How Much Does a Sewer Camera Inspection Cost?

Homeownership comes with its fair share of maintenance tasks, but few are as overlooked—or as vital—as your home’s sewer system. When problems strike underground, they can be difficult to diagnose without the right tools. That’s where sewer camera inspections come in. This technology allows plumbers to feed a specialized waterproof camera into your sewer line to identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, or other damage that might not be visible otherwise.

But before booking the service, most homeowners have the same question: how much does a sewer camera inspection cost?

In this article, we’ll break down the average costs, what factors influence pricing, why it’s worth the investment, and what you should expect during the inspection process.

Average Sewer Camera Inspection Cost

The price for a sewer camera inspection typically ranges between $100 and $800, with the national average hovering around $300–$500. The cost can vary widely depending on your location, the length of your sewer line, and whether the inspection is paired with additional services like cleaning or repairs.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Low-end costs ($100–$250): These inspections are usually offered as part of a promotional deal, bundled with a plumbing service, or for relatively simple systems with easy access.
Mid-range costs ($300–$500): This is the most common price homeowners pay for a stand-alone sewer camera inspection.
High-end costs ($600–$800+): If you live in an older home, need a lengthy line inspected, or require specialized equipment, you can expect costs at the higher end of the spectrum.

While the price may seem steep for a quick procedure, remember that it can save you thousands by catching sewer line issues early.

What Factors Affect Sewer Camera Inspection Cost?

Several variables influence what you’ll pay. Let’s explore the most important ones:

Geographic Location

Plumbing services vary by region. In large metropolitan areas, where the cost of living is higher, inspection fees tend to be more expensive than in smaller towns or rural areas.

Length and Accessibility of Sewer Line

The longer or harder-to-reach your sewer line, the more time and labor the plumber needs to perform the inspection. Older homes may also lack cleanouts, requiring extra work to access the line.

Type of Property

Commercial properties often require larger and more complex inspections compared to single-family homes, driving up the cost.

Bundled Services

Some plumbing companies offer sewer camera inspections at a reduced rate if you purchase other services, such as hydro jetting or pipe repair. While this can save money, it’s important to know what you’re actually paying for.

Emergency Services

Calling for an inspection outside normal business hours or during an emergency can add significant surcharges. If possible, schedule the inspection during regular business hours.

Technology Used

Not all inspection cameras are created equal. Some plumbing companies invest in high-resolution cameras with locating sensors that pinpoint exactly where damage is. These advanced systems can increase the cost but also provide more accurate results.

Why Is a Sewer Camera Inspection Worth the Cost?

Many homeowners hesitate at the price of a sewer camera inspection. However, the benefits far outweigh the cost. Here’s why:

Prevent Costly Repairs

A broken or collapsed sewer line can cost $3,000 to $30,000+ to replace, depending on the extent of the damage. Spending a few hundred dollars upfront to diagnose early problems is a smart financial move.

Pinpoint Issues Accurately

Traditional methods of diagnosing sewer problems often involve guesswork or digging up sections of your yard. Camera inspections eliminate the guesswork by showing plumbers exactly where the problem lies.

Verify Sewer Line Condition Before Buying a Home

If you’re purchasing an older home, a sewer camera inspection can reveal hidden issues that might not show up in a standard home inspection. It’s a small investment that could save you from buying a property with major hidden costs.

Peace of Mind

Even if no problems are found, knowing your sewer line is in good condition provides reassurance and allows you to budget for future maintenance.

What to Expect During a Sewer Camera Inspection

If you’ve never scheduled one before, here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens:

Setup: The plumber locates a suitable access point, often a cleanout or drain.
Camera Insertion: A flexible cable with a waterproof, high-definition camera is inserted into the sewer line.
Real-Time Footage: As the camera travels through the pipe, it sends live video back to a monitor. The plumber looks for cracks, corrosion, blockages, root intrusion, or other signs of trouble.
Recording & Report: Many companies provide a video recording of the inspection along with a detailed written report.
Recommendations: If issues are found, the plumber will suggest solutions such as cleaning, pipe lining, or replacement.

The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the length of the sewer line.

Signs You Might Need a Sewer Camera Inspection

Not every homeowner needs an inspection every year. However, certain warning signs suggest it’s time to call in the pros:

Frequent drain clogs or backups in sinks, tubs, or toilets.
Slow draining water throughout the home.
Unpleasant odors coming from drains or the yard.
Gurgling sounds in toilets or drains.
Lush patches of grass or soggy spots in the yard (a potential leak in the sewer line).
Older homes (40+ years old) that may have clay or cast-iron pipes prone to deterioration.

If you notice any of these red flags, scheduling an inspection could prevent bigger headaches.

How to Save Money on Sewer Camera Inspections

While you can’t always avoid the cost, here are some tips to keep it manageable:

Shop Around: Get at least three quotes from reputable plumbers to compare pricing.
Ask About Promotions: Some companies offer seasonal discounts or bundle deals.
Check if It’s Included: If you’re already scheduling a major plumbing repair, ask if the inspection can be added at little or no extra cost.
Use Inspections Strategically: Don’t schedule them unnecessarily. Reserve them for when you suspect a problem or before a property purchase.

DIY Sewer Camera Inspections: Worth It?

For handy homeowners, renting a sewer inspection camera may seem like a money-saving option. Rental costs range from $100 to $250 per day. However, these systems can be difficult to maneuver, and interpreting the footage requires professional training.

Unless you’re confident in your plumbing knowledge, hiring a professional ensures accurate results and reduces the risk of misdiagnosing a problem.

Is It Worth the Price?

The sewer camera inspection cost may feel like an unnecessary expense at first glance. But when you weigh it against the potential cost of repairing or replacing a damaged sewer line, it’s one of the most cost-effective investments you can make in your home.

By understanding the factors that influence cost and knowing when to schedule an inspection, you can protect your property, save money, and gain peace of mind.

So, the next time you notice recurring plumbing issues or consider purchasing an older home, remember: a few hundred dollars spent on a sewer camera inspection today could save you thousands tomorrow.