New Hampshire has many cities and towns that blend history, culture, and modernity. While the State’s picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities make it an attractive place to live, there’s more beneath the surface—literally. Many home’s have private septic systems, while some larger communities have town sewers, also known as city sewer systems, community sewer systems, or municipal sewer systems. Having a municipal sewer does not mean the homeowner does not have any responsibility for their wastewater. In this blog, we’ll explore the significance of municipal sewer scopes in Southern NH, and how they contribute to the well-being of the community. Do you need a sewer scope as part of your home inspection?

Sewer Line/Sewer Lateral. This is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Understanding Municipal Sewer Scopes:

Municipal sewer scopes involve the inspection and assessment of the sewer lateral (sewer line), which include pipes, drains, and related infrastructure that connects your home to the city sewer line. Municipal public works departments, in collaboration with specialized professionals, conducts regular sewer scopes to identify potential issues, assess the condition of pipes, and plan necessary maintenance or repairs.

The Importance of Regular Inspections: Preventing Blockages and Backups.
New Hampshire experiences diverse weather conditions throughout the year, from harsh winters to humid summers. These fluctuations can take a toll on a sewer system (the sewer lateral) connecting your home to the city sewer system. The sewer lateral is the responsibility of the homeowner. Concerns may include blockages caused by debris, tree roots, or broken, damaged and/or deteriorating pipes. Regular sewer scopes help identify and address these issues before they escalate, preventing backups and overflows that could impact both residents and the environment.

Accessing the sewer line from the vent on the roof.

Sewer scopes are the unsung heroes that keep New Hampshire’s underground waste management network running smoothly. Invest in regular inspections and maintenance to avoid costly clean-up and repairs. Talk to your friendly neighborhood home inspector about performing a sewer scope inspections during your home inspection.

Root Intrusion (Image Courtesy of Straight Edge Home Inspection)