Sewer Camera Inspection in Columbia, SC
Buying, selling, or investing in a property? Kevin runs a camera through the sewer line so you can see the real condition of the pipe before you close. You get a video of the line, and a written report if you want one.
Why scope the sewer line before you buy
- A standard home inspection does not look inside the buried sewer line.
- In Columbia Water's service area the private sewer lateral belongs to the property owner, so a failed line becomes the buyer's repair after closing.
- Sewer line replacement is a major repair. Published national figures run from a few thousand dollars to well over $10,000, depending on length, depth, and what is built over the line.
- Standard homeowners insurance usually does not pay to repair a sewer line that has worn out or been invaded by roots. Some policies offer optional service line coverage, so check yours. Without it, the repair is out of your pocket.
- With a video and a report in hand, a buyer can ask the seller for repairs, a credit, or a lower price before the inspection period runs out.
- Investors buying flips and rentals, especially older homes and lots with mature trees, use the scope to avoid inheriting a failing line.
- Sellers can scope before listing, so problems are fixed or disclosed on their own terms.
What the camera can find
- Tree roots growing into the pipe
- Cracks, broken joints, and collapsed sections
- Bellies, low spots that hold water and waste
- Offsets where pipe sections have shifted
- Pipe material and general condition
- Grease, scale, and buildup
What you get
- A video of the line. It comes with every inspection.
- A written report if you want one.
- Honest options if something is wrong: clearing, a spot repair, or replacement.
How it works
- The camera goes in through the cleanout, so there is no digging.
- You see the pipe on a live monitor while the inspection is recorded.
- If roots or buildup block the camera, the line can be cleared and inspected again.
- You receive the video, and the report if you asked for it.
For realtors, home inspectors, investors, and property managers
Need the sewer line checked inside an inspection period? Call or text with the property address and your deadline. We work throughout Columbia and within about 30 miles, including Irmo, Cayce, West Columbia, Lexington, Forest Acres, Blythewood, Chapin, and Elgin.
Sewer camera inspection FAQ
Is a sewer camera inspection part of a normal home inspection?
Usually not. A standard home inspection does not look inside the buried sewer line, so a camera inspection is a separate service.
Do I get a copy of the video?
Yes. Every inspection comes with a video of the line. If you want a written report as well, just ask.
Who is responsible for the sewer line?
In Columbia Water's service area, the private sewer lateral is the property owner's responsibility. That is why a failed line becomes the new owner's repair bill after closing.
What if the camera cannot get through the line?
Roots or buildup can block the camera. In that case the line can be cleared and inspected again so you see the whole run.
How long does an inspection take, and what does it cost?
It depends on the length of the line and how easy the cleanout is to reach. Call or text us with the address and we will tell you. Sending a plumber out has an $89 house-call fee, which is credited toward the job if you move forward with work.
Sending a plumber out for an on-site inspection has an $89 house-call fee, which is credited toward the job if you move forward with the work.