Referral service, not a contractor. SF Drain & Sewer Pros does not perform plumbing, drain, or sewer work. We may be paid if you hire a provider through a partner link. Always confirm the provider's license and get a written estimate. How this works
Sewer camera inspections
A waterproof camera on a flexible push rod is run through the building sewer from a cleanout. The video shows the pipe material, joints, roots, offsets, sags ("bellies"), cracks, and collapses, usually with a footage counter so problem spots can be located from the surface.
When it's worth it
- Before buying an older home. A general home inspection usually doesn't include the sewer lateral, and lateral replacement can be one of the biggest surprise costs of an older property.
- After repeated clogs, to find the cause instead of re-clearing the symptom.
- Before hydro-jetting an old line.
- Before and after a repair, to confirm the work.
Common findings
- Root intrusion at joints of older clay pipe.
- Offset joints where pipe sections have shifted.
- Bellies, low spots that hold water and debris.
- Corrosion or scale in cast-iron lines.
- Cracks or collapse, which usually need repair or replacement.
Tips
Ask for the video file and a written report with footage marks. If the company that found a problem is also quoting the fix, it's reasonable to get a second opinion on major repairs.