Most residential sewer camera inspections take 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish, though the exact duration depends on the length of your line, the number of access points, and the condition of your pipes. Our technicians at Blackmon Plumbing follow a systematic approach that ensures nothing is missed, even if it means taking additional time to document critical findings.
The inspection process begins at your main sewer cleanout, typically located in your yard or basement. This is where our licensed plumber (MPL-38162) connects the camera equipment—a flexible, waterproof line with a high-resolution camera head and LED lighting. From this starting point, we feed the camera through your entire lateral line toward the municipal connection, capturing real-time video footage of every section of pipe. As we advance the camera, our technician monitors the live feed on a portable display unit, noting the pipe material, diameter, slope, and any obstructions or damage.
For a standard residential property with a single line running 75 to 100 feet, the 30 to 45-minute window is typical. However, several factors can extend this timeframe. Properties with multiple drain lines—such as a separate line from a kitchen sink or a secondary bathroom—require additional inspection passes. Older homes with cast iron or clay pipes may have more debris or mineral buildup that slows the camera's progress. If we encounter roots, grease clogs, or structural cracks, we document these thoroughly with precise location markers, which adds time but provides essential data for repair planning.
Complex properties—those with extensive footage, multiple access points, or known problem areas—often require 60 to 90 minutes. We don't artificially shorten inspections to save time. Our 19 years in business has taught us that rushing diagnostics leads to missed problems and expensive callbacks. A thorough inspection now prevents emergency repairs later.
Throughout the inspection, our technician uses location mapping technology to pinpoint problem areas by distance from the cleanout. This precision is invaluable when planning repairs. Once the camera passes through the entire accessible line, we compile the video footage and generate a detailed report with still images highlighting any issues. This documentation becomes your permanent record and is essential for insurance claims, property sales, or planning repairs with confidence.
Weather can also play a minor role—inspections during or immediately after heavy rain may take slightly longer if your line has standing water, as the camera needs to navigate carefully to avoid getting stuck.
Blackmon Plumbing provides comprehensive sewer camera inspections throughout the service area, delivering detailed video reports and expert recommendations for any issues discovered during your inspection.