How Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Work?
A sewer camera inspection involves inserting a flexible rod with a high-definition, waterproof video camera at its tip into a sewer cleanout or access point. As the technician pushes the rod down the line, a bright LED ring illuminates the pipe's interior, transmitting live video footage to a high-contrast monitor above ground.
The technician can see every offset joint, hair crack, tree root entry point, and grease blockage. Modern inspection cameras also include built-in transmitters that emit a radio signal. If we locate a collapsed pipe, we use a receiver locator above ground to mark the exact spot and depth of the damage, avoiding unnecessary digging.
Key Problems a Camera Inspection Reveals:
- Root Intrusion: Fine tree roots enter through joints and expand, forming massive root balls that catch waste.
- Pipe Bellies: Sagging sections of pipe where water pools, causing paper and solids to collect and clog the line.
- Cracks & Collapses: Worn-out clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes structurally failing under soil weight.
- Foreign Objects: Finding keys, toys, flushable wipes, or grease deposits causing persistent blockages.
When Should You Get an Inspection?
We recommend a camera inspection if you experience recurring backups in multiple drains, are planning a bathroom remodel, or are purchasing a new home. A home inspection rarely checks the main sewer lateral, so scheduling a separate sewer camera inspection is crucial before finalizing a home purchase.