Slow drains. Recurring clogs. Mysterious odors. If you’re experiencing these frustrating plumbing issues, chances are something is happening deep within your pipes—and guessing won’t solve it. For homeowners, a professional camera inspection offers a clear and accurate way to get answers without tearing up your yard or guessing at the cause.
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, we provide expert residential sewer camera inspections across Southern California to help homeowners diagnose hidden plumbing problems and make smarter repair decisions. Here’s why this service is becoming a must-have for anyone dealing with persistent plumbing concerns.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection uses a waterproof, high-resolution camera attached to a flexible rod that’s inserted into your home’s main drain line. As it travels through the pipes, the camera sends real-time video to a monitor, allowing a trained plumber to:
- Identify clogs, tree root intrusion, or broken pipes
- Pinpoint the exact location of the issue
- Assess the condition of aging plumbing
- Avoid unnecessary digging or demolition
This minimally invasive process is fast, precise, and can uncover problems that traditional methods would miss entirely.
Common Problems Found During Residential Inspections
Many plumbing issues don’t originate inside the home but rather in the underground pipes leading to the main sewer line. Camera inspections can uncover:
1. Tree Root Intrusion
Tree roots are drawn to the moisture in sewer lines. If there are even the tiniest cracks or joints in your pipes, roots can infiltrate and cause major blockages.
2. Pipe Bellies or Sags
Over time, pipes can shift or settle, creating low spots (called bellies) that collect water and waste. This leads to slow drains and repeated clogs.
3. Cracks, Corrosion, or Collapsed Lines
Older homes may have clay, cast iron, or Orangeburg pipes that deteriorate over time. A camera inspection reveals structural weaknesses before they cause a total failure.
4. Grease Buildup and Obstructions
Even small items like soap scum, grease, or hygiene products can create obstructions. Inspections show exactly what’s inside so your plumber can choose the right solution.
When Should You Schedule a Camera Inspection?
Homeowners often wait until there’s a major problem to call in the pros—but that can lead to more expensive repairs. Here are some smart times to consider a sewer camera inspection:
- You have recurring drain problems that never fully go away
- You’re purchasing a home and want to inspect the condition of the plumbing
- Your yard has unexplained soggy spots or foul odors
- You’re planning a bathroom remodel and need to confirm your system can handle the load
- Your home is over 20 years old and hasn’t had a plumbing inspection
A one-time inspection can prevent thousands of dollars in repairs and give you peace of mind.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Once the inspection is complete, our team at Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter will provide:
- A full video recording or live demonstration of what we found
- A clear explanation of any issues identified
- Professional recommendations for repair or replacement
- Upfront pricing and honest guidance—no pressure, no guesswork
Because the camera pinpoints the exact location and nature of the problem, you avoid unnecessary digging, excessive labor charges, and repeated service calls.
See the Problem, Solve It Right the First Time
Sewer camera inspections take the guesswork out of plumbing repairs. Whether you’re buying a home, troubleshooting recurring issues, or just want to avoid future surprises, this diagnostic tool is one of the smartest investments you can make as a homeowner.
At Lincoln Plumbing & Rooter, we bring state-of-the-art technology and years of plumbing expertise to every job. Call (909) 780-0887 today to schedule your residential camera inspection and get a clear view of what’s really happening in your pipes.
