Sewer Line Inspection: When to Inspect and What to Expect

Sewer problems are often stressful and messy. At Burger Plumbing, we know how quickly a small issue can turn into a major headache. A sewer camera inspection gives clear, noninvasive answers so you can decide the right fix fast.

If you have recurring backups, strange smells, or a loud gurgle in drains, a timely inspection can stop damage and reduce costs. This post explains when to inspect, what a camera shows, how pros read the video, and repair choices based on findings.

When to inspect — recurring backups, tree root intrusion, bad odors, buying a home, remodeling 🔍

Sewer inspections are a strategic tool. They help find the real cause of problems without digging up your yard. Consider an inspection if you see any of the following:

• Recurring backups in toilets, sinks, or floor drains.
• Slow drains in multiple fixtures at the same time.
• Strong sewer or rotten-egg odors near drains or in the yard.
• New sink or bathroom installations during remodeling.
• Buying a home — especially older properties with unknown sewer ages.
• Unusual wet spots or sinkholes in the yard near the sewer line path.
• Tree planting close to sewer lines or old trees near the sewer route.

Older neighborhoods often have clay or cast-iron pipes. Those materials crack, shift, or let roots in over time. If your property connects to a municipal sewer and you see backups or leaks, local authorities may require timely repair to avoid fines. That’s another reason to inspect early.

Why a camera inspection helps

• Noninvasive: no digging just to find the problem.
• Accurate: visual proof of exact damage type and location.
• Faster decisions: you can choose the best repair quickly.
• Useful for records: video and stills document condition for lenders, insurance, or municipal records.

If you search for "Emergency Plumbing near you" when a backup happens, a camera inspection is often part of the emergency diagnosis.

The inspection process — prep, camera insertion, live feed, recording, report 🎥

A sewer camera inspection follows clear steps. Here’s what to expect when Burger Plumbing arrives:

1. Prep and access

   • We locate the easiest access point: a cleanout or the main sewer line in the yard.
   • If needed, we clear a small area for the technician to work safely.
   • You’ll get a short explanation of the plan and timeline.

2. Camera insertion

   • A flexible, waterproof push camera is fed into the pipe from the cleanout or a fixture access.
   • The camera head has lights and measures pipe distance as it advances.

3. Live feed and operator control

   • The technician watches a live video feed on a monitor or tablet.
   • The camera operator can pan and rotate the head to get good angles.
   • The feed shows real-time images of roots, cracks, joints, grease, and more.

4. Recording and stills

   • We record the full pass and capture video stills of key issues.
   • Recordings are time- and distance-stamped to mark locations.

5. Inspection report and recommendations

   • After the run, we create a simple report:
     • What was found (with photos).
     • Video timestamps and distance to each problem.
     • Repair options and pros/cons.
     • Suggested timeline and urgency level.
   • We review the report with you and answer questions.

Prep you can do

• Locate any visible cleanouts at the foundation or yard.
• Clear a small path for the technician to access the yard cleanout.
• Note any recent tree plantings or large trees near the house.

The entire inspection typically takes 30 minutes to 2 hours depending on line length and complexity.

What inspections reveal — cracks, bellied pipe, roots, grease buildup, offsets

A sewer camera shows the pipe’s inside condition. Common findings include:

• Cracks or fractures

  • Small fissures, longitudinal cracks, or full breaks.
  • Can let groundwater and roots in.

• Bellied pipe (sagging)

  • A section where the pipe has sunk, creating a basin that traps solids.
  • Frequent spot for backups.

• Tree root intrusion

  • Roots enter at joints, cracks, or damaged seals.
  • Roots grow inside the pipe and catch debris.

• Grease and debris buildup

  • Congealed fats, oils, and grease (FOG) restrict flow.
  • Often found in kitchen sewer lines or building laterals.

• Offset joints and separations

  • Pipes shifted at joints from ground movement.
  • Causes misalignment and flow restriction.

• Collapsed or crushed pipe

  • Sections that have partially or fully collapsed.
  • Seen more in older clay or cast-iron lines or under heavy loads.

• Foreign objects and improper repairs

  • Items flushed accidentally, or past repairs that fail.
  • Incorrect pipe materials or short sleeves that don’t fit.

How to read common camera findings (plain language)

• Narrowing with smooth deposits = grease buildup or mineral scale.
• Roots weaving through joints = active root intrusion requiring removal and possible repair.
• Sudden dark gap or broken edges = crack or collapse; location matters for repair choice.
• Pooling water and debris in a low point = bellied pipe; usually needs correction.
• Offset seam visible with misalignment = joint movement; may need partial replacement.

Authoritative resources like the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and guidance from the EPA recommend video inspection for sewer assessment before large repairs. Also, NASSCO (National Association of Sewer Service Companies) provides standards for inspection reporting—many professional services follow those practices.

Repair options based on findings — spot repair, trenchless lining, full replacement

After the inspection, recommendations typically fall into these options. We describe each, pros and cons, and when they’re appropriate.

Spot repair

• What it is: Fix a small damaged section by removing a short pipe segment and replacing it.
• Best for: Isolated cracks, small collapsed sections, or localized root damage.
• Pros:
  • Less invasive than full replacement.
  • Shorter time on site.
• Cons:
  • May be less durable if surrounding pipe is in poor condition.
  • Multiple spot repairs over time can add up in cost and disruption.

Trenchless lining (cured-in-place pipe, CIPP)

• What it is: A flexible resin-saturated liner is inverted or pulled into the pipe and cured to form a new inner pipe.
• Best for: Multiple small cracks, joints that leak, or moderate root intrusion without collapse.
• Pros:
  • Minimal digging—often only two small access pits.
  • Restores flow and seals cracks and joints.
• Cons:
  • Not suitable for fully collapsed pipes or sections with heavy bellies.
  • Liner has a finite life and specific installation limits (pipe diameter, bends).

Full replacement (open trench or targeted dig)

• What it is: Remove and replace the damaged pipe section or the entire run.
• Best for: Collapsed pipes, severe bellies, extensive damage, or when pipe material is failing across long lengths.
• Pros:
  • Long-term fix and opportunity to upgrade materials.
  • Can correct alignment and grade issues.
• Cons:
  • More invasive and costly.
  • Longer timeline and landscape disruption.

Other options and add-ons

• Hydro jetting: High-pressure water to clean grease and roots. Often done before camera work to clear viewing and after to remove debris.
• Mechanical root cutting: Rotary cutters to remove roots, temporary relief—best paired with a repair plan.
• Pipe bursting: A trenchless full replacement pulling a new pipe through the old one; useful when lining is not suitable.
• Manhole and lateral adjustments: May be needed when municipal connection problems exist.

How we choose a repair

• Match the fix to the camera findings and your priorities (budget, disruption, long-term solution).
• Consider pipe age and material (e.g., old clay lines may lean toward replacement).
• Factor in municipal requirements—some cities require full replacement to current standards if the line crosses a right-of-way or fails certain tests.

Typical costs and timelines (H3)

Costs and timelines vary by region, pipe length, material, and site access. These are ranges to help planning. Prices are presented as broad guidance—not quotes.

Spot repair

• Typical cost range: $800–$4,000
• Timeline: A few hours to 1–2 days (includes excavation and repair).
• Best when damage is less than a few feet.

Trenchless lining (CIPP)

• Typical cost range: $2,500–$12,000
• Timeline: 1–3 days (prep, liner installation, cure time, and reinstating service).
• Good for mid-length repairs with intact host pipe.

Pipe bursting / trenchless replacement

• Typical cost range: $4,000–$20,000+
• Timeline: 1–4 days (site prep, pulling equipment, test, backfill).
• Works when pipe cannot be lined.

Full open-trench replacement

• Typical cost range: $6,000–$30,000+
• Timeline: Several days to a week or more depending on landscaping, driveways, and permits.
• Used for long runs or fully failed lines.

Add-ons that affect cost

• Landscaping or driveway repair.
• Permit and inspection fees from the municipality.
• Additional lateral work or municipal connection repairs.
• Easement or utility coordination.

When budgeting, ask for a written scope that includes excavation limits and restoration details. If your property connects to a municipal sewer, repairs may need to meet local codes enforced by the municipal sewer authority or public works. Local rules can affect method choice and cost.

Problem/Scenario — real-world examples

Here are common scenarios and how a sewer camera helps:

Scenario: Toilets back up after heavy rain

• Camera often finds roots or a crack that lets groundwater and roots in.
• If pipe joints are failing, municipal inspection may be needed.

Scenario: Slow drains in multiple fixtures

• Camera can show grease build-up or a partial blockage.
• Hydro jetting plus targeted repairs often clears the issue.

Scenario: New sink in remodel creating backups

• A camera shows if the problem is at the house connection or farther in the lateral.
• If the house lateral is undersized or bellied, replacement may be recommended.

Scenario: Buying an older home

• Camera inspection documents pipe condition for lenders and helps budget for future repairs.
• Older clay pipe often shows root intrusion and may need staged replacement.

Sample success story (local)

• A homeowner in an older neighborhood had weekly backups. Burger Plumbing performed a camera inspection that showed a bellied clay section under a maple tree. We recommended a short targeted replacement with a minimal excavation path that avoided the driveway. The homeowner received recorded video stills and a report for their records.

Quick Safety Checklist

Before an inspection or repair, follow these steps to keep people and pets safe:

• Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Move cars if the technician needs driveway access.
• Avoid using chemical drain cleaners before an inspection; they can damage equipment and harm technicians.
• If sewer smell is strong indoors, ventilate rooms and avoid open flames (natural gas risk is low but safety matters).
• If you have a septic system, share the location and recent pumping history with the technician.
• If you smell gas or have a suspected gas leak, call your gas utility and evacuate—this is not a plumbing inspection issue.

Safety standards and codes

• Professionals follow local plumbing codes and safety practices, plus guidance from the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and industry bodies like NASSCO for inspection practices.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

When to try DIY

• Single slow sink or a localized clog in a reachable trap.
• Use a plunger or a handheld drain snake for simple clogs.
• If you want to avoid paying for a camera and the problem is minor.

When to call a pro (Burger Plumbing)

• Multiple fixtures are slow or backing up.
• Backups that repeat after DIY attempts.
• Bad sewer odors that won’t go away.
• Signs of ground surface sinking near the sewer line.
• When you want an exact diagnosis without digging.

Why hire a pro for camera inspection and repairs

• Proper equipment and training to run the camera safely.
• Accurate interpretation of findings and reliable measurements.
• Ability to follow with appropriate repair methods and permits if required.
• Access to trenchless options and hydro jetting equipment.

If the situation is an ongoing backup, calling for professional help early can prevent bigger damage and higher costs.

What pros do on arrival (field steps)

When a Burger Plumbing technician arrives for an inspection, they typically:

• Confirm the call details and show ID and license information.
• Walk the property with you to identify problem areas and access points.
• Photograph the work area and document conditions.
• Perform a pre-inspection check (clear obstructions, test a few fixtures).
• Insert the camera and start the video run.
• If needed, perform hydro jetting first to clear heavy debris and ensure a clear view.
• After the run, review the video and stills with you and explain options in plain language.

Certifications and credentials

• Our technicians carry state plumbing licenses and training certifications. Many hold industry-recognized certifications such as NASSCO PACP (Pipeline Assessment Certification Program) for accurate reporting.
• Ask to see licenses and certifications when the technician arrives.

Sample video stills and records

• We record the full inspection and provide time- and distance-stamped stills of key findings so you can see what we see.

Prevention & Maintenance

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your sewer line and delay or prevent major repairs.

Recommended routines

• Schedule sewer camera inspections every 5–10 years for older pipes or when problems start.
• Hydro jetting as preventive cleaning every few years if you have recurring grease or debris problems.
• Avoid flushing wipes, paper towels, and sanitary products.
• Limit grease going down the drain—use a sink strainer and a grease-disposal container for cooking oils.
• Be cautious planting trees near sewer lines. Root intrusion is a common cause of laterals failing.
• Keep roof runoff and downspouts away from sewer cleanouts and lateral runs to prevent groundwater infiltration.

Septic system considerations

• If you’re on septic, regular pumping and inspections of the septic tank and lateral field are important.
• A sewer camera inspection connects house plumbing to the septic tank and helps identify problems before they impact the system.

Codes and guidelines

• Many municipalities and local plumbing codes require certain inspections or permit filings for lateral repairs or replacements. Check local public works or building department rules before a major repair.

Costs & Time Factors (broader view)

Costs depend on many variables. Here are the main drivers and how they affect price and schedule.

Primary cost drivers

• Length of damaged pipe and distance from house to main/connection.
• Pipe material (clay, cast iron, PVC, etc.).
• Condition of surrounding soil and presence of obstructions.
• Need for surface restoration (landscape, driveway, sidewalks).
• Local permit and inspection fees.
• Accessibility—driveway or landscaping removal increases time and cost.
• Municipal coordination if work affects public right-of-way.

Time factors

• Simple inspections and spot repairs: same day to 1–2 days.
• Trenchless lining or pipe bursting: 1–3 days, plus curing and testing time.
• Full open-trench replacement: multiple days to a week or more depending on complexity and restoration.

Ways to manage cost

• Choose the least invasive solution that addresses long-term needs.
• Combine repairs with planned landscaping or remodeling to reduce repeated excavations.
• Ask about phased repairs if a full replacement is needed but budget is limited—fix the worst sections first.

Permits and municipal coordination

• Some repairs, especially those affecting the public connection, require permits and municipal inspections. That process can add days to weeks depending on the local authority.

When It’s an Emergency ⚠️

Call emergency plumbing services if you have:

• Raw sewage backing up into the home.
• Sewage odors so strong you cannot ventilate the area.
• Repeated backups after temporary fixes.
• A sinkhole or sudden ground collapse near the sewer line.
• A sewer line break that causes flooding.

If sewage is inside the structure, stay out of contaminated areas, keep children and pets away, and call for emergency plumbing help. Sewage contains pathogens and contaminants—prompt professional cleanup and repairs protect health and property.

Emergency plumbing crews can perform an immediate camera assessment to determine if the issue is a blockage, collapse, or other failure and provide a safe short-term response while planning permanent repairs.

FAQ

Q: How long does a sewer camera inspection take? A: Most inspections take 30 minutes to 2 hours. If we need to clean the line first with hydro jetting, add time for that step.

Q: Will the camera work on all pipe types? A: Yes. Cameras work in most common materials: PVC, cast iron, clay, and others. Severe collapse or extreme blockage can limit camera progress.

Q: Can a camera pinpoint the exact spot to dig? A: Yes. Camera systems measure distance from the access point. We also use sonde locators to mark the pipe’s position above ground to guide targeted digs.

Q: Will insurance cover sewer line repair? A: Coverage varies greatly. Some homeowner policies exclude sewer lateral damage; others cover sudden damage. Check your policy and provide recorded inspection evidence for claims.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

Older neighborhoods and clay pipes

• Many older areas used clay or terra cotta pipes. These materials are strong but brittle and prone to root intrusion and joint separation over time.
• In neighborhoods with mature trees, root issues are common. Roots seek moisture and can exploit joints and cracks in clay pipe.

Municipal connections and easements

• If the lateral crosses a public right-of-way, your municipality may require specific materials and inspections for replacement.
• Some cities place responsibility for the full lateral on the homeowner; others share responsibility. Know your local rules.

Seasonal patterns

• Root growth commonly increases in spring and early summer; symptoms may appear then.
• Heavy rains can saturate soil and increase groundwater infiltration into cracked pipes, making backups more likely.
• Freezing conditions can shift soil and put pressure on old pipes. Watch for new symptoms after winter thaw.

Working with local authorities

• For repairs affecting public connections, coordinate permits and inspections early.
• Municipal inspectors may require test videos or dye testing to verify the repair.

Trust elements and what Burger Plumbing provides

What you will get from us

• Time-stamped video recording and still images of the inspection for your records.
• Clear, written reports that explain findings and recommended next steps in plain language.
• Licensed technicians who can explain NASSCO-style findings and how they translate to repairs.
• Real local success stories and references upon request.

Warranties and written terms

• Many repair methods come with manufacturer or installer warranties. Discuss written warranty terms specific to the repair plan you choose.
• We will outline warranty information in the written estimate so you know what is covered and for how long.

Documentation for municipal or real estate needs

• We can provide recorded video, photos, and reports that many cities and lenders accept as evidence of pipe condition or repair.

Choosing a contractor

• Ask for license numbers, proof of insurance, and references.
• Request a clear written scope and breakdown of costs before work begins.
• If your project requires permits, confirm who will pull them and handle inspections.

Authoritative sources to reference

• International Plumbing Code (IPC) for installation standards and requirements.
• Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for guidance on sewage handling and public health concerns.
• NASSCO for inspection standards and reporting best practices.

Final thoughts

A sewer camera inspection is often the fastest, safest, and most cost-effective way to find the root cause of sewer problems. It prevents guesswork, reduces unnecessary digging, and helps you select the right repair method for the long term. Whether you have an emergency backup or want to check the condition before a remodel or purchase, an inspection provides the facts you need.

If you need emergency plumbing help or want a sewer camera inspection, Burger Plumbing is available 24/7 to diagnose the issue and explain your options in plain terms. We’ll provide video evidence, a clear report, and a tailored repair plan that fits your situation and local rules.

Call Burger Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at  1-877-778-5124 .