Sewer Cameras
Sewer Cameras | Main Line Issues | Plumbing | Kelso
If slow drains, foul odors, or unexplained soggy patches have you wondering what’s happening beneath your Kelso property, HEP’s sewer camera team can give you the answers in crystal-clear HD. Our plumbers snake a rugged, high-definition camera through the line, livestreaming every inch of pipe to a tablet so you can actually see cracks, root intrusions, or bellies before they become expensive disasters. No guesswork, no unnecessary digging—just precise diagnostics backed by honest, local expertise.
Whether you own a historic downtown storefront or a newer home on the outskirts, we specialize in pinpointing main line issues quickly and planning cost-effective repairs on the spot. From real-time video clips emailed to your phone to transparent estimates that respect your budget, HEP turns a stressful plumbing mystery into an easy, informed decision. Book your Kelso camera inspection today and keep your underground infrastructure running as smoothly as the Cowlitz River.
FAQs
What is a sewer camera inspection and why is it useful for my Kelso home?
A sewer camera inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera through your main sewer line to record real-time video of the pipe’s interior. For Kelso homeowners, this non-destructive method quickly pinpoints blockages, cracks, root intrusions, and sagging sections without digging up your yard or driveway. The video evidence lets you—and your plumber—see the exact problem area, determine the pipe’s overall condition, and choose the most cost-effective repair strategy.
How do I know if my main sewer line needs a camera inspection?
Common warning signs include repeated drain clogs, gurgling toilets, sewage odors in the yard or basement, water backing up when you run the washing machine, or unusually lush patches of grass above the sewer path. If your Kelso property is older than 30 years, or you have large trees near the line, proactive camera inspections are highly recommended even before symptoms appear.
Will the camera inspection damage my pipes or landscaping?
No. The equipment is inserted through an existing clean-out, toilet flange, or small access opening. Because the process is completely trenchless, there is no excavation, and the flexible cable will not scratch or crack the pipe. Once the camera is removed, your plumbing system is left exactly as it was—only now you have a clear diagnosis of its condition.
What problems can a sewer camera detect in Kelso’s older clay or concrete mains?
The camera can identify root intrusions at joints, bellies (sagging sections that collect water), offset or collapsed pipe segments, corrosion, broken or missing pipe walls, grease buildup, and foreign objects. In Kelso, many pre-1970 homes still use clay or concrete pipes, both of which are vulnerable to shifting soils and tree root penetration; a camera inspection visually confirms the severity and precise location of these issues.
How much does a main line camera inspection cost in the Kelso area and what’s included?
Most standard residential inspections range from $250 to $350, depending on pipe length and accessibility. The fee typically covers travel to your Kelso address, setup, up to 150 feet of camera inspection, real-time narration, high-definition video recording, and a detailed written report with still images and repair recommendations. Some plumbers credit part of the inspection cost toward any repair work you authorize.
What happens after the camera inspection if a problem is found?
Your plumber will review the footage with you, explain the nature and exact location of the defect, and outline repair or replacement options. For minor root intrusions or grease clogs, hydro-jetting or augering may be sufficient. Cracked or collapsed sections might require trenchless pipe lining (CIPP) or spot repair. Severe damage could necessitate partial excavation. Because the camera provides a precise map, repairs are targeted, reducing labor time, property disruption, and overall cost.