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Last Revised: 5/16/25
Are you tired of dealing with the same stubborn clog over and over again? Wondering if there’s a bigger issue lurking in your sewer line?
Oftentimes, persistent drain issues can point to a deeper, unseen problem.
One of the most powerful plumbing diagnostic tools is the sewer camera inspection – a modern solution to uncover hidden problems in your sewer and drain lines. Here at Mattioni, we’ve performed hundreds of sewer camera inspections over the years – helping homeowners stop recurring clogs and avoid unnecessary repairs.
In this article, you’ll get the information you need about sewer camera inspections to confidently decide if you’ll need one to solve your plumbing problem. We’ll cover:
- What a sewer camera inspection is and how it works
- Signs that your home may need one
- Common problems they uncover
- How a sewer camera inspection can protect your home and budget
Let’s start by defining exactly what a sewer camera inspection is.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera through a cleanout and into your sewer line to view the interior of your pipes in real time. The camera is attached to a flexible cable and sends a video feed to a monitor, allowing a licensed technician to inspect your system from the inside out.
This method is non-invasive, highly accurate, and far more informative than traditional plumbing diagnostics. Whether you’re experiencing persistent drain clogs or planning to buy a new home, a sewer camera inspection provides the peace of mind that comes with knowing exactly what’s happening underground.
Sewer Camera Inspections Are More Effective Than Traditional Plumbing Diagnostics
Think of a sewer camera inspection like a CT scan for your plumbing. Instead of guessing, your plumber can see what’s going wrong – whether it’s a blockage, break, or buildup – and make targeted recommendations to fix it the right way the first time.
Signs You May Need a Sewer Camera Inspection
Not all clogs are the same. Some are surface-level issues that can be dealt with relatively easily – but others are signs of deeper, more serious problems. Here are the most common symptoms that point to the need for a professional sewer camera inspection:
- Recurring clogs in the same drain or area of your home
- Slow draining from sinks, tubs, or showers – especially multiple fixtures at once
- Unpleasant odors or gurgling sounds from your drains
- Backups when flushing the toilet or using the washing machine
- You’ve already tried snaking and plunging with no lasting results
These issues often mean something is blocking or damaging your sewer line that simple tools can’t reach. A sewer camera inspection allows you to confirm the root cause.
Pictured Above: Tree root infiltration of a sewer line
5 Common Problems Sewer Camera Inspections Can Detect
A professional sewer camera inspection can uncover a wide range of problems that aren’t visible from above ground. These include:
- Tree Root Infiltration: Roots find their way into joints or cracks and continue growing, eventually blocking flow and damaging the pipe.
- Pipe Bellies: A sag in the pipe, which creates a channel that collects water and debris, leading to chronic backups.
- Corrosion or Grease Buildup: Over time, residue or sediment buildup can restrict water flow or fully clog cast iron or galvanized pipes.
- Foreign Objects: Everything from wipes (which shouldn’t be flushed even if marked “flushable”) to kids’ toys can end up lodged in the sewer line.
- Cracked, Collapsed, or Misaligned Pipes: These structural issues can’t be seen without a camera and can lead to sewage leaks or major property damage.
Once identified, you’ll receive a clear report of all findings – complete with video if needed – so you can see exactly what’s causing your sewer problems.
Why a Sewer Camera Inspection Saves You Money
Here’s the bottom line: A sewer camera inspection helps prevent unnecessary, expensive work by giving you exact information. Instead of digging up your yard or guessing where the issue lies, you can:
- Locate the exact point of damage or blockage
- Reduce labor costs by avoiding exploratory work
- Get clear repair recommendations
- Prevent future backups and property damage
This is especially valuable before buying a home, during major renovations, or when you’ve already spent money on temporary fixes that haven’t worked.
At Mattioni, we offer $93 main sewer line cleanings, which come with a free camera inspection as a part of our commitment to making smarter plumbing decisions more accessible to homeowners.
Get to the Bottom of Things with a Sewer Camera Inspection
Clogged drains and backups can often feel like a mystery, but with a sewer camera inspection, you’ll find the answers to what’s going on deep within your plumbing system. If you’re experiencing chronic clogs, backups, or signs of sewer trouble, don’t settle for guesswork – this one simple inspection could save you thousands.
With over 75 years of trusted service, the team of expert plumbers at Mattioni uses the latest camera technology to help homeowners find the real cause behind frustrating plumbing problems – and we’re ready to help you too
Don’t wait for a minor clog to turn into a major repair.
Call us today at (610) 400-8510 or click here to schedule your sewer camera inspection for $93 and take the first step toward a lasting solution.