Construction Mishaps: While new homes are built to modern standards, construction mishaps can still occur. It’s not uncommon for debris, construction materials, or even equipment to find their way into the sewer lines during the building process. A sewer scope inspection can catch these issues early on, saving you from future headaches.
Quality Control: Despite rigorous quality control measures, mistakes can happen during construction. A misaligned pipe, improper connections, or insufficient slope can all lead to sewer line problems. A thorough inspection can uncover these issues before they escalate into major repairs.
Tree Root Intrusion: Even in new neighborhoods, tree roots can wreak havoc on sewer lines. If trees were present on the property before construction, their roots may have already started infiltrating the sewer system. Identifying root intrusion early can prevent costly repairs and sewer backups.
Warranty Protection: Many new homes come with warranties, but these typically cover structural defects rather than issues with the sewer system. By conducting a sewer scope inspection before your warranty expires, you can address any problems while they’re still covered, potentially saving you thousands of dollars in repair costs.

Why Choose Realm Inspections

When it comes to sewer scope inspections for new construction homes, choosing the right inspection company is crucial. Realm Inspections stands out for several reasons:

Expertise: With years of experience in the industry, Realm Inspections has the expertise to conduct thorough sewer scope inspections. Their team of trained professionals knows what to look for and how to interpret the findings accurately.
State-of-the-Art Technology: Realm Inspections utilizes state-of-the-art camera equipment to inspect sewer lines with precision. Their high-definition cameras can detect even the smallest issues, ensuring nothing goes unnoticed.
Comprehensive Reports: After the inspection, Realm Inspections provides comprehensive reports detailing their findings. These reports are easy to understand and include recommendations for any necessary repairs or maintenance.
Customer Satisfaction: Customer satisfaction is a top priority for Realm Inspections. They strive to provide exceptional service, going above and beyond to ensure their clients have peace of mind about their sewer systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it may seem unnecessary to inspect the sewer lines of a newly constructed home, doing so can save you from costly repairs and headaches in the future. Issues with sewer systems can arise regardless of a home’s age, making sewer scope inspections a valuable investment for any homeowner. By choosing a reputable inspection company like Realm Inspections, you can rest assured that your new home is free from sewer-related problems. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a sewer scope inspection today and protect your investment for years to come.

Ready to schedule a sewer scope inspection for your new construction home? Contact Realm Inspections today to book your appointment and ensure peace of mind for your investment. Don’t leave your sewer system to chance—trust the experts at Realm Inspections to keep your home running smoothly.

The Secrets Beneath: The Power of Sewer Camera Inspections

March 18, 2024/0 Comments/in Plumbing

Ever wondered what’s beneath your property? Don’t forget crucial systems like sewer lines. Enter sewer camera inspections—simple yet potent. They uncover issues and bring peace. Let’s explore the perks and why they’re a savvy homeowner investment.

What’s a Sewer Camera Inspection?

Before diving into the benefits, let’s clarify what exactly a sewer scope inspection entails. Simply put, it’s a non-invasive procedure where a specialized camera is inserted into your sewer lines to assess their condition. This camera provides real-time footage, allowing inspectors to identify any blockages, leaks, or structural issues that may be lurking beneath the surface.

Now that we understand the basics, let’s delve into the numerous advantages of scheduling a sewer scope inspection for your property.

Advantages of Sewer Camera Inspections:

Early Detection Saves Money: Spot problems before they escalate, saving on costly repairs.
Preventive Maintenance: Like car check-ups, it prevents disasters and keeps everything smooth.
Peace of Mind: Know your home’s systems are sound, relax without worrying about surprises.
Accurate Diagnosis: Say goodbye to invasive and costly methods; get precise info on your pipes.
Property Value: Impress buyers with documentation of proactive property maintenance.
Environmental Benefits: Minimize environmental risks and contribute to a healthier planet.

Getting Started:

Ready to safeguard your property? Turn to Realm Inspections, your trusted partner in property assessment and maintenance. Our team specializes in comprehensive sewer scope inspections, providing detailed insights and recommendations for repairs or maintenance.

Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule your sewer camera inspection with Realm Inspections today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home’s systems are in good hands.

In conclusion

Sewer camera inspections offer homeowners early issue detection, preventive maintenance, and peace of mind. Invest in your property’s health with Realm Inspections. Don’t let hidden sewer line problems become costly disasters—act now and schedule your sewer scope inspection. With Realm Inspections, you’re taking proactive steps to protect your property investment and ensure its long-term value.

Septic Systems: What You Need to Know

April 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Plumbing

Do you have a septic system at your home? If so, you might be wondering about how to keep it in good working order. In this article, we will discuss septic system types and maintenance, along with how to avoid costly replacements and repair costs.

The three most common types

There are three main types of septic systems:

Gravity systems,
Pressure systems, and
Mound systems.

A gravity (conventional) system is the most basic and the most common type. Wastewater flows from your house into a tank and then into a drain field. Gravity systems use gravity to move wastewater from tanks to drain fields, whereas pressure systems use pumps to move the wastewater to the drain field located at a higher elevation than the tanks. A mound system can be either gravity or pressure based and is used when the soil isn’t suitable for a drain field. It involves building a raised area to contain the tank and drain field.

Maintaining your system

To maintain your septic system and avoid costly repairs or replacements, you should regularly check the tank and drain field for any signs of damage or leaks. Surfacing wastewater in your yard is a clear indication of failure. It’s also a level 5 biohazard. If you have kids or pets that play in the yard, you need to get this taken care of immediately.

Do’s

Pump it regularly. 2 to 3 years is recommended depending on the size of the household and usage. Expect to spend anywhere from $300 to $400. Avoid using franchises or national chains; their business model is to upsell you on all kinds of non-essentials. Mom and Pop shops are the way to go.
Clean the filter every 6 months. A clogged filter is a regular thing and results in backups into the home. It’s found in the outlet of the septic tank. Open it up, take it out, hose it off, and reinstall it.
Use the right toilet paper. In the realm of ultimate life decisions, few put much thought into their preferred TP. Check out this video from Drain Help showcasing the best TP for your comfort and septic.

Don’ts

Another important aspect of septic system maintenance is to avoid the following.

Flushing non-biodegradable items:
- Flushable wipes. Sure they say “flushable”… because, well, you can certainly flush them down the toilet. But after that, they just sit in your tank and never break down. It’s pure marketing hype.
- Feminine products. Ladies, we know it’s gross, but do not put these down your toilet. My wife has a specific wastebasket with a lid for these.
Dumping cooking grease. Have you heard of “fatbergs“? Cooking grease doesn’t just go away. It lines and clogs the inner walls of your drain pipes and also disrupts the biology in your septic tank.
Poisoning the biome. The heart of the septic system is the anaerobic or aerobic biome (depending on the system). The microbes within are responsible for breaking down the waste. Avoid dumping:
- Paint
- Harsh chemicals (bleach, ammonia, etc.)
- Septic Additives. A properly maintained system has no need for off-the-shelf additives or treatments. Most times these products do more harm than good.
Overloading the system. Conserving water can also help reduce the amount of wastewater your system has to process. Taking a 45-minute shower and running multiple back-to-back loads of laundry in a day should be avoided.

Repairs and potential replacement costs

When it comes to septic system repairs or replacements, the costs can vary greatly depending on the type of system you have and the extent of the repairs needed. A simple repair might only cost a few hundred dollars, moderate repairs can be several thousand dollars upwards of $5000 or more, while a complete replacement of a septic system can cost tens of thousands of dollars, ranging anywhere from $15,000 to $20,000.

In conclusion, knowing about septic system maintenance and types is essential. By becoming a septic system maintenance pro and taking care of your system now, you can prevent more costly problems in the future. For more information, reference the EPA’s article How to Care for Your Septic System.

Get your system inspected!

Has it been a while since you even thought about your septic system? Are you curious as to what condition it’s in? Give Realm Inspections a call. We will come out and inspect the system for you. Schedule today Schedule Now! Its advised to have your system inspected once every 4 to 5 years.

Polybutylene (PB) Plumbing Pipe

June 24, 2021/0 Comments/in Plumbing

Polybutylene (PB) was a plastic manufactured between 1978 and mid-1995 for piping in home plumbing systems. It was inexpensive and offered plenty of advantages over other materials, such as flexibility, ease of installation, resistance to freezing. Pipes made from polybutylene were installed in up to 10 million homes in the United States during that period. Despite its strengths, production was ceased in mid-1996 after scores of allegations surfaced claiming that polybutylene pipes were rupturing and causing property damage. In the homes containing this material, homeowners must either pay to have the pipes replaced or risk a potentially expensive plumbing failure.

How Does Polybutylene Fail?

The University of Illinois at Chicago published two studies that have shown that disinfectants can react negatively with polybutylene. That reaction can cause it to flake apart at any location within the PB piping system. Minor fractures can deepen over time and eventually work their way to the pipe’s exterior, allowing water to escape. Some manufacturers, however, claim that the majority of leaks occur at joints and unions. Improperly installed unions are where a leak would likely appear. Despite this contention, class-action lawsuits filed against PB manufacturers have successfully resulted in payouts to homeowners reaching $1 billion.

Polybutylene Pipes Should Be Replaced

Although no regulations require replacing polybutylene piping with other material, many plumbers recommend doing this for several thousand dollars. PB pipes installed behind sheetrock can leak unnoticed for long periods and cause mold and water damage. Leaking can happen without warning and can result in flooding and severe damage to a home’s interior if it is not immediately stopped. InterNACHI believes it is far cheaper to replace polybutylene pipes before they fail and release their contents onto floors, appliances, and furniture. They can also reduce a home’s value or prolong its time on the market. Homeowners might face higher insurance premiums or be denied coverage entirely. For homeowners concerned about this problem and wish to replace the PB piping in their home with copper or other material, companies specialize in this type of work.

Identifying Polybutylene

An inspector can use the following tips to identify polybutylene plumbing. Polybutylene pipes are:

usually stamped with the code “PB2110.”
flexible and sometimes curved, unlike rigid piping materials such as copper
not used for waste, drain, or vent piping
Most commonly grey in color, but they can also be white, silver, black or blue. Blue PB is used primarily outdoors and should only be used to carry cold water. Inspectors should know that black or white pipes might not be polybutylene (they might be polyethylene or PVC, respectively). Also, PB color is somewhat region-dependant. For instance, experienced home inspectors in California might never come across grey PB, while it is quite common elsewhere.
Piping is ½” to 1″ in diameter.

Polybutylene pipes can be in a home’s interior or exterior in any of the following locations:

Interior:

protruding from walls to feed sinks and toilets;
running across the ceiling in unfinished basements;
near the water heater.

Exterior:

entering the home through the basement wall;
at the water meter;
at the main water shut-off valve.

Note:

Home inspectors are not required to note the presence of polybutylene, nor should tests for weaknesses be performed. Any deterioration of polybutylene pipes happens from within and cannot be detected without turning off the water and dismantling the pipe, which is far beyond the standards of practice of home inspection.
Inspectors should check an entire pipe for PB, not just a portion of it. Some copper piping systems have been found to use PB at junctures. A typical example of this union is PB pipe connecting with copper “stub outs” that feed bathroom fixtures.

Other piping materials not to be confused with PB:

PEX: Cross-linked polyethylene is common in radiant-heating systems. PEX can be black, blue, or red, is more easily coiled, and more flexible than PB. It can also withstand higher temperatures than polyethylene.
PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride is a popular building material commonly used in residential plumbing. CPVC is derived from PVC and is also used in plumbing. Both appear white or off-white and can be flexible or rigid.
Polyethylene: This material is flexible and black.
Copper: Copper is a metal that should never be confused with PB.

If in doubt, contact a licensed plumber to determine whether or not a pipe is made from PB.