How to use this worksheet
Sewer footage moves quickly and can be hard to remember. Ask the plumber to pause at anything notable and tell you the distance on screen. Write it down as you go.
If you get a copy of the recording, you can fill in the rest later. Many older Fullerton laterals change material along the way, so note where those changes happen too.
Inspection details
- Date
- ____________
- Access point used
- Cleanout / toilet / other: ____________
- Direction
- Toward street / toward house
- Total distance viewed
- ______ feet
- Before or after cleaning
- Before / after / both
Findings along the line
| Distance | Pipe material | Finding | Severity (light / moderate / heavy) | Plumber's comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Finding codes you can use
- R
- Roots. Note fine, moderate or heavy.
- G
- Grease or sludge on the pipe wall.
- S
- Scale or tuberculation, usually in cast iron.
- O
- Offset joint.
- B
- Belly or standing water.
- C
- Crack, break or missing piece.
- T
- Transition to a different pipe material.
After you fill it in
- IfOnly G or light S entriesThenCleaning is likely the main need. Ask whether jetting is recommended.
- IfR entries at a few jointsThenCleaning may help for a while. Ask what interval the footage suggests.
- IfAny C, heavy O or long B entriesThenAsk about repair options and consider a second opinion before a large job.
Common questions
What if the plumber will not share the footage?
Ask before work starts whether you can keep a copy. If not, take careful notes with this worksheet while you watch.
Can I judge severity myself?
Use your best impression and the plumber's words. The point is a consistent record, not a professional rating.
Who should I show this to for a second opinion?
Another licensed contractor, ideally with the original footage. Check any contractor's license at cslb.ca.gov.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.