Camera Inspections
Camera Inspections | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Chattanooga
When water backs up at the worst possible moment, Chattanooga homeowners want answers fast. HEP’s licensed plumbers thread a high-resolution camera through your sewer line, giving you a crystal-clear view of what’s happening beneath the surface. Whether it’s intrusive tree roots, a sagging pipe, or a mystery obstruction, our live video feed pinpoints main line issues in real time, so you know exactly where the problem lies and how we’ll fix it.
Because we can see the problem before we dig, you save time, money, and the headache of unnecessary yard damage. We’ll share the footage with you, explain every finding in plain English, and outline repair options right on the spot. From historic Southside homes to new builds on Signal Mountain, trust HEP’s camera inspections to keep your plumbing flowing smoothly.
FAQs
What is a sewer camera inspection and how does it work?
A sewer camera inspection is a non-invasive diagnostic service in which a high-resolution waterproof camera is inserted into your home’s main sewer or drain line. The camera is attached to a flexible rod that snakes through the pipe while transmitting live video to a monitor above ground. Our technician can see the pipe’s interior condition in real time, note the exact depth and location of any issue with an electronic locator, and record the footage for your review. This process lets us identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, or misaligned sections without the need for exploratory digging.
When should I schedule a camera inspection for my main sewer line?
Schedule an inspection whenever you notice persistent drain backups, gurgling toilets, unexplained wet spots in the yard, or foul sewer odors inside the house. Chattanooga’s mix of older clay and cast-iron sewer laterals and newer PVC lines means age-related issues are common, especially in homes built before the 1980s. We also recommend an inspection before purchasing a home, after major storms or floods, and every 2–3 years as preventative maintenance if mature trees are near the sewer line.
What problems can a drain camera inspection detect in my Chattanooga home?
The camera reveals a wide range of issues specific to our local soil and climate, including: • Tree-root invasion, especially from the area’s abundant oak and maple trees. • Pipe bellies or sags caused by shifting red clay soils. • Cracked, broken, or collapsed sections in aging clay or cast-iron pipes. • Grease buildup, scale, or foreign objects obstructing flow. • Offset joints where sections have shifted apart. • Inflow of groundwater through separated joints, which can overload the municipal system and cause backups.
Will a camera inspection damage my pipes or landscaping?
No. The process is entirely trenchless. The camera and push rod enter through an existing clean-out, toilet drain, or small access point, so no digging is required to view the line. The equipment is designed to glide through pipes without scratching or stressing them, and we never use chemicals or pressurized water during an inspection. Your lawn, driveway, and foundation remain untouched while we gather the information needed for accurate repairs.
How much does a main line camera inspection cost in Chattanooga and what’s included?
Most standard residential inspections range from $225 to $350, depending on pipe length and accessibility. The price includes: • A full video scan of up to 150 ft of main line. • Electronic locating to mark the depth and position of any defects. • Digital video or cloud link you can keep for insurance or real-estate records. • A written report with still images, findings, and repair recommendations. • Up-front, flat-rate pricing—no trip or disposal fees. Ask about our bundled packages that pair inspection with hydro-jetting or preventive root treatment for a discounted rate.
What are the next steps after the inspection if problems are found?
Once the inspection is complete, our licensed Chattanooga plumbers will review the footage with you on-site or via a secure online portal. We’ll explain each finding, its severity, and the potential consequences of leaving it untreated. You’ll receive a detailed estimate for repair options such as spot repair, trenchless pipe lining, or full line replacement. Because the camera pinpoints the exact location of the defect, we can often limit excavation to a small targeted area or choose a no-dig solution, saving you time and restoration costs. You’re under no obligation to proceed with repairs, but if you do, the inspection fee is credited toward the work within 30 days.