The biggest problem with old houses is that after many years of use, many systems begin to age, crack, or become damaged. This is especially true for the drainage system, which often goes unnoticed.

Unlike walls that can be repainted, floors that can be refinished, or roofs that can be replaced, the drainage system operates underground or within walls, making it impossible to inspect with the naked eye. Therefore, for older houses, it is necessary to use a sewer camera to check whether there is any damage inside the pipes.

Why Do Older Homes Need a Sewer Inspection?

Sewer systems don’t last forever. Depending on the material used, pipes in older homes may already be at or beyond their expected lifespan. For example:

• Clay pipes were common before the 1970s, but are highly prone to cracking and root intrusion.

• Cast iron pipes used between the 1940s and 1970s can corrode, scale, and eventually collapse.

• Orangeburg pipes (made from tar paper) were popular in the mid-1900s but often fail within 30–50 years.

On top of aging materials, older neighborhoods often have mature trees. Roots naturally search for moisture and can break into even tiny cracks in sewer lines, causing blockages or collapses over time.

Other risks in older homes include:

• Settling and shifting soil: Decades of ground movement can misalign joints or create bellies (low spots) in pipes where waste accumulates.

• Previous repairs or additions: Old DIY fixes, poor connections, or even hidden illegal tie-ins can lead to chronic problems.

• Grease, debris, and mineral buildup: Decades of use mean decades of buildup inside pipes.

A sewer inspection gives homeowners and buyers the chance to detect these problems before they turn into costly emergencies. Replacing or repairing a sewer line can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000, depending on the scope. Spending a few hundred dollars—or investing in your own inspection camera—can save tens of thousands later.

What Are the Main Areas to Inspect?

A thorough sewer inspection focuses on several key parts of the system:

1. Main Sewer Line

This is the backbone of your system, carrying waste from the house to the city connection or septic tank. Inspectors check for cracks, corrosion, tree roots, and collapsed sections.

2. Branch Lines

These are smaller pipes connecting toilets, sinks, and tubs to the main line. While harder to scope, inspecting them can reveal blockages or partial failures that affect specific fixtures.

3. Pipe Joints and Connections

Joints are weak points. A camera inspection can reveal if they are misaligned, leaking, or letting roots inside.

4. Slope and Flow

Sewer lines need a consistent downward slope. A belly or dip in the pipe traps water and waste, leading to recurring clogs. Cameras show if water sits still in certain areas.

4. Cleanouts

Many older homes lack accessible cleanouts, making maintenance harder. An inspection reveals whether one exists or should be added.

5. City Connection or Septic Inlet

The final stretch of pipe before it connects to municipal systems or a septic tank is another failure point. Camera inspections ensure this transition is intact.

DIY vs. Professional Plumber: Which Is Better?

My suggestion is to try DIY inspections whenever possible, and only hire a plumber when the problem becomes too difficult to handle on your own.

Plumbers have the experience and professional tools to quickly diagnose issues and provide solutions, but their inspections typically cost between $200 and $800. Compared to DIY, hiring a plumber is much more expensive.

The reason I recommend homeowners start with DIY inspections is that after using the camera once or twice, the cost of the equipment often pays for itself—especially in older homes where clogs, cracks, and blockages tend to occur more frequently.

That said, whether you choose DIY or a professional, the best option is always the one that solves your problem effectively.

How Do I Choose a Sewer Camera for My House?

When buying a sewer camera for your home, it’s important to start with your purpose—are you looking for a basic model or one with advanced features? Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Cable Length – For residential use, a cable length of 50 to 100 feet is usually sufficient.

2. Camera Quality – Choose at least 720p or 1080p resolution with built-in LED lights for clear viewing.

3. Self-Leveling Function – Decide if you need a self-leveling camera head that keeps images upright at all times.

4. Monitor and Recording – Some cameras come with built-in monitors, while others connect to a phone or laptop. Recording is useful for documentation, especially if you plan to sell your home and want proof of a clean inspection.

5. Durability – Pipes can be tough environments. Look for IP68 waterproof stainless steel or aluminum camera heads designed to withstand impact, water, and debris.

6. Locator Function – High-end models include a locator that works with a handheld receiver above ground to mark the exact problem area—saving thousands in unnecessary digging.

7. Price Range – Entry-level cameras range from $200–$500, mid-range models cost $600–$1,500, and professional systems start at $2,000+. For most homeowners, a mid-range device offers the best balance between quality and value.

If you’re unsure, always check customer reviews, warranty terms, and consider how often you’ll realistically use the camera before making your choice.

Summary

In conclusion, we always recommend regular sewer inspections for older homes. As time passes, many materials and structures naturally deteriorate. Without periodic inspections, a sudden major issue could end up costing you a lot of time and money to repair.

Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional plumber, inspections are always a smart move. But if you want to save money, now is the perfect time to invest in your own sewer camera and start inspecting with confidence!

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FAQ

1. How Often Should I Inspect My Sewer Line?

For older homes, a good rule of thumb is every 6–12 months. If you have large trees nearby, inspections every 6 months are recommended.

2. What Signs Indicate I May Already Have a Sewer Problem?

Frequent clogs, gurgling drains, foul sewage odors, slow-flushing toilets, or unusually lush patches of grass in the yard can all signal trouble.

3. If I Buy a Sewer Camera, Will I Still Need a Plumber?

Yes, in many cases you will. A camera helps you identify issues, but major repairs or pipe replacements should still be handled by a licensed professional.

4. Does Homeowners' Insurance Cover Sewer Line Repairs?

Usually not, unless the damage is caused by a sudden covered event such as a storm. Most policies don’t cover gradual wear and tear, though some insurers sell separate sewer line protection plans.