Camera Inspection
Camera Inspection | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Alcoa
When a mysterious clog, leak, or foul odor threatens your Alcoa home, HEP’s camera inspection plumbing service shines a light on the hidden truth. Our high-definition scopes snake through every twist and turn, revealing cracks, corrosion, tree-root intrusions, and buildup without digging up your yard. You see the live footage, we explain the findings in plain English, and together we decide whether targeted repairs or full pipe upgrades are the smartest move for your budget and timeline.
Once the problem is crystal-clear, our licensed plumbers roll in with trenchless tools, durable materials, and decades of expertise. Whether you choose spot sealing, relining, or complete pipe upgrades, we handle the job quickly, cleanly, and with the rock-solid warranty Alcoa residents have trusted for years. Call HEP today and experience plumbing solutions that are as transparent as our camera lenses.
FAQs
What is a plumbing camera inspection and how does it work?
A plumbing camera inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera attached to a flexible rod through your home or business’s drain or sewer line. The live video feed allows our licensed technicians to see the exact interior condition of the pipe—locating cracks, root intrusions, bellies, or blockages—without digging or cutting into walls or concrete. In Alcoa we record the footage and provide you with a digital copy plus a written report so you can make informed decisions about repairs or upgrades.
Why should I schedule a camera inspection before upgrading pipes in Alcoa?
Upgrading pipes is an investment; a camera inspection ensures you upgrade only what’s necessary. The video identifies the pipe material (cast iron, clay, PVC, etc.), pinpoints problem areas, and measures pipe length and depth. This information lets us design the most cost-effective upgrade plan that meets Blount County and City of Alcoa plumbing codes, reduces unexpected costs, and prevents unnecessary demolition.
How long does a typical camera inspection take for a residential property?
Most single-family home inspections in Alcoa take 45–90 minutes, depending on the home’s size, the number of clean-outs, and how easily we can access the main sewer line. You can remain in the house during the process, and water service is usually interrupted for only a few minutes while we insert the camera.
What signs indicate I might need a pipe upgrade rather than just a simple repair?
Persistent slow drains, recurring backups, discolored or foul-smelling water, visible corrosion on exposed pipes, and low water pressure can all signal systemic piping issues. A camera inspection will reveal widespread scaling, multiple cracks, or sagging sections. If more than 25–30 % of the piping shows deterioration—or if the line is an outdated material such as Orangeburg or galvanized steel—an upgrade is typically more cost-effective and code-compliant than repeated spot repairs.
Are there local codes or material requirements I should know about when replacing pipes in Alcoa?
Yes. The City of Alcoa follows the 2018 International Plumbing Code with local amendments. For sewer laterals, Schedule 40 PVC or SDR-26 is commonly required; for potable water lines, PEX-A or Type L copper is accepted. All replacements must be inspected by the Alcoa Building & Codes Department, and any work in the public right-of-way also requires a permit from the City’s Public Works Division. Our team pulls all necessary permits and schedules inspections on your behalf.
What does a camera inspection and subsequent pipe upgrade typically cost in Alcoa?
A stand-alone sewer camera inspection starts at about $225 for residential properties within the Alcoa city limits. If a full upgrade is needed, costs vary based on pipe length, depth, and material but average $90–$150 per linear foot for trenchless replacement and $70 –$100 per foot for traditional excavation. We provide a detailed, written estimate after the inspection, and financing options are available for upgrades over $1,000.