Lateral inspection

A sewer lateral is the pipe that connects your home's plumbing to the main public sewer line, usually running from your foundation to the street. It is typically the homeowner's responsibility to maintain and repair.

Lateral lines are the most common source of sewer problems for homeowners. Tree roots, aging pipe materials, and ground movement can all cause damage. A lateral inspection identifies these issues before they cause backups or require emergency repair.

A lateral inspection typically costs $150 to $400. The price varies based on the length of the lateral, accessibility of the cleanout, and whether a full report with video is included.

Get a lateral inspection before buying a home, if you have recurring sewer backups, if mature trees grow near your sewer line, or if your home has older pipe materials like clay or cast iron.