Go Beneath the Surface. The Power of Sewer Video Inspections.

How to find out if your pipes are hiding something.

When was the last time you thought about what’s happening inside your sewer lines? For most homeowners and property managers, the answer is probably “never” — or at least not until an issue arises. But what if you could see exactly what’s happening beneath your property without digging up your yard or destroying concrete? That’s exactly what sewer and underground pipe video inspections can offer.

What is a sewer video inspection?

A sewer video inspection is exactly what it sounds like: an inside look at your underground pipes using specialized camera equipment. A trained technician uses a flexible, waterproof camera attached to a long cable to enter your sewer line through an existing access point, like a drain opening. As the camera moves through the pipe, it relays real-time, high-resolution video footage to a monitor above ground which allows the technician to see the pipe’s interior.

If you had experience with early sewer video systems, you’ll be happy to learn that modern video inspection systems have improved significantly. Today’s cameras feature powerful LED lights to illuminate dark pipes better than before, the ability to rotate for a complete view of the pipe walls, and even built-in locating technology that shows the exact underground location of the camera.

These versatile cameras can inspect everything from storm drains, interior plumbing lines, and even pipes that run from your property to the street. If there are problems with a pipe and you can’t easily see inside it, video inspection is the answer.

Common problems uncovered with video inspections.

One of the biggest benefits of sewer video inspections is their ability to identify problems that would normally remain hidden until there is a major issue or damage. Here are a few common problems found during a video inspection:

• Tree Root Intrusion: this issue ranks among the most common culprits discovered during video inspections. Roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients inside sewer pipes, and even a small crack or loose joint can provide an entry point. Once inside, roots grow rapidly, creating blockages and eventually breaking apart the pipe entirely. We go over this in more detail in a recent blog with tips on keeping your pipes clog free.
  
  
• Pipe Corrosion and Deterioration: another frequent issue, especially in older homes, is corroding or deteriorating pipes. Cast iron pipes, which were standard in homes built before the 1970s, are vulnerable to rust and decay over time. Video inspections can identify sections of pipes that have corroded to the point where they’re barely functional, allowing you to replace them before they collapse and cause an emergency situation.
  
  
• Buildup and Blockages: grease accumulation, mineral deposits, and what the industry politely calls “foreign objects” (everything from children’s toys to tree branches that somehow found their way into the system) can all restrict water flow and eventually create complete blockages. Video inspections show not just that there’s a blockage, but what’s causing it and how bad the problem really is.
  
  
• Structural Issues: misaligned pipe joints from ground shifting, bellied pipes which are sections that have sunk due to settling soil, and cracks or breaks from external pressure are also easily identified through video inspection. These problems often develop over time and may not cause immediate symptoms, but as they worsen problems like sewage backups, contaminated soil, and expensive emergency repairs will arise if not addressed.

Why video inspections are worth the investment.

The advantages of sewer video inspections extend far beyond simple curiosity about your pipes’ condition. One of the most significant benefits is the ability to accurately determine the problem and how bad it is. Is that slow drain caused by a minor clog that can be cleared with a snake, or is it a collapsed pipe that requires excavation and replacement? A video inspection provides clear answers to these questions, preventing you from spending money on repairs that won’t solve the underlying issue.

Pinpointing the exact location of a problem is another game-changing benefit. Before video inspection technology became standard, plumbers often had to guess where a problem was located, leading to exploratory digging that could turn your entire yard into a construction zone. With video inspections, technicians can mark the exact spot where a break or blockage exists, minimizing excavation to only the necessary area. This targeted approach saves money, time, landscaping, and unnecessary headaches.

Video inspections also provide documentation. If you’re buying a property, having a video inspection of the sewer lines before closing can reveal expensive problems the seller may not even know about, giving you negotiating power or the opportunity to walk away from a bad investment. For property managers overseeing multiple buildings, regular video inspections create a maintenance record that helps predict when repairs will be needed and budget accordingly.

Since many serious sewer problems develop gradually over months or years, preventive maintenance can help homeowners catch issues early. Repairs can be scheduled at your convenience rather than dealing with an emergency backup in the middle of the night. This will also save on emergency repair costs.

When should you schedule a video inspection?

1. Ongoing Issues: certain situations practically demand a sewer video inspection. If you’re experiencing ongoing clogs or backups, especially in multiple drains or lower-level fixtures, a video inspection can help uncover whether you’re dealing with a simple maintenance issue or a more serious problem. Slow drains throughout the house, gurgling sounds when toilets flush, or sewage odors in your yard are all red flags that should prompt further investigation.
   
   
2. Major Renovations: before proceeding with major renovations, especially those involving bathroom or kitchen additions, a sewer video inspection will help to ensure your existing system can handle the increased load. There’s nothing worse than completing an expensive renovation only to discover your sewer line is inadequate or damaged.
   
   
3. Older Homes: for homes that are older, periodic video inspections are a good idea even without obvious symptoms. If your property is more than forty years old and you don’t know when the sewer lines were last inspected, a video inspection provides peace of mind and will help you plan for future maintenance needs.
   
   
4. Home or Property Purchase: if you’re purchasing a property, it is a good idea to insist on a sewer video inspection as part of your pre-closing process. Many standard home inspections don’t include sewer lines, yet replacing a main sewer line can cost thousands of dollars, an expense you definitely want to know about before signing papers.

For a relatively modest investment, you gain X-ray vision into your property’s hidden infrastructure, allowing you to make informed decisions, avoid unnecessary repairs, and catch problems before they become catastrophes. Whether you’re a homeowner protecting your investment or a property manager responsible for multiple buildings, the question isn’t whether you can afford a sewer video inspection, it’s whether you can afford not to have one.

If you are experiencing ongoing pipe issues like the ones mentioned above, or you simply want to be proactive and get a clear picture of your pipes’ current condition, contact one of our plumbing specialists here or give us a call today at (513) 999-6820 to get a free quote.

Question & Answers

What is a sewer video inspection?

A sewer video inspection uses a flexible, waterproof camera attached to a cable to capture real-time footage inside your pipes. This allows technicians to see the condition of your sewer lines without digging up your yard or breaking concrete.

What problems can a video inspection uncover?

Common issues include tree root intrusion, pipe corrosion, buildup and blockages, and structural problems like misaligned joints or bellied pipes. These problems often go unnoticed until they cause major damage.

Why is a video inspection worth the investment?

It provides accurate diagnosis, pinpoints the exact location of issues, and prevents unnecessary digging and costly repairs. It also offers documentation for property purchases and helps with preventive maintenance.

When should I schedule a sewer video inspection?

Consider an inspection if you have ongoing clogs or backups, are planning major renovations, own an older home, or are buying property. These situations often reveal hidden problems that can be expensive if ignored.

How can a video inspection save me money?

By identifying issues early and precisely, you avoid emergency repairs, unnecessary excavation, and wasted spending on ineffective fixes. It’s a small investment that can prevent thousands in future costs.