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April 16, 20262 min read

What Most Home Inspections Miss (And How It Could Cost You Thousands)

A small inspection detail uncovered during a sewer scope could have turned into a $6,000 repair after move-in.

Sewer scope inspection showing cracked sewer line that could lead to costly home repairs

Most home buyers trust the home inspection process, assuming it will catch any major issues before closing.

But not every inspection tells the full story.


The Part of the Inspection Most People Overlook

One of the most overlooked areas during a home inspection is the sewer line.

In a recent situation, I was reviewing a sewer scope inspection video and noticed something didn’t feel complete.

The inspection had stopped about three feet short of the street.

At first glance, everything appeared fine.

But that missing section mattered.


What Happened Next

Instead of moving forward, I asked the inspector to continue the scope all the way out to the street.

And sure enough… that’s when the issue showed up.

👉 And this is exactly the kind of thing most buyers don’t even realize they should be watching for.

Cracks in the sewer line that could have easily turned into a $6,000 repair shortly after moving in.

That’s the kind of surprise that doesn’t show up until after closing.


Why This Happens More Often Than You Think

Many homes, especially older ones, have sewer lines made from clay or other materials.

Over time, they can:

  • Crack

  • Shift

  • Allow root intrusion

If the inspection doesn’t go far enough, these issues can go unnoticed until they become a problem for the new homeowner.

And by then…

It’s no longer a negotiation point.
It’s an expense.


What This Means for Buyers

This is why understanding what to look for during the home buying process matters just as much as finding the right home.

It’s not just about walking into a home and falling in love with it.

It’s about making sure you’re fully informed before making one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make.


Where the Right Guidance Makes the Difference

Most buyers wouldn’t even think to question whether a sewer scope inspection went far enough.

And that’s exactly where having the right guidance matters.

It’s about:

  • Knowing when to ask one more question

  • Taking a closer look when something feels off

  • Recognizing when something doesn’t quite add up

Because small details can lead to big consequences.


Get Clarity Before You Make a Move

If you want to better understand the home buying process, what to look for during inspections, and how to protect yourself before making a move…

👉 https://thedarlingdifference.com/webinar

Because when you understand the process, you don’t just buy a home…

You make a confident decision.

Your clarity coach creating clarity one home at a time.

Deborah Lee Darling is the founder of Find a Darling Home with eXp Realty and serves Southeast Michigan, including Brownstown Charter Township and the Downriver area. Known as the Clarity Coach for Stuck Homeowners, she helps people navigate life transitions such as inherited homes, downsizing, and major housing decisions with confidence and clear next steps.

Deborah Lee Darling

Deborah Lee Darling is the founder of Find a Darling Home with eXp Realty and serves Southeast Michigan, including Brownstown Charter Township and the Downriver area. Known as the Clarity Coach for Stuck Homeowners, she helps people navigate life transitions such as inherited homes, downsizing, and major housing decisions with confidence and clear next steps.

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