Homeowners increasingly rely on video inspection

Homeowners increasingly rely on video inspection to accurately assess the condition of buried sewer lines and drains. Using a camera inserted into the pipe, technicians capture live footage that reveals blockages, cracks, invasive roots, and shifting joints that may not be visible from the surface.

Why consider a video inspection? It provides a precise diagnosis before any repair work begins, reducing unnecessary digging and guesswork. It’s particularly valuable after repeated backups, slow drainage, or signs of sewer odors, as well as before buying or selling a property where pipe integrity is a concern.

The process is straightforward. A licensed plumber inserts a flexible waterproof camera into the sewer or drain line through a cleanout or access point. The technician guides the camera through the pipe, recording high-resolution footage and live readings of pipe depth, alignment, and condition. In many cases, a diagnostic report and video reel are delivered the same day.

What problems can video inspection reveal? Common findings include mineral buildup and blockages from grease or foreign objects, corrosion or cracks in clay or cast iron pipes, offset joints from ground movement, pipe collapse, and root intrusion that can cause complete blockages if left unchecked.