Sewer Scope

Damage to sewer lines can be devastating to a home, causing both health and structural issues. Not always are these issues noticeable to the simple eye. Fortunately, homeowners and buyers can be proactive by having a sewer scope inspection. A trained and Licensed Plumber will examine the sewer line using specialized camera equipment to identify issues. They will also provide an inspection report with findings and recommendations.

A sewer scope inspection uses a video attached to a snake-like cable to examine the home’s sewer line. This privately-owned pipeline leads from the house to the publicly owned main sewer line or septic tank.  Sewer scope inspection can reveal damage to the pipes, blockages, and other problems. It also can spot potential problem areas before they develop into serious issues or hazards. After the inspection, If an issue is identified clients will receive a report with findings and recommendations. This allows homeowners, home buyers, and home sellers to act before extensive damage, health issues, or expensive repairs.

Causes of Sewer Line Issues

  • Roots: This is the most common issue for sewer line blockage. Fast growing tree roots find their way in through the smallest cracks to feed off water and nutrients within sewer pipes. Having regular sewer scope inspections can help identify signs of root damage early and save on more expensive repairs down the line.
  • Settling: Sewer lines that are located in an unsupportive or poorly built trench can begin to sag over time. This creates a spot called a belly where sewage can build up and create blockages.
  • Ground shifting: Naturally occurring events such as excavating or seismic activity can cause the ground to shift. This can result in misaligning sewer lines, no matter how well they were first laid.
  • Inferior pipe materials: You will often find pipe clay or concrete pipes in older homes. These materials are much more susceptible to issues than plastic pipes used in newer homes. A sewer scope inspection can spot inferior pipe materials and raise concerns for future issues.
  • Poor installation: Unfortunately, sometimes sewer lines are poorly installed. Improperly fitted connections and severe angles along the pipes are among some of the most common issues. If your home sewer line is poorly installed, it’s important to identify this and make repairs as soon as possible.

 

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Radon Testing

Radon is the 2nd leading cause of lung cancer in the US. Make sure you and your family are protected by getting your property inspected.

Why Are Radon Tests Important? Understanding The Benefits

The biggest benefit of radon testing is peace of mind. Radon has no smell, taste, or color, and beyond contributing to the development of lung cancer, radon exposure has no symptoms that can be identified by a doctor. That means a radon test is the only way to make sure your home has a safe level of radon.

Radon tests can also save you money if you’re trying to sell your home, because you can provide information about radon levels to potential buyers, and ensure you meet local codes related to radon compliance. The EPA also recommends that you test for radon when buying a home. That way, if high levels of radon are detected, you can request that the home seller install mitigation features, or you can back out of the purchase by utilizing your home inspection contingency.

No matter the area, age or style of home, radon can be found, meaning every home should have regular radon tests scheduled. Keep yourself, family and guests safe from this cancer-causing gas with a radon test from Blue Guardian Home Inspections. Call to schedule today.

Read more about Radon and its health effects on EPA.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

How does radon enter?

As a gas, radon can enter any home through cracks, holes or any other opening in your foundation.

Should I test the home I’m buying?

The EPA recommends that all homes be tested for radon. Testing during the inspection process can tell you whether remediation steps are warranted.

How long does the test take?

Radon testing takes 48 hours. We use state of the art electronic equipment. Results and a full written report are emailed to you within a few hours after completion of the test.

How often should I test my home for radon?

The EPA recommends that a home be tested every two years. Homes settle and cracks in the foundation can open up.

What if the results come back high?

If the results come back over 4.0 picocuries (pCi/L), the home should be mitigated by a licensed radon mitigation company. Thankfully we can discuss this process with you and recommend some local mitigation companies.

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