How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Inspection in New Jersey?
How Often Should You Schedule a Sewer Inspection in New Jersey?
Many New Jersey homeowners forget about their sewer lines until there’s a problem. But just like your HVAC system or roof, your sewer line needs regular attention too. So, how often should you schedule a sewer inspection in New Jersey? The answer depends on a few key factors—but there are general guidelines that can help you stay ahead of costly repairs.
Why Sewer Inspections Are Important
Your sewer line is one of the most critical parts of your home's infrastructure. It carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer system. Over time, pipes can crack, become clogged, or collapse due to tree roots, ground shifting, or general wear and tear.
Scheduling regular inspections helps you:
- Avoid emergency repairs that cost thousands
- Catch problems early before they worsen
- Keep your property value intact
- Ensure safe and sanitary living conditions
How Often Should You Get a Sewer Inspection?
1. For Older Homes (Over 20 Years)
If your home is over 20 years old, you should schedule a sewer inspection every 1-2 years. Older pipes—especially clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg—are more prone to failure.
2. For Newer Homes
Even if your home is new, issues like poor installation or construction debris can still cause problems. We recommend inspecting every 3-5 years, especially if you're noticing slow drains or occasional backups.
3. If You Have Large Trees
Tree roots are a common culprit in New Jersey. If your yard has large trees near the sewer line, annual inspections are wise.
4. Before Buying or Selling a Home
Always schedule a sewer inspection during real estate transactions. It gives both buyers and sellers peace of mind and avoids last-minute surprises.
Signs You Need an Inspection Right Away
Regardless of your schedule, don’t wait if you notice any of these signs:
- Slow-draining sinks or bathtubs
- Frequent backups or gurgling toilets
- Sewage odors in your yard or basement
- Unexplained wet spots on your lawn
If you’re seeing these issues, call NJ Sewer Inspection at 973-798-9066 for a camera inspection ASAP.
How a Sewer Inspection Works
We use high-resolution cameras inserted into your sewer line to capture real-time footage of its condition. Our camera inspections are non-invasive and provide detailed reports of any damage, clogs, or potential issues.
Once we identify a problem, we can recommend trenchless repairs or cleaning, avoiding unnecessary digging.
Recommended Inspection Schedule by Location
Some areas in New Jersey are more prone to sewer line issues due to aging infrastructure and soil conditions. If you're in one of these cities, we recommend annual inspections:
How Much Does a Sewer Inspection Cost?
In New Jersey, the cost for a standard sewer camera inspection ranges from $250 to $500. Learn more in our blog: Cost of Sewer Inspection in NJ.
Can You Wait Until There’s a Problem?
You can—but you shouldn’t. Waiting until there’s a visible issue means the damage has likely worsened and will be much more expensive to fix. Preventative maintenance is always more affordable than emergency repair.
Need Help Scheduling a Sewer Inspection?
If you're not sure when your last inspection was—or if you’ve never had one—reach out to our team at NJ Sewer Inspection. Our experts serve all of North Jersey and nearby areas.
Call 973-798-9066 today or visit one of our location pages like Clifton, Paterson, or Lodi.
Final Thoughts
Regular sewer inspections are one of the smartest things a homeowner in New Jersey can do. Whether you're protecting your investment, planning a renovation, or preparing to sell, don’t skip this essential maintenance step.
Call 973-798-9066 now and schedule your inspection with NJ Sewer Inspection—your trusted local experts.