A few days before
- Find the sewer cleanout and photograph it with something nearby for scale.
- If you cannot find one, tell the plumber so they can plan another way in.
- Gather your symptom log, past invoices and any earlier sewer videos.
- Look up the year the house was built and any known plumbing repairs.
- Check the plumber's CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov.
- Confirm in writing what the visit includes: clearing, camera, locating, recording, report.
The day before
- Clear plants, pots and furniture from around the cleanout.
- Make a path to any toilet that may be pulled if there is no cleanout.
- Note where trees, patios and additions sit relative to the line.
- Plan to be home, or have someone there who can answer questions.
- Write down your questions so you do not forget them on the day.
On the day
- Walk the plumber through the history.Hand over the log and point out the fixtures that back up first.
- Hold off on heavy water use.Ask before running the washer or dishwasher; the plumber may want some water flowing and not a flood.
- Watch the screen.Ask the plumber to pause at anything significant and tell you the footage.
- Follow the locate.Walk with the plumber as findings are marked so you know where each one is.
- Collect the recording.Check that you have the video file or link and that it plays.
Questions to have ready
- Will the camera go all the way to the city main?
- Can you show me each finding and its footage?
- Will every significant finding be located and marked?
- What is urgent, what can be planned, and what is just worth watching?
- When will I get the written summary?
Leave with these four things
- Recording
- A video file or download link you have tested.
- Summary
- Each finding listed with its footage.
- Marks
- Paint or flags on the ground, photographed.
- Estimate
- Any repair proposal, in writing and separate.
Common questions
Do I need to empty the house of water before the visit?
No, but avoid large drains like a full washer load right before or during the inspection unless the plumber asks for water.
How long does a typical inspection take?
It varies with access, line length and whether clearing is needed. Ask the plumber for an estimate when you book.
Should pets be kept inside?
Keep them away from the work area and especially away from any open cleanout or sewage.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.