Key takeaways
- Recorded footage is hard to argue with
- Findings can lead to repairs, credits or a price change
- Severity matters: separate urgent from monitor items
- Quotes from contractors strengthen the request
Start with the severity
Not every finding is a deal-breaker. A collapsed pipe or a crushed line is serious. A little root growth at a joint may be a maintenance item. Know which you have before you ask for anything.
The written summary should rank the findings so you can decide what is worth negotiating.
Get a quote
A contractor quote for the repair gives you a number to negotiate with. Share the footage with one or two contractors, and ask for an estimate to fix just what the camera found.
A specific figure is far stronger than saying the sewer might need work.
The common outcomes
Buyers usually ask for one of three things: the seller repairs the line before closing, the seller gives a credit at closing, or the price is reduced. Your agent can advise on which is best in your market and contract.
If the problem is severe and the seller refuses, walking away may be the right call.
Share the evidence
Send the video and the summary to your agent so they can pass it on. A clear, calm presentation with footage and a quote works better than a surprise.
Keep the recording. It documents the line’s condition at the time of sale.
Quick answers
Should I scope before making an offer?
Usually the scope happens after the contract is signed, inside the inspection period.
Can I ask the seller to scope?
You can, but an independent scope that you commissioned is more reliable for your purposes.
Want a professional look at your own pipe?
Schedule a camera inspection with the form below, or call (615) 952-0844.
