Why inspect a line that is already flowing

A sewer cable or jetter opens a path through a blockage, but it does not show what made the blockage in the first place. Was it a one-time mass of wipes, or roots entering a cracked joint twenty feet out? The answer decides whether you are done or whether you will be calling again in a few months.

Inspection works best after the line has been cleared and flushed. A camera pushed into a full, dirty line mostly shows murky water.

How an inspection usually goes

  1. Access

    The camera head on a flexible push rod goes in through a cleanout, or through a toilet opening if there is no cleanout.

  2. Push and record

    The operator pushes the camera slowly toward the street, recording video and noting distance from the access point.

  3. Stop at defects

    At each joint problem, crack, root intrusion or belly, the operator pauses so the defect is clear on the recording.

  4. Locate from above

    A transmitter in the camera head lets the operator find its position and depth from the surface and mark it on the ground.

  5. Review together

    A careful plumber walks you through the footage, defect by defect, before discussing options.

Words you may hear

Footage counter
The distance from the access point shown on screen. It tells you how far out a defect is.
Locating
Finding the camera head's position and depth from above with a receiver.
Belly
A low spot where the pipe sags and water stands.
Offset
A joint where one pipe section sits higher or lower than the next.
Tie-in
Where your lateral connects to the public sewer main.
Scale
Rough corrosion buildup inside cast-iron pipe.

Ask for these

  • A copy of the full video, not just screenshots.
  • The distance to each defect and its approximate depth.
  • Marks on the ground above any spot that may need repair.
  • A note of the pipe material and any changes in material.
  • A written summary of what was found.

What the findings usually lead to

  • IfClean pipe, one-time debrisThenNo repair needed. Look at what was going down the drains.
  • IfMinor roots at one or two jointsThenScheduled cleaning or a localized repair may be reasonable.
  • IfMany intrusions, cracks or heavy scaleThenAsk about lining or replacement and get the options in writing.
  • IfA break or collapseThenA repair is usually needed before the line will stay open.

Common questions

Can the camera go all the way to the city main?

Often, depending on access, pipe condition and the equipment used. Ask whether the inspection will reach the tie-in.

Do I need an inspection every time?

Not necessarily. It matters most the first time, after a repeat stoppage, or before deciding on a repair.

Is a camera inspection worth getting before buying a house?

Many buyers of older homes get one, since the sewer lateral is not visible in a general home inspection.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.