When it comes to maintaining your home's plumbing, one question often arises: Is it better to inspect it yourself or call in a professional? 

Naturally, both approaches have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. As a homeowner who loves DIY inspections, I personally prefer doing it myself.

In this article, we'll analyze the pros and cons of each method and compare their differences to help you make an informed decision based on your specific situation.

What Is a Plumbing Inspection?

A plumbing inspection is a systematic evaluation process designed to assess the overall condition of your home’s plumbing system. It covers key components, including:

• Water supply lines

• Drain and waste pipes

• Water heaters

• Faucets, toilets, and connected appliances

• Sewer lines and main shut-off valves

By conducting an inspection, potential issues such as leaks, corrosion, clogs, or aging components can be detected early—before they develop into major and costly repairs. Both DIY enthusiasts and professional plumbers use tools like pressure gauges and dye tests. 

In recent years, the use of specialized equipment such as sewer inspection cameras has also become increasingly common, allowing for precise detection of hidden problems behind walls or underground.

DIY Plumbing Inspections

Pros of DIY Inspections

One of the biggest advantages of performing your own plumbing inspections today is how accessible the tools have become. Just a few years ago, sewer inspection cameras were primarily used by professionals, but now homeowners can purchase a reliable unit for between $200 and $1,000. That means instead of paying a plumber $150–$300 for a single visit, you can own your own camera and use it anytime—whether for routine checks or emergency troubleshooting.

Take, for example, a homeowner in Ohio who used his inspection camera to identify two slow leaks early, preventing water damage and saving more than $600 in potential repairs within a single year. In another case, a family in California detected a hidden underground leak during a regular DIY inspection, which helped them reduce their monthly water bill by nearly 15%.

What’s more, many trusted brands like Sanyipace now offer at least a one-year warranty on their inspection cameras, giving you confidence in your purchase and peace of mind with long-term use. It’s a smart, economical way to maintain your plumbing system, avoid expensive emergencies, and save money year-round.

Limitations of DIY Plumbing Inspections

• Takes a Little Practice – A sewer camera isn’t hard to use, but it does take a little time to read the instructions and figure things out the first time.

• Easy to Miss Small Stuff – When you’re new to it, it’s common to overlook early warning signs like light rust on a pipe, tiny cracks, or ventilation issues that a pro would catch right away.

• Not Always Easy to Interpret – Even if you spot something on the screen, it can be tough to know whether it’s a real problem or just normal wear and tear.

💡 Pro Tip: Many brands, like SANYIPACE sewer camera, offer video tutorials and user guides. Reaching out for these resources can help you get the hang of it much faster and feel more confident using your equipment.

Professional Plumbing Inspections

Professional plumbers possess the necessary professional qualities and skills, which are essential when inspecting large pipe systems. 

When you want to have your home's pipes inspected regularly, you should carefully consider the advantages and disadvantages of hiring a professional before making your final decision.

DIY And Professional Plumbing Inspections: The Different

Not sure whether to grab your tools DIY or call a pro? Here’s a clear comparison to help you decide which approach works best for your home and situation.

1. Cost & Budget

DIY: A one-time investment in a sewer camera (USD 200–1000) that can be reused for years. Ideal for homeowners who need regular inspections or manage multiple properties.

Professional: A single inspection typically costs between $ 150 and $ 800. Suitable for occasional check-ups or one-time assessments (e.g., before purchasing a home).

2. Ease of Use & Experience

DIY: Requires time to learn how to operate the equipment (via manuals or video tutorials) and interpret the footage. Best for hands-on users.

Professional: No learning curve—experts handle everything. Ideal for those who prefer a quick and hassle-free solution.

3. Accuracy & Results

DIY: Can identify common issues such as clogs, standing water, or root intrusions. Mainly used for personal reference.

Professional: Capable of detecting subtle cracks, hidden leaks, or structural damage. Provides formal reports usable for insurance or real estate purposes.

4. Convenience & Timing

DIY: Available anytime without appointments. Great for emergency checks or post-repair verification.

Professional: Requires scheduling but may offer urgent service. Often used during renovations or major home upgrades.

5. Recording & Reporting

DIY: Allows video recording, photo capture, and adding notes. Useful for personal tracking or sharing with plumbers.

Professional: Comes with certified reports including expert analysis and repair recommendations. Accepted for insurance claims or home sales.

6. Use Cases

DIY: Regular self-inspections to catch early signs of trouble (e.g., slow drains, root ingress). Perfect for landlords, multi-property owners, or seasonal maintenance.

Professional: Essential for home buying/selling where certified documentation is required. Critical when severe issues are suspected (e.g., sewage odor, major roots, or flooding).

Which Option Is Best for Your Situation?

Expert Tip: Combine Both Approaches

You don’t have to choose just one! Many savvy homeowners start with a DIY inspection, using tools like a pipe wrench and drain camera. If they find something suspicious—or need confirmation—they call in a professional to verify and handle repairs.

This hybrid approach keeps costs down while maintaining peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

For many homeowners, DIY plumbing inspections are a more budget-friendly alternative to professional services. But the right choice ultimately depends on your individual needs and comfort level.

If you enjoy hands-on projects and prefer handling routine maintenance, DIY is an excellent option. Not only can it help you save money, but it also keeps you closely connected to the condition of your home’s plumbing system.

On the other hand, if DIY isn’t your preference and you’d rather invest in peace of mind, hiring a professional is the way to go. Experts provide comprehensive inspections and address potential issues with precision—saving you time and ensuring everything is thoroughly assessed.

Finally, whichever path you choose, the most important thing is this: don’t neglect your pipes. Regular check-ups help prevent water damage, mold growth, and expensive emergency repairs.

If you’re leaning toward the DIY approach, consider investing in a reliable sewer inspection camera—it offers professional-grade visibility and boosts your confidence during inspections.

FAQ

Q1: How Often Should I Check My Plumbing?

We recommend inspecting your plumbing at least once a year. You should also check anytime you notice warning signs like leaks, slow-draining sinks, or changes in water pressure.

Q2: Is a Sewer Camera Easy to Use for Beginners?

Yes! Most modern sewer cameras are designed to be user-friendly. They often feature plug-and-play setups, simple screens, and flexible cables that are easy to guide through pipes.

Q3: Does Insurance Pay for a Professional Inspection?

Generally, no—most insurance plans don’t cover inspections unless they’re part of an approved claim. That said, having video evidence from an inspection can help if you need to document damage later.

Q4: Can I Rent a Sewer Camera?

Definitely! Rental sewer camera options are available at hardware stores and online. Renting works well for one-time use, but buying your own could be more cost-effective over time if you expect to inspect regularly.

Q5: Are Professional Inspections Really Worth It?

Yes, especially in certain situations—like if you own an older home, are buying or selling a property, or have ongoing plumbing issues. Pros can spot hidden problems that are easy to miss on your own.

Related reading: Is Sewer Camera Inspection Worth It?