To maintain the proper functioning of our home's plumbing, many people opt for regular inspections to check for issues—or only think to look when problems arise. So what exactly can go wrong inside these pipes?

In this article, we’ve combined real-world experience with feedback from numerous users to compile a list of the most common problems discovered within drainage systems. Let’s take a look together！

Using a drain camera can often help you detect the following issues:

1. Tree Root Intrusion

2. Pipe Cracks and Breaks

3. Corrosion and Pipe Deterioration

4. Blockages and Build-Ups

5. Misaligned or Offset Pipes

6. Collapsed or Sagging Sections ("Bellies")

7. Leaks and Water Infiltration

8. Improper Connections or Installation Errors

9. Evidence of Past Repairs or Patches

10. Unexpected Animal Intrusions

11. Lost Personal Items

12. Odd Debris and Foreign Objects

13. Potential Health Hazards

Next, let me break down the causes of each problem one by one.

1. Tree Root Intrusion

One of the most common and damaging issues inside sewer lines is tree root intrusion. Roots naturally grow toward moisture, and if there are even small cracks or loose joints in your pipes, roots can find their way in. 

Over time, they expand and cause major blockages or even break the pipe entirely. This is especially common in older clay or cast iron pipes.

2. Pipe Cracks and Breaks

Pipes don’t last forever. Shifts in soil, heavy traffic above ground, or just natural aging can lead to cracks and breaks. These weak points allow wastewater to escape and groundwater to enter, creating both plumbing inefficiency and potential contamination around your home.

3. Corrosion and Pipe Deterioration

If your home is quite old, the metal pipes may already be corroded. Older galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, in particular, are highly prone to corrosion.

Corroded pipes restrict water flow and may eventually collapse if the deterioration becomes severe.

We recommend using inspection equipment regularly to check your pipes. This helps detect hidden issues early and prevents more serious pipe problems in the future.

4. Blockages and Build-Ups

Everyday use of drains means grease, soap scum, food waste, and other debris can accumulate over time. In some cases, foreign objects that shouldn’t be flushed end up stuck in the line, creating serious clogs. A plumbing camera helps identify exactly where and what the blockage is, saving time and cost on repairs.

5. Misaligned or Offset Pipes

Over time, soil movement can cause pipes to shift out of position. If the pipe joints become misaligned, it can not only disrupt water flow but also cause debris to accumulate at the offset, leading to more severe blockages or pipe erosion. 

Regular inspections of the plumbing system can help detect such issues early and prevent further damage.

6. Collapsed or Sagging Sections ("Bellies")

A sewer belly forms when a section of the pipe sinks due to poor soil compaction or ground movement. This creates a low point where water and debris collect, eventually causing backups. In severe cases, sections may even collapse entirely.

7. Leaks and Water Infiltration

Leaks may not always be obvious at first, but they can cause long-term damage if left untreated. Sewer cameras can reveal tiny leaks that lead to soil erosion, foundation issues, or foul odors around the property.

8. Improper Connections or Installation Errors

Not all plumbing jobs are done right the first time. Sometimes, cameras uncover poorly joined pipes, cross-connections, or makeshift fixes that don’t meet code. These mistakes can create ongoing problems until they’re corrected.

9. Evidence of Past Repairs or Patches

A sewer inspection can also reveal whether the line has been patched or relined. Trenchless repair methods like cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) are common today, but if not installed correctly, the lining may blister or separate.

Inspectors often find failed repairs in about 1 in 10 homes with patched systems. This allows buyers or homeowners to budget for eventual replacement instead of being blindsided.

10. Unexpected Animal Intrusions

Snakes, frogs, and rodents occasionally show up on the inspection camera. While rare, it’s not unheard of—especially in rural areas.

Example: A plumber in Florida documented a 3-foot black snake discovered in a sewer line during a camera inspection. While harmless, the snake had startled the homeowner with noises in the pipes for weeks.

11. Lost Personal Items

Inspections sometimes uncover lost valuables. Rings, necklaces, keys, and toys have all been retrieved from sewer lines.

Real case: In 2022, a homeowner in California used a sewer camera to recover a diamond engagement ring that had fallen into his sink after an inspection of the camera revealed it was snagged on a fitting just 12 feet from the sink.

12. Odd Debris and Foreign Objects

It’s not unusual for inspectors to find unexpected objects in sewer lines:

• Construction debris like bricks, cement, or wood (especially after renovations)

• Plastic bottles and trash washed in from storm drains

• Rags, clothing, or even tools accidentally flushed or dropped

These discoveries often explain recurring clogs that otherwise seem mysterious.

13. Potential Health Hazards

Finally, inspections can uncover conditions that threaten health. Leaking sewage contaminates soil and groundwater, while backups inside the home can spread dangerous bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella. The CDC notes that even brief exposure to raw sewage can cause gastrointestinal illness, skin infections, or respiratory problems.

Early inspections reduce the risk of families being exposed to these hazards.

Why Sewer Inspections Matter?

The issues above illustrate just how much can go wrong inside a sewer line. Without an inspection, many of these problems stay hidden until they create expensive emergencies. By scheduling routine sewer inspections—especially before buying a home—you can:

• Catch problems early and avoid costly repairs.

• Extend the life of your sewer system.

• Make informed decisions during home purchases.

• Protect your home from sewage backups and water damage.

• Safeguard your family’s health.

Data point: The National Association of Realtors reports that about 15% of home sales fall through due to major inspection issues, with sewer line failures being a top culprit in older homes. Spending a few hundred dollars on a sewer inspection can prevent a buyer from inheriting a five-figure repair bill.

Conclusion

Think of a sewer inspection as a routine health check-up for your home’s plumbing. It helps you spot hidden issues—from root intrusions and corrosion to cracks, misaligned pipes, or unexpected blockages—before they turn into costly emergencies.

That’s why more homeowners are choosing to invest in their own sewer inspection camera. For around $300, you can regularly examine your pipes on your own schedule, catching small problems early and avoiding thousands in repairs.

Remember: what you don’t see can still hurt you—and your wallet. With an inspection camera, you take the guesswork out of maintenance and keep your home safe, smooth-running, and worry-free.