Camera Inspections
Camera Inspections | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Philadelphia
When your Philadelphia home starts showing warning signs like slow drains, foul odors, or unexpected water stains, HEP’s high-definition camera inspections zero in on the problem fast—without tearing up floors or walls. Our licensed technicians snake a waterproof camera through your plumbing, broadcasting crystal-clear images in real time so you can see every crack, clog, or corrosion spot for yourself. Armed with this precise intel, we recommend only what you truly need, saving you time, stress, and unnecessary repair costs.
Once the hidden issues are mapped out, our crew moves seamlessly into pipe upgrades that stand up to Philly’s challenging freeze-thaw cycles and historic housing stock. From trenchless relining that preserves your landscaping to durable PEX and copper replacements, we use top-tier materials and proven methods to future-proof your plumbing. Backed by upfront pricing, same-day service options, and a satisfaction guarantee, HEP keeps the water flowing and your peace of mind intact.
FAQs
What is a plumbing camera inspection and how does it work?
A plumbing camera inspection involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof video camera attached to a flexible rod through a clean-out, roof vent, or other accessible opening in your drain or sewer line. As the camera travels, it transmits real-time footage to a monitor above ground so our technician—and you, if you’d like—can see the exact interior condition of the pipe. The equipment is also equipped with a sonic transmitter that allows us to pinpoint the camera’s location and depth from the surface. This combination of live video and electronic locating lets us identify blockages, breaks, root intrusions, and the overall material and diameter of the line without any excavation.
Why are camera inspections especially important for Philadelphia properties?
Much of Philadelphia’s housing stock dates back to the late 1800s–1950s, when clay, cast-iron, or even Orangeburg pipes were commonly installed. These materials are prone to root penetration, corrosion, and collapse after decades of service. In addition, the city’s mature street trees, frequent freeze-thaw cycles, and heavy traffic loads can accelerate underground pipe failures. A camera inspection gives Philly homeowners hard evidence of existing or potential problems before they lead to sewage backups, sinkholes, or costly emergency excavations. It also satisfies disclosure requirements during real-estate transactions and can support permit applications for planned pipe upgrades.
What kinds of issues can a camera inspection uncover before I decide on a pipe upgrade?
The video survey can reveal: • Cracks, fractures, or missing sections in clay and cast-iron pipes. • Offsets or bellies (sags) that trap waste and water. • Grease, scale, or mineral buildup that narrows the flow path. • Root intrusion points and the severity of blockage. • Incorrect pitch or negative slope causing chronic slow drains. • Cross-bores with other utilities. • The exact pipe material and diameter, which helps us recommend the right upgrade method—trenchless lining, bursting, or full replacement.
Will the inspection require digging up my yard, sidewalk, or basement floor?
No. A camera inspection is completely non-invasive. We access the line through an existing clean-out, roof vent, toilet flange, or a small temporary opening made in a convenient section of pipe. Because the camera is only about an inch in diameter, there is no need to disturb landscaping, hardscape, or flooring. If we do discover damage that requires repair, we will show you the footage, explain the findings, and outline minimally invasive upgrade options before any digging is discussed.
How much does a sewer or drain camera inspection cost in Philadelphia, and is the fee applied to repairs?
For most single-family homes and small commercial properties in Philadelphia, our standard camera inspection ranges from $250 to $450, depending on line length, accessibility, and whether electronic locating is required. The price includes a narrated video file and written condition report suitable for insurance or real-estate purposes. If you hire us to perform a pipe upgrade within 60 days of the inspection, we credit 100% of the inspection fee toward the repair cost—effectively making the diagnostic service free.
After the camera inspection, what pipe upgrade solutions do you offer and how long do they take?
Based on the inspection results, we can recommend: • Trenchless CIPP (cured-in-place) pipe lining for structurally sound pipes with cracks or minor holes—usually completed in one day. • Pipe bursting to replace severely collapsed or undersized lines without open trenching—typically two days including setup. • Conventional excavation and replacement for pipes that cannot be rehabilitated trenchlessly—about two to three days for a typical 50–60 ft Philadelphia row-house sewer. • Water-service upgrades to replace old lead or galvanized supply lines with copper tubing—often finished in a single day once city permits are issued. All methods comply with Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) standards, and we handle permitting, traffic control, and final inspections, so you have a seamless start-to-finish experience.