Should I get a sewer camera inspection before buying a 1940s house in Bowness or Altadore?

Absolutely yes – a sewer camera inspection is essential for any 1940s home in Calgary, especially in Bowness and Altadore. These war-time bungalows are 80+ years old, and their original clay tile or cast iron sewer lines are likely at or beyond their expected lifespan.

Why 1940s homes need sewer inspections: Houses built in the 1940s typically have clay tile sewer lines from the house to the street connection, often joined with mortar that deteriorates over time. Cast iron drain lines inside the house are also common from this era and prone to corrosion, especially the horizontal runs under basement slabs. These materials were standard then but have significant longevity issues that become critical after 70-80 years.

Bowness and Altadore specific concerns: Both neighborhoods have mature trees with extensive root systems that infiltrate aging sewer lines seeking moisture. Bowness, being closer to the Bow River, may have additional groundwater infiltration issues. Altadore's established elm and poplar trees are notorious for root intrusion into clay tile joints. The City of Calgary has been systematically replacing old sewer mains in these inner-city communities, but many private service lines from house to street remain original.

What the inspection reveals: A professional sewer camera inspection (typically $300-$500) will show you the exact condition of the line from your house to the city main. Look for root intrusion, pipe bellying (sagging sections), cracks, offset joints, or complete blockages. The inspector should provide video footage and a written report identifying the location and severity of any issues. This gives you concrete information for negotiations or budget planning.

Calgary's clay soil factor: Our expansive bentonite clay soils cause significant ground movement through freeze-thaw cycles and moisture changes. This movement can crack, offset, or crush aging clay tile sewer lines. Many 1940s homes in these neighborhoods have experienced sewer line settlement or breakage due to soil conditions.

Replacement costs and timing: Full sewer line replacement from house to street typically runs $8,000-$15,000 in Calgary, depending on depth, distance, and access challenges. If the inspection reveals minor root intrusion, you might get 5-10 more years with periodic cleaning ($200-$400 annually). Major cracks, bellying, or offset joints mean replacement is imminent – better to know before you buy than discover during your first major backup.

Professional guidance: This isn't a DIY inspection – you need a licensed plumber with proper camera equipment. Many home inspectors include basic sewer scoping, but a dedicated sewer camera inspection by a plumbing contractor provides more detailed analysis. The investment of $300-$500 for the inspection can save you from a $10,000+ surprise repair or give you negotiating power on the purchase price.

Next steps: Schedule the sewer camera inspection during your home inspection period, ideally with a plumber who can also assess the interior plumbing systems. Get the written report and video, and factor any necessary repairs into your purchase decision. For 1940s homes in these established Calgary neighborhoods, it's not a question of if the sewer line will need replacement, but when.

Find licensed plumbers who offer sewer camera inspections in our Calgary Construction Network directory to get this critical assessment done properly.