Sewer Camera Inspections: What They Show and Why Every Homebuyer Should Get One
Purchasing a new home is one of the biggest investments most people will ever make. Buyers often prioritize visual inspections of the roof, foundation, HVAC system, and interior finishes, but one essential area is frequently overlooked: the sewer line.
A damaged or aging sewer system can result in thousands of dollars in repair costs after a sale closes. That’s why a sewer camera inspection is one of the smartest decisions a buyer — or even a proactive seller — can make.
In this article, we’ll explain how sewer camera inspections work, what they reveal, why they’re crucial for homebuyers, and when property owners should consider one.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection is a non-invasive diagnostic service where a professional plumber uses a waterproof, high-resolution video camera attached to a flexible cable to inspect the interior of a sewer pipe.
The camera is fed through the sewer line via an access point (cleanout or toilet drain) and displays real-time footage on a monitor as it travels through the pipe system. This allows the technician to:
Identify blockages or obstructions
Assess pipe material and age
Detect cracks, corrosion, or breaks
Locate root intrusions
Evaluate flow and pipe alignment
A typical inspection takes 30–60 minutes, and many companies provide a copy of the video footage and a detailed report.
Why Are Sewer Camera Inspections Important for Homebuyers?
- They Reveal Hidden Problems
Many sewer line problems develop slowly and aren’t visible during standard home inspections. A sewer camera inspection uncovers issues like sagging pipes (bellies), tree root intrusions, or collapsed sections that could cause major headaches post-purchase.
- They Prevent Costly Repairs
Repairing or replacing a main sewer line can cost $5,000 to $20,000+ depending on location and scope. Catching issues early allows for renegotiation of the sale price or requesting repairs from the seller.
- They Provide Peace of Mind
A clean bill of health on the sewer system gives buyers added confidence in their investment. If there are no issues, buyers can move forward without fear of an expensive surprise later.
- They Strengthen Buyer Negotiations
Should the inspection reveal problems, buyers can negotiate credits, repair commitments, or even walk away if the risks outweigh the value.
What Sewer Camera Inspections Can Detect
Root Intrusion: Tree roots seeking moisture often invade sewer lines, causing blockages and breaks.
Pipe Bellies: Sagging pipes that accumulate waste and water, increasing clog risk.
Cracks and Fractures: Structural weaknesses that could collapse over time.
Corrosion or Rust: Particularly in cast iron pipes, leading to leaks and decay.
Grease Buildup or Foreign Objects: Reducing pipe flow and causing backups.
Improper Pipe Sloping: Poor design can lead to frequent clogs.
When Should You Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection?
Before Buying a Home
This is the most critical time. Particularly necessary for homes that are:
More than 20 years old
Built before 1980 with clay or cast iron pipes
Surrounded by mature trees
Experiencing slow drains or odors during showings
If You’re Selling a Home
A pre-listing inspection can reassure buyers, prevent negotiations from falling through, and allow you to fix problems in advance.
If You’re Planning Renovations
Major home additions or remodeling can stress existing plumbing. Know your system’s condition before making changes.
How Much Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Cost?
Most inspections cost between $250 and $500, depending on region, access points, and scope of the inspection.
Compared to potential repair costs, this is a small price to pay for due diligence and peace of mind.
What to Expect During the Inspection
The technician locates or creates an access point.
A camera snake is inserted and fed through the sewer line.
The system is evaluated for damage, blockage, and flow.
A video recording and report are created.
Recommendations are provided if issues are found.
A reputable plumbing contractor like Pipe Spy, Inc. will explain findings clearly and recommend only necessary follow-up work.
FAQs About Sewer Camera Inspections
Q: Does a home inspection include the sewer line?A: Usually not. General home inspectors don’t have the tools to inspect underground pipes.
Q: Will the inspection damage my pipes?A: No. The equipment is designed to be flexible and non-invasive.
Q: Can a camera inspection find leaks?A: It can spot cracks or shifts that suggest leaks, though pinpointing the exact leak source may require additional tools.
Q: Should I get one if the home is newer?A: It’s less urgent, but still worthwhile — especially if the neighborhood has known plumbing issues or there are any signs of drainage problems.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Skip This Step
A sewer camera inspection is one of the most overlooked yet highly valuable pre-purchase services available. It can save homebuyers thousands of dollars, strengthen negotiating positions, and prevent stressful surprises after move-in.
Whether you're buying, selling, or just want to know the condition of your underground plumbing, schedule a sewer camera inspection with a trusted expert like Pipe Spy, Inc.. It’s a small investment that offers significant protection for your property and your peace of mind.
