Drain & Sewer
Camera Inspection
A drain or sewer camera inspection uses a waterproof camera mounted on a flexible cable to visually examine the interior of drain and sewer pipes. The camera transmits live video to a monitor above ground, allowing the technician to identify blockages, root intrusions, pipe bellies, cracks, joint separations, and other conditions that cannot be determined from surface observation alone.
Camera inspection is the definitive tool for diagnosing persistent or recurring drain problems, evaluating a sewer line before a home purchase, assessing pipe condition after a major blockage has been cleared, and planning any repair or relining work. The inspection can be recorded for documentation. In conjunction with locating equipment, it can also pinpoint the exact location of a problem in the ground for excavation purposes.
What This Means for You
Camera inspection removes the guesswork from sewer line diagnosis. If you're buying an older home, a camera inspection of the sewer lateral is one of the most valuable due-diligence steps you can take. It costs $150–$400 and can reveal problems worth $5,000–$30,000 to repair — often before you close on the property.
Related Terms
Sewer Line · Lateral Line · Pipe Belly (Sag) · Tree Root Intrusion · Hydro Jetting