Frequently asked questions about Indiana sewer scope inspections
Are sewer scopes worth it?
Absolutely. Sewer inspection can cost as little as $200 and can provide peace of mind for homeowners when buying a house.
The cost of an inspection can easily save $6,000-$20,000 in sewer line repairs if any issues are found during the inspection.
Why use a sewer camera?
The main reason to use a sewer camera is that it is the only way to see inside of the sewer line to ensure that there are no breaks, clogs, roots, bellies, or offset in the pipe that could cause future drainage issues or blockages.
How does a sewer camera locator work?
A sewer camera locator helps pinpoint the location of the camera as it is in the sewer line. For example, if during a sewer line inspection the operator finds a clog in the line, he can take the locator outside and it will show him the current location of the camera, thus identifying the location of the clog.
Think of it like a metal detector finding something metal underground, but in this case, it’s finding the camera.
What is a sewer inspection camera?
A sewer inspection camera is just a small camera about 1” in diameter that is connected to a long fiberglass or plastic rod that has wiring in it. The camera is connected to a video screen so the operator can see and record exactly what the camera is seeing.
It’s the only way to see inside the sewer pipe (or any pipe for that matter!).
What is a sewer scope inspection?
A sewer scope inspection is when we run a camera through the sewer line to check for any issues. We look for roots or other obstructions in the line, pipe offsets or clogs from toilet paper or other items being flushed down the line.
We can also locate the the line to see where it runs, in the event that the homeowner wants to bulid on the land.
What are the benefits of sewer line scope?
The benefit of sewer line scopes is that is allows the homeowner or buyer to see if there are any issues that currently exist inside the sewer line and also to identify any conditions that would potentially cause future issues in the line’s functionality.
How much does it cost to have a camera put down a drain?
Pricing varies, but a typical cost to have a camera put down a drain is $200-$400. Pricing may go up if there is no exterior cleanout for easy access to the line or if access to a cleanout is otherwise difficult.
Cameras CAN go down toilet flanges after the toilet is removed. Cameras can also go down vent stacks (the pipe you might see sticking up our of your roof).
How often should a sewer line be cleaned?
A sewer line should be cleaned every 12-18 months. A water jet cleaning should be all that is needed.
For older home with clay or cast iron sewer lines, the line should be cleaned and inspected every 12 months to unsure proper functionality and avoid costly repairs.
