If you are asking what type of sewer line do I have, you are already ahead of many homeowners. Different sewer materials deteriorate in different ways, and problems often develop underground long before symptoms appear inside the home.
Knowing your sewer line type helps you:
- Anticipate material-specific failures
- Schedule appropriate inspections and maintenance
- Avoid unnecessary chemical or mechanical damage
- Budget for future repairs or replacement
- Reduce surprises during real estate transactions
How to Identify What Type of Sewer Line You Have
1. Check the Age of Your Home
Homes built before the 1970s commonly contain clay or cast iron sewer lines, while newer homes typically use PVC or ABS.
2. Review Property Records
Previous inspection reports, plumbing permits, and municipal records may list sewer materials.
3. Inspect Accessible Piping
Exposed piping in basements, crawl spaces, or near cleanouts may provide visual clues based on color and texture.
How Honest Home Inspections NJ Can Help
At Honest Home Inspections NJ, LLC, we regularly help homeowners, buyers, and sellers answer the question what type of sewer line do I have using professional sewer camera inspections.
New Jersey homes often contain older sewer infrastructure, and visual inspection alone cannot determine pipe material or condition. Our sewer camera inspections allow us to:
- Identify sewer pipe material with certainty
- Evaluate overall pipe condition
- Locate cracks, offsets, root intrusion, or corrosion
- Document findings with video for buyer or seller review
This service is especially valuable during home purchases, pre-listing inspections, or when unexplained plumbing issues are present.
Learn more about our sewer camera inspection services and how they protect your investment.
When a Sewer Camera Inspection Is the Best Option
If you are experiencing slow drains, recurring clogs, or preparing to buy or sell a home, a sewer camera inspection is often the fastest and most reliable way to determine what type of sewer line you have.
A professional inspection not only identifies pipe material but also reveals hidden defects that could lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Understanding your sewer line type empowers you to make informed decisions, protect your home, and avoid unexpected failures.
Maintenance Tips by Sewer Line Material
- Clay Pipes: Schedule periodic inspections and monitor for root intrusion.
- Cast Iron Pipes: Descaling can help restore flow and extend service life.
- PVC & ABS Pipes: Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners and inspect after ground movement.
