A sewer scope inspection involves running a specialized camera through the main sewer line to check for blockages, damage, or other issues leading to the municipal sewer system.

A septic inspection evaluates the entire septic system, including the tank, leach field, and key system components, to ensure proper function, condition and detect potential failures.

Sewer line issues, such as cracks, tree root intrusion, or blockages, can lead to costly repairs. Since these problems are often hidden underground, a sewer scope inspection helps identify potential issues before you purchase a home, saving you from unexpected expenses.

A failing septic system can lead to health hazards, costly repairs, and even property damage. A septic inspection ensures the system is functioning correctly, education on how to prevent future problems and provides suggestions on improvement all giving you more confidence in your home purchase.

It’s recommended to have a sewer scope inspection performed before purchasing a home and every few years afterward, especially if you experience slow drains, backups, or suspect tree root intrusion.

Septic systems should be inspected each time a hold is being sold and as a general rule of thumb, every three years for a conventional system and annually for alternative systems. Regular inspections help detect potential failures early and prevent expensive repairs.

Signs include slow-draining sinks, gurgling toilets, sewage odors, wet spots in the yard, or backups in the home. If you notice any of these, schedule an inspection immediately.

Yes, all of our inspection partners are licensed through their applicable state licensing board which requires them to carry insurance as well.

It Depends.

There are a lot of complexities to the new laws around New Hampshire’s “protected shoreland” inspections that have recently have changed.

Starting September 1, 2024, buyers of waterfront property with septic systems in the “protected shoreland” will be required to have a professional septic system evaluation conducted by a state-licensed evaluator in advance of the sale. The evaluation will need to be conducted by a state-licensed septic system evaluator or, when applicable, a state-permitted septic system designer.

The “protected shoreland” includes all lands within 250 feet of the reference line of the following types of waterbodies:

• All Lakes and ponds greater than 10 acres in size.

• All 4th order and greater streams and rivers and most designated rivers, including sections less than 4th order.

• All waters subject to the ebb and flow of the tide.

Our inspection partners are happy to help figure out if these apply to your home. Give us a call and we can connect you with them!

Also, here are some helpful links to explore:

• NH Designated River Corridor Interactive Map

• Shoreland Water Quality Protection Act (SWQPA)

• Protected Shoreline FAQ

Yes! - Maine has different laws than the recent changes made in New Hampshire and our septic inspection partners are fully capable of performing your septic inspection.