Before You Remodel, Know What’s Beneath the Surface
Remodeling your home can be one of the most exciting investments you make as a property owner. Whether it’s updating a bathroom, expanding a kitchen, or adding an ADU, every renovation promises new comfort, beauty, and value.
But before you start tearing down walls or pouring concrete, there’s one crucial step that too many homeowners overlook—a sewer inspection before remodeling.
In Los Angeles, where homes often sit on decades-old plumbing systems, ignoring your sewer line can lead to hidden problems that surface after construction. That’s why experienced contractors and plumbers in LA always recommend inspecting your sewer line before a major renovation begins.
At The Pine Plumbing, we’ve seen countless remodeling projects delayed or derailed by unseen sewer issues. A quick camera inspection can prevent expensive rework and ensure your remodel is built on a solid foundation.
1. Why Sewer Inspections Are Crucial Before Any Remodel
When contractors begin any home improvement project—especially one involving kitchens, bathrooms, or room additions—they know that plumbing is the lifeline of the home. If your sewer system is compromised, even the most beautiful remodel can quickly turn into a costly disaster.
Hidden Issues Lurking Underground
Los Angeles has some of the oldest plumbing infrastructure in the country. Many homes in neighborhoods like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Mid-City still rely on clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes installed more than 50 years ago. Over time, these pipes can:
- Crack or collapse due to age or shifting soil.
- Be invaded by tree roots searching for water.
- Accumulate buildup that narrows flow and causes blockages.
A sewer camera inspection before your remodel allows professionals to identify these problems before they interfere with your new plumbing layout.
Avoid Tearing Up Fresh Renovations
Imagine spending $80,000 on a new kitchen remodel, only to discover a few months later that your sewer line has collapsed and requires excavation beneath your brand-new tile. That’s a nightmare scenario contractors warn about—and it’s preventable with a quick inspection.
A 30-minute sewer inspection gives you peace of mind knowing that your drains, lines, and main sewer connection are healthy before you seal everything behind walls and flooring.
2. What Happens During a Sewer Inspection Before Remodeling
You might wonder what a sewer inspection actually involves. Unlike traditional methods that required digging up your yard, modern inspections use trenchless camera technology.
Here’s how it works:
- Accessing the Cleanout
The plumber inserts a small, waterproof camera through your home’s main sewer cleanout. - Live Video Feed
The high-resolution camera transmits live footage as it travels through the sewer line, revealing the pipe’s condition in real-time. - Identifying Problems
The camera detects any cracks, corrosion, blockages, or misalignments that could cause problems later. - Documenting Results
You’ll receive a digital recording or video report of your sewer line, complete with expert recommendations.
The process typically takes less than an hour and provides critical information for contractors and homeowners before work begins.
3. How Sewer Problems Can Derail a Remodel
a. Unexpected Costs
If your sewer line fails after remodeling, fixing it often requires breaking through newly finished surfaces—adding thousands to your project cost. Contractors know that plumbing issues discovered after construction can inflate budgets fast.
b. Project Delays
Sewer repairs take time, especially if permits or city inspections are needed. Unforeseen issues can stall your entire remodeling schedule for weeks.
c. Code Violations
If a remodel involves adding new fixtures, such as a bathroom or kitchen sink, local building codes often require confirmation that your main sewer system can handle the extra load. Without a sewer inspection, you risk noncompliance with Los Angeles plumbing regulations.
d. Foundation and Water Damage
A hidden sewer leak under your property can weaken foundations, cause soil movement, and damage new flooring or structures. Early detection through inspection prevents major structural problems later.
4. What Contractors in Los Angeles Know (That Homeowners Often Don’t)
Professional remodeling contractors have learned from experience that sewer lines can make or break a project. That’s why many won’t even start work until a plumbing inspection is complete.
Here’s why contractors rely on The Pine Plumbing’s inspection services:
- Risk Reduction: Prevents unforeseen plumbing failures during construction.
- Cost Control: Ensures accurate budgeting with no surprise repairs mid-project.
- Better Planning: Allows designers and plumbers to map out optimal drain placements.
- Client Confidence: Demonstrates thoroughness and professionalism to the homeowner.
A reputable contractor understands that remodeling without confirming the health of your sewer line is like building on an unstable foundation—it’s just not worth the risk.
5. Types of Remodels That Absolutely Require Sewer Inspections
Not every remodeling project involves plumbing, but many do. The following upgrades almost always require a pre-renovation sewer inspection:
Kitchen Remodels
Installing new dishwashers, sinks, or garbage disposals increases water use and waste flow. If your sewer line is partially blocked, it could quickly lead to backups.
Bathroom Additions
New toilets, tubs, and showers add significant drainage demand. Contractors always confirm sewer capacity before connecting new fixtures.
ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units)
Los Angeles has seen a surge in ADU construction, but many properties have old sewer systems that weren’t designed for multiple dwellings. An inspection ensures proper connection to the main line.
Basement or Garage Conversions
Adding plumbing to lower levels or detached units means tying into existing sewer lines—a process that demands accurate inspection and mapping.
Whole-Home Renovations
When renovating an older home, checking the sewer line should be as routine as electrical or structural inspections.
6. The Benefits of Sewer Inspection Before Remodeling
a. Prevents Future Plumbing Emergencies
Early detection of cracks, corrosion, or clogs means you can address issues proactively rather than after costly renovations.
b. Saves Money Long-Term
A quick camera inspection (often under $300) can save you from thousands in future repair costs or insurance claims.
c. Protects Your New Investment
You’re investing in your home’s beauty and function. Ensuring your plumbing can handle those upgrades protects that investment.
d. Ensures Compliance with City Regulations
Many Los Angeles neighborhoods require proof of proper sewer function before issuing remodeling permits—especially if adding bathrooms or kitchens.
e. Provides Peace of Mind
Knowing your home’s plumbing is in great shape allows you to move forward with your project confidently.
7. Why Sewer Issues Often Go Undetected in LA Homes
Los Angeles properties have unique challenges that make sewer problems easy to miss:
- Clay Soil Shifting: Causes pipes to sag or misalign.
- Mature Trees: Common root intrusion from ficus, eucalyptus, and palm trees.
- Aging Infrastructure: Many mid-century homes haven’t had their sewer lines checked in decades.
- Hidden Leaks: Small leaks underground can persist for years before showing visible signs.
These issues remain invisible until an inspection camera exposes the damage.
8. How The Pine Plumbing Helps Homeowners and Contractors
At The Pine Plumbing, we specialize in pre-remodeling sewer inspections for homeowners, contractors, and real estate professionals across Los Angeles County.
Our Process:
- On-Time Scheduling – We coordinate with your contractor to fit seamlessly into your project timeline.
- HD Camera Equipment – We use high-resolution video technology for precise results.
- Detailed Reports – You’ll receive a clear, visual inspection report with our expert recommendations.
- Honest, Transparent Pricing – No hidden fees. No upselling. Just straightforward professional service.
- Repair Options Available – If problems are found, we offer cost-effective repair and trenchless replacement solutions before your remodel begins.
We’ve helped hundreds of Los Angeles homeowners and contractors avoid headaches through proactive sewer inspection and repair services.
9. Common Problems Found During Pre-Remodel Inspections
Our inspections often uncover hidden issues like:
- Root Intrusion: Tree roots cracking and clogging pipes.
- Pipe Corrosion: Rust or buildup narrowing water flow.
- Offset Joints: Misaligned connections due to soil shifting.
- Collapsed Lines: Crushed or broken sections that need immediate repair.
- Grease and Scale: Accumulated debris restricting flow over time.
Catching these early allows you to plan repairs into your remodeling timeline—avoiding sudden surprises mid-project.
10. What Homeowners Say About Pre-Remodel Sewer Inspections
“We were about to start our kitchen renovation when our contractor suggested a sewer inspection. Thank goodness we did! The Pine Plumbing found a root blockage that would’ve destroyed our new flooring months later. They fixed it quickly and saved us thousands.”
— Marissa G., Los Angeles
“The Pine Plumbing worked seamlessly with our general contractor. The inspection report gave us the confidence to move forward with our home addition.”
— Daniel P., Culver City
These real-world examples highlight how valuable proactive plumbing inspections can be.
11. The Cost vs. Value of Sewer Inspections
Some homeowners hesitate, thinking, “Do I really need this?” The truth is, the cost of a sewer camera inspection before remodeling is minimal compared to the potential damage it prevents.
- Average Inspection Cost: $200–$350
- Average Sewer Line Repair: $2,000–$7,000
- Average Remodel Damage Repair (if sewer fails later): $10,000+
It’s clear: a small investment upfront can save enormous amounts later.
12. Planning a Remodel? Here’s Your Sewer Inspection Checklist
Before your contractor starts demolition, follow this checklist:
✅ Locate your sewer cleanout.
✅ Schedule a camera inspection with The Pine Plumbing.
✅ Review the inspection video and report.
✅ Fix any identified issues before construction.
✅ Verify sewer capacity for added plumbing fixtures.
✅ Keep documentation for your building permit records.
Simple, smart, and cost-effective.
13. Partnering with Contractors and Designers
We regularly collaborate with general contractors, architects, and designers throughout Los Angeles. Our inspections help teams plan with confidence, ensuring all plumbing and drainage align with renovation goals.
If you’re a contractor, partnering with The Pine Plumbing means you can guarantee your clients a smooth, delay-free remodeling experience.
14. Schedule Your Sewer Inspection Before You Build
Don’t let hidden plumbing issues ruin your remodeling dreams. A quick inspection gives you the clarity you need to move forward safely.
📞 Call The Pine Plumbing today to schedule your sewer inspection before remodeling in Los Angeles.
Our experienced technicians will deliver a thorough, HD video report and ensure your plumbing system is ready for the upgrades ahead.
We proudly serve homeowners and contractors across LA—from Santa Monica to Echo Park, Hollywood to Inglewood—with reliable, professional plumbing expertise.
Build with Confidence, Not Guesswork
Remodeling is exciting—but it’s also a major investment.
By performing a sewer inspection before your remodel, you protect that investment, prevent unexpected disasters, and give your contractor the information they need to build with confidence.
At The Pine Plumbing, our goal is simple: to help you build smart, safe, and stress-free.
Before you renovate, let us make sure your home’s foundation—its plumbing system—is ready to support your vision.
