Understanding Sewer Camera Inspections: What We Inspect and Document

Sewer camera inspections are crucial for diagnosing issues within your home’s sewer lines and ensuring proper function. At American Dream Property Inspections, we use advanced camera technology to inspect sewer lines, identifying problems that could impact your plumbing system and property.

Sewer Camera Video

Common Problems with Sewer Lines

1. Clogs and Blockages

Problem: Sewer lines can become clogged or blocked by debris, grease, or foreign objects, leading to slow drainage or backups.
Inspection Focus: We use a sewer camera to inspect the interior of the sewer lines for clogs or blockages. We document the location and severity of any obstructions and provide recommendations for clearing them.

2. Tree Root Intrusion

Problem: Tree roots can invade sewer lines, causing blockages, damage, or even collapse. Roots seek out moisture and can grow into small cracks or joints.
Inspection Focus: We look for signs of tree root intrusion using the sewer camera, including roots penetrating the pipes or causing damage. We document the extent of root intrusion and recommend solutions for removal and prevention.

3. Pipe Cracks and Damage

Problem: Sewer pipes can develop cracks or damage due to age, ground movement, or external pressures. Cracked or damaged pipes can lead to leaks and system failures.
Inspection Focus: We inspect the sewer pipes for cracks, breaks, or other damage. We document the location and extent of any issues and provide recommendations for repairs or replacements.

4. Pipe Misalignment

Problem: Sewer pipes can become misaligned due to shifting soil, settling, or poor installation. Misalignment can cause blockages or interfere with proper drainage.
Inspection Focus: We check for signs of pipe misalignment using the camera, assessing how misalignment affects the flow of waste. We document any misaligned sections and recommend corrective actions.

5. Corrosion and Deterioration

Problem: Sewer pipes, especially older ones, can corrode or deteriorate over time, leading to leaks or structural failures. Corrosion can be caused by chemical reactions or environmental factors.
Inspection Focus: We look for signs of corrosion or deterioration in the pipes, assessing the extent of damage. We document any affected areas and provide recommendations for addressing corrosion.

6. Bellies and Sagging

Problem: Sewer lines can develop bellies or sagging areas where the pipe has dipped. This can trap waste and cause blockages or backups.
Inspection Focus: We inspect for bellies or sagging in the sewer lines using the camera. We assess the impact of these issues on drainage and document any necessary repairs.

7. Leaks and Seepage

Problem: Leaks or seepage in sewer lines can cause water damage and contamination issues. Leaks can occur at joints, cracks, or damaged sections.
Inspection Focus: We check for signs of leaks or seepage in the sewer lines. We document the locations and extent of any leaks and provide recommendations for repairs.

8. Debris Accumulation

Problem: Accumulation of debris, such as grease or sediment, can obstruct sewer lines and affect drainage. This can lead to slow drainage or backups.
Inspection Focus: We inspect for debris accumulation within the sewer lines using the camera. We document the presence and extent of debris and recommend cleaning or maintenance procedures.

9. Pipe Material and Age

Problem: The material and age of sewer pipes can affect their condition and performance. Older materials may be more prone to issues such as cracks or corrosion.
Inspection Focus: We assess the material and age of the sewer pipes, evaluating their condition and potential risks. We document any issues related to pipe material and provide recommendations for upgrades or replacements.

10. System Functionality

Problem: Ensuring that the sewer system functions properly is crucial for avoiding backups and maintaining hygiene. Functional issues can arise from various problems within the sewer lines.
Inspection Focus: We evaluate the overall functionality of the sewer system, checking for proper flow and drainage. We document any functional issues and recommend solutions to maintain system efficiency.

What American Dream Property Inspections Looks For

At American Dream Property Inspections, we perform a detailed sewer camera inspection to identify and assess any issues within your sewer lines. Here’s what we specifically look for and document in our inspection report:

1. Pipe Condition and Integrity

We document the condition and integrity of the sewer pipes, including any signs of damage, corrosion, or blockages. We provide detailed descriptions and photographs of the pipe condition.

2. Location and Extent of Issues

We identify and document the location and extent of any issues found during the inspection, such as clogs, root intrusion, or pipe damage. We provide visual evidence and descriptions to help understand the problem.

3. Recommendations for Repairs

Based on our findings, we provide recommendations for necessary repairs or maintenance. This includes suggestions for clearing blockages, repairing damaged pipes, or addressing root intrusion.

4. System Maintenance Tips

We offer tips and best practices for maintaining your sewer system to prevent future issues. This includes advice on avoiding common problems and ensuring the longevity of your sewer lines.

5. Inspection Summary

Our inspection report includes a summary of findings, complete with photos, descriptions, and recommendations. This provides a comprehensive overview of the sewer system’s condition and any actions needed.

Conclusion

A thorough sewer camera inspection is essential for diagnosing and addressing issues within your sewer lines. At American Dream Property Inspections, we use advanced camera technology to provide a detailed assessment of your sewer system, ensuring that any problems are identified and documented in a clear and actionable report. Our reports include photos, descriptions, and recommendations, giving you the information you need to maintain and repair your sewer system effectively.