Updated November 1, 2026 · Reviewed for accuracy by a licensed Uniform plumber before publication
When a camera inspection helps
- Clogs that keep coming back
- Main-line backups
- Before buying an older home
- Before and after root clearing or jetting
- To decide between repair and replacement
What it shows
| Finding | What it means |
|---|---|
| Roots | Roots have entered through a joint or crack. |
| Offset joint | Pipe sections have shifted, catching waste. |
| Belly (sag) | A low section where water and waste collect. |
| Crack or break | Structural damage that will keep causing problems. |
| Buildup | Grease or scale narrowing the line. |
How it works
A waterproof camera on a flexible cable goes in through a cleanout. The plumber watches a live feed and can locate problems from above ground. Where offered, you receive the video or stills and a short written summary of findings.
Limits
A camera can't see through standing water or a full blockage, so the line is often cleared first. It shows the inside of the pipe, not the soil around it. And it can't say exactly how long a line will last, only its current condition.