Camera Inspections
Camera Inspections | Drain Opening | Plumbing | Altamont
When a stubborn clog lurks deep inside your pipes, HEP’s specialized camera inspections reveal the truth without guesswork or mess. Our technicians feed a high-definition, waterproof camera through your plumbing system, streaming real-time footage that pinpoints cracks, roots, and hidden obstructions beneath Altamont homes and businesses. Because we see exactly what’s happening underground, we can recommend the fastest, most affordable fix—saving you from unnecessary digging or repeat service calls.
Pairing this insight with expert drain opening, we clear blockages at their source and verify success on the spot, so you enjoy free-flowing pipes and total peace of mind. From historic cottages near Main Street to new builds on the outskirts, HEP delivers transparent pricing, courteous service, and repairs that last. Book your inspection today and watch your plumbing problems disappear before your eyes.
FAQs
What is a plumbing camera inspection and how does it work?
A plumbing camera inspection involves inserting a high-resolution, waterproof video camera attached to a flexible cable into your home’s clean-out or an accessible drain. As the technician feeds the cable through the line, live video is transmitted to a monitor above ground, allowing us to see the interior condition of every inch of pipe in real time. In Altamont, we typically push the camera as far as the city main connection, recording the footage and marking any problem spots with an electronic locator so that repairs or drain opening can be targeted precisely.
Why should I choose a camera inspection before scheduling a drain opening?
A camera inspection eliminates guesswork. It lets us confirm whether the blockage is caused by common debris, grease buildup, tree-root intrusion, a sagging section of pipe, or a collapsed line. Knowing the exact cause and location means we can pick the safest, most cost-effective drain-opening method—be it power snaking, hydro-jetting, or a sectional repair—saving you time and reducing the risk of repeat clogs. For Altamont homeowners who have older clay or cast-iron sewers, a pre-cleaning inspection also helps prevent accidental damage during clearing.
What kinds of problems can a sewer camera detect?
Our HD cameras can spot virtually any structural or flow issue, including root infiltration, cracks and fractures, offset joints, pipe corrosion, grease or soap buildup, bellies (low spots that collect water), foreign objects, and even lost items like jewelry. We also verify proper slope and check connections to the city main. After the inspection you receive a digital video file and a written report you can use for insurance claims or future remodel permits in Altamont.
Is camera inspection safe for old or fragile pipes?
Yes. The camera head is smooth, rounded, and smaller than most clogs we remove, so it glides through 1.5-inch to 6-inch lines without scraping or stressing the pipe walls. Because we see the internal condition in real time, we avoid aggressive clearing methods on fragile lines. If the inspection shows severe deterioration, we can recommend trenchless pipe lining or spot repairs instead of forceful drain opening techniques, minimizing further damage.
How long does a typical camera inspection and drain opening service take in Altamont?
For a single residential line, the inspection itself usually takes 20–30 minutes. If a blockage is found and cleared immediately afterward, total on-site time is about 60–90 minutes. Larger homes with multiple clean-outs or commercial properties can take longer, but we’ll give you a precise time window when we schedule your visit. Our technicians arrive with fully stocked trucks so most issues are resolved in one trip.
How much does the service cost, and is it covered by insurance?
In Altamont, a standalone camera inspection typically ranges from $199 to $249, depending on pipe length and access. When combined with drain opening, we discount the inspection fee, so most homeowners pay between $349 and $449 total. Severe root removal, hydro-jetting, or after-hours emergency calls may add to the price, but we provide a written estimate before any work begins. While routine maintenance isn’t usually covered by homeowners insurance, damage caused by sudden pipe collapse or tree-root intrusion may qualify; the inspection video and report serve as essential documentation for your claim.