Are you having trouble with your sewer line and need to know what’s going on inside? Does your property experience drainage issues? If you have an old property, there is a high chance that your plumbing system is outdated and may need to be assessed.
One of the most effective ways to determine what’s happening underground is by using a sewer line camera inspection. The average cost of a sewer line camera inspection can be anywhere between $250 and $500 depending on the complexity of the job. The cost can be much lower or higher depending on different factors, such as the scope of the inspection and the size of your property.
What is Sewer Line Camera Inspection?
Underlying plumbing problems are hard to detect without the right equipment. Sewer lines are tricky to assess, as they are located underground and can be difficult to access. This is not just the usual plumbing issues, such as clogs or leaks. Before you can fix the problem, you need to know what is causing it in the first place.
Sewer line camera inspection is a process in which a plumber uses a camera to inspect the sewer lines of your property. But this is not just an ordinary camera. The tiny camera is attached to a flexible rod and is then inserted into the sewer lines. This way, it can see the inner lining of the pipes and detect any kind of blockage, damage, or other issues.
When Should You Have a Sewer Line Camera Inspection?
As mentioned, usual plumbing problems do not call for a sewer line camera inspection. Here are some instances where this might be necessary:
When you are buying a new home
One of the factors to carefully consider when buying a new home is the state of its plumbing system, especially concerning potential old house plumbing problems. If you have any concerns, it’s advisable to opt for a sewer line camera inspection, enabling you to make a well-informed decision about the property’s condition.
When you are experiencing drainage problems
Simple drainage problems can be easily fixed, but if the issue persists, you might need to have a sewer line camera inspection to find out what’s causing it. This will help you assess and repair the problem quickly to avoid further damage.
When you are replacing the sewer line
Another instance when you need a sewer line camera inspection is when you are replacing your old sewer lines. This will help determine the exact location of the damaged pipes and ensure that your new plumbing system is working correctly.
When the sewer line is old
For old homes, a sewer line camera inspection can be beneficial to assess the condition of the pipes and check if they need to be replaced or not. While the normal lifespan of sewer lines can range from 20 to 50 years, it’s wise to have it checked regularly especially when you have bought an old home that is decades old.
Different Factors that Can Affect the Cost of Sewer Line Camera Inspections in Arizona?
As mentioned, while the average cost of a sewer line camera inspection in Arizona can usually range between $250 and $500, there are certain factors that can influence the cost:
1. Length of Sewer Lines
The first factor to consider is the length of your sewer lines. Although it’s hard to determine, there are some methods you can use such as a visual inspection or using a plumbing snake. The longer the sewer line, the higher the cost of the camera inspection will be.
2. Accessibility
Another factor to consider is the accessibility of the sewer lines. If it’s hard to access or requires special equipment, you might need to pay extra.
3. Type of Inspection
The type of inspection you need will also affect the cost. Usually, a basic video camera inspection can cost anywhere between $250 and $500. But if you need to use a more advanced camera or require additional services such as pipe lining or pipe bursting, you should expect to pay more.
4. Location
The location of the property will also influence the cost. If your property is located in a remote area with limited access, you might need to pay extra. Additionally, if your property is located in an urban setting where the cost of living is high, you should expect to pay more for the service.
One tip that can save you the cost, especially when you bought a new home is to ask your real estate to have a sewer line camera inspection done before you purchase the property.
Benefits of Sewer Line Camera Inspection
You can avoid more damage
Sewer line camera inspections can detect underlying issues that may not be visible to the naked eye. This helps you identify the problem and address it before it causes more damage.
You can save money
With a sewer line camera inspection, you can avoid costly repairs in the future. It can also help you save money on your water bill if the inspection reveals a leak in the pipes.
You can prevent health risks
While many homeowners don’t really pay attention to their sewer lines, it actually plays an important role in preventing health risks. If your sewer lines are damaged or broken, they can cause contamination and might even lead to serious health problems.
Accurate diagnosis
The thing about plumbing repairs is that it’s difficult to diagnose the problem. With a sewer line camera inspection, you can get an accurate diagnosis to know what is the right solution for your plumbing issues.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: What’s Better?
Can you do a sewer line camera inspection on your own? Technically, yes. But it’s usually not recommended as it can be dangerous and you might not be able to do it correctly. For this kind of job, it’s always best to hire a professional. Not only will they have the right equipment and skills, but they can also provide you with accurate results.
Plus, hiring a professional can give you assurance as they are mostly covered by insurance in case anything goes wrong.
If you are in Phoenix and other nearby areas, Phoenix Plumbing and Drain offers reliable sewer line camera inspection services at an affordable price. We use state-of-the-art equipment to inspect your plumbing system and provide you with accurate results.
FAQS
Is sewer line camera inspection worth it?
The cost of replacing the sewer system can cost upwards of $20,000. Thus, it is worth investing in a sewer line camera inspection to detect any issues and prevent future damage. Investing $300 yearly to do a sewer line camera inspection is much more affordable than paying for major sewer line repairs.
How long does a sewer line camera inspection take?
A sewer line inspection usually takes between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the size of the property and the complexity of the plumbing system. It’s a pretty quick job that can help you save time and money in the long run.
