Camera Inspections

Camera Inspections | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Oneida

From the moment our waterproof camera enters your lines, HEP’s technicians can see every inch of your plumbing in real time—pinpointing blockages, cracks, and corrosion without a single shovel hitting the ground. That detailed footage lets us share clear visuals with you on-site, so you can make confident decisions about repairs or preventive maintenance. It’s fast, it’s precise, and it saves Oneida homeowners hours of guesswork and unnecessary excavation.

Once we know exactly what’s happening underground, our team designs customized pipe upgrades that restore full flow and safeguard your property for decades. Whether we’re replacing worn cast iron, installing seamless PVC, or reinforcing vulnerable joints, you’ll get transparent estimates, tidy workmanship, and the peace of mind that comes with HEP’s satisfaction guarantee—all from a local crew committed to keeping Oneida’s water moving smoothly.

FAQs

What is a plumbing camera inspection and why do I need one?

A plumbing camera inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera through your drain or sewer line to capture real-time video of the pipe interior. In Oneida’s older homes, hidden issues such as root intrusion, scale buildup, cracks, or collapsed sections are common. A camera inspection pinpoints the exact location and nature of these problems without excavation, allowing us to recommend the most cost-effective repair or upgrade and to document pipe condition before you buy or sell a property.

How accurate is a sewer camera inspection for locating pipe problems?

Our cameras transmit live HD footage and pair with a sonde (radio transmitter) that sends depth and location data to a surface receiver. This lets our technician mark the problem spot on the ground within a few inches of precision. The accuracy greatly reduces guesswork, limits excavation to targeted areas, and helps determine whether a partial repair, spot lining, or full pipe replacement is needed.

When should I consider upgrading my pipes instead of repairing them?

Pipe upgrades are recommended when: (1) the line is made of outdated materials such as galvanized steel, Orangeburg, or thin-walled PVC; (2) more than 25–30 % of the pipe length is damaged or has repeated failures; (3) low water pressure or rusty water persists after isolated repairs; or (4) your insurance company requires replacement to maintain coverage. A camera inspection provides the evidence you need to decide if a complete upgrade is the smarter long-term investment.

What pipe materials do you recommend for replacements in Oneida’s climate?

For water supply lines we typically install Type L copper or PEX-a tubing, both of which withstand Oneida’s freeze–thaw cycles. For sewer and drain lines, SDR-35 PVC or high-density polyethylene (HDPE) is preferred because they resist corrosion, root intrusion, and ground shifts common in Central New York soils. In basements, we may use cast iron for its noise-reducing properties. Our team will review local code requirements and your budget before finalizing any material choice.

Will a camera inspection disrupt my household or business operations?

Disruption is minimal. Most inspections take 60–90 minutes and require only an accessible cleanout, toilet flange, or roof vent. You can continue regular activities except running large volumes of water while the camera is in the line. Because we don’t dig, there’s no mess, noise, or downtime. If we find that pipe upgrades are needed, we’ll schedule them at a time that suits your routine and, if possible, use trenchless methods to keep surfaces intact.

How much do camera inspections and pipe upgrades typically cost in Oneida?

A stand-alone residential camera inspection in Oneida ranges from $175 to $300, depending on pipe length and accessibility. Commercial inspections start around $350. If you proceed with repairs or upgrades through us, we credit part or all of that fee toward the project. Pipe replacement costs vary widely—about $75–$125 per linear foot for trenchless sewer lining and $50–$90 per linear foot for open-cut PVC replacement, excluding surface restoration. After the inspection, you’ll receive a detailed, no-obligation estimate that breaks down labor, materials, permits, and any restoration work.