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When should you get a sewer camera inspection?

If you’re buying, selling, remodeling, or dealing with slow drains, a sewer camera inspection can prevent expensive surprises. Here’s when it makes sense — and what an inspection-only report should include.

Sewer camera inspection video still

1) Before you buy or sell

A sewer line is one of the most expensive “hidden” systems in a home. When a deal is moving fast, it’s easy for the sewer to become an afterthought—until a backup, roots, or a break shows up right after closing.

  • Buyers: reduce risk before you commit.
  • Sellers: avoid last-minute renegotiations from unexpected findings.
  • Realtors: keep transactions smoother with clear, shareable documentation.
Simple rule: If a house is older, has large trees, or there’s any question about plumbing history, a sewer inspection is usually a smart move.

2) When you see symptoms

These are common reasons homeowners call:

  • Recurring slow drains or frequent clogs
  • Gurgling toilets or floor drains
  • Odors that come and go
  • Backups (even if they “went away”)
  • Soggy spots or unexplained wet areas in the yard

3) When sewer history is unknown

If you don’t know what’s been done to the line (or when), inspection provides a baseline so you can plan. This is especially useful for landlords, property managers, and anyone maintaining multiple homes.

4) Before remodeling or repairs

A camera inspection helps confirm whether your issue is a localized blockage or something structural that should be addressed before you invest in new finishes or major work.

  • Before basement finishing
  • Before major plumbing changes
  • Before landscaping that could affect access

What you should get from an inspection-only report

A strong report makes decisions easier. At minimum, you want:

  • Video evidence of the line condition
  • Plain-language findings (what it means, not just technical terms)
  • Clear next-step guidance (not a sales pitch)
  • Shareable documentation for your contractor, agent, or property owner
Why inspection-only matters: GroundTruth doesn’t sell repairs — the deliverable is the documentation. That keeps the focus on facts.

Next step

If you’re ready, start with our sewer service page and book a time that fits your schedule.