Professional CCTV Sewer Camera Inspections in Toronto
When a drain or sewer line keeps backing up, cleaning the pipe may only solve the immediate problem. A sewer camera inspection can show what is actually happening inside the pipe and help determine whether the problem is caused by tree roots, grease, a damaged pipe, a collapsed section, a separated joint, or another obstruction.
Mister Plumber provides professional drain and sewer camera inspections in Toronto and the GTA using waterproof CCTV inspection cameras. Our licensed plumbers can inspect underground and above-ground drainage pipes, locate defects, measure their distance from the access point, and help determine the most appropriate repair or cleaning method.
A camera inspection can often identify a sewer problem without excavation, helping homeowners avoid unnecessary digging and make informed decisions about repairs.
Call 416-939-1530 to schedule a sewer camera inspection.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection uses a small, waterproof video camera attached to a flexible push cable. The camera is inserted into an accessible drain or sewer pipe and travels through the piping while transmitting live video to a monitor.
High-intensity LED lighting allows the plumber to see the inside of dark underground pipes and identify problems that cannot be diagnosed reliably from the surface.
Depending on the pipe and access conditions, a CCTV inspection can reveal:
- – Tree root intrusion
- – Cracked or broken sewer pipes
- – Separated or misaligned pipe joints
- – Collapsed or partially collapsed pipes
- – Heavy grease and sludge buildup
- – Mineral scale and internal corrosion
- – Objects or debris obstructing the pipe
- – Pipe offsets and damaged connections
- – Depressions or bellies in underground piping
- – Problems with older clay, cast iron, ABS, PVC, or other drain materials
A sewer camera inspection provides visual information that can be extremely valuable before deciding whether a drain should be cleaned, repaired, replaced, or left alone.
What Can a Sewer Camera Inspection Tell You?
A professional CCTV inspection does more than simply show a blockage.
Our sewer technicians can use the camera system to:
See the inside of the pipe
Live video allows us to examine the condition of the drain or sewer line and identify visible defects or obstructions.
Determine the location of a problem
The camera cable can be measured as it travels through the pipe. This helps determine the approximate distance between the access point and a blockage or damaged section.
Locate the problem from the surface
Many professional sewer cameras can transmit an electromagnetic signal that can be detected using a locating device. This allows the technician to identify the approximate underground location and depth of the camera.
This information can be particularly useful when planning excavation, sewer repair, pipe replacement, or trenchless sewer work.
Record the inspection
When appropriate, inspection footage can be recorded for your records. A video or inspection documentation can be useful when discussing repair options, purchasing or selling a home, or documenting the condition of a sewer line.
When Should You Get a Drain or Sewer Camera Inspection?
A camera inspection isn’t necessary for every clogged drain. However, it can be especially valuable when there are recurring problems or when the condition and location of the pipe are uncertain.
Consider a sewer camera inspection if you experience:
Frequent drain blockages
If the same drain or sewer line becomes blocked repeatedly, there may be an underlying problem that ordinary drain cleaning cannot permanently resolve.
Slow drains throughout the house
Multiple slow fixtures can indicate a problem with a larger branch drain or the main sewer line rather than an isolated fixture blockage.
Recurring sewage backups
Repeated backups can be caused by roots, damaged or shifted pipes, severe buildup, pipe depressions, or collapsed sections of sewer line. A camera can help identify the cause.
Gurgling or bubbling drains
Unusual gurgling sounds can occur when wastewater and air are not moving normally through the drainage system. A camera inspection may help determine whether a restriction or other pipe problem is contributing to the issue.
Foul sewer odours
Persistent sewer smells may have several causes. If a damaged or leaking drain or sewer pipe is suspected, a camera inspection can help investigate the condition of accessible piping.
A blockage that keeps coming back
If a drain works normally immediately after snaking but becomes blocked again weeks or months later, there may be a structural problem inside the pipe.
An older sewer line
Older Toronto properties may have clay, cast iron, or other aging drainage materials. A proactive camera inspection can identify problems before they result in an emergency backup.
Sewer Camera Inspection Before Buying or Selling a Toronto Home
A standard home inspection does not necessarily provide a detailed assessment of underground sewer piping.
If you are purchasing an older Toronto home, a separate sewer camera inspection can provide valuable information about the condition of the private sewer line.
For buyers, an inspection may identify defects that could otherwise become an expensive surprise after closing.
For sellers, documenting the condition of the sewer line can provide prospective buyers with additional information about the property.
A sewer camera inspection can be particularly worthwhile for older homes with clay sewer pipes, a history of drain backups, mature trees near the sewer line, or previous sewer repairs.
Sewer Camera Inspection Before Renovations
Underground drainage should be considered before major plumbing renovations.
If you are adding a bathroom, relocating plumbing fixtures, finishing a basement, or modifying the drainage system, a camera inspection can help establish the location and condition of existing underground piping.
Knowing where existing drain lines run can help with renovation planning and reduce the risk of discovering an unexpected damaged sewer pipe after construction has already started.
Sewer Camera Inspection for Backwater Valve Installation
A sewer camera inspection can also be useful when planning a backwater valve installation.
In older Toronto homes, the location, depth, direction, and condition of the main drain are not always obvious from the basement. Existing drawings may be unavailable or may not accurately represent the current underground plumbing.
Camera inspection and pipe locating can help the plumber:
- – Identify the main drain
- – Determine the direction of the sewer line
- – Estimate the location and depth of the pipe
- – Assess the condition of the existing drain
- – Identify potential obstructions
- – Plan an appropriate location for the backwater valve
This can reduce unnecessary excavation and help the plumber plan the installation based on the actual conditions found at the property.
What Happens During a Sewer Camera Inspection?
The exact procedure depends on the property’s plumbing layout and available access, but a typical inspection follows these steps.
1. We identify the best access point
The plumber first determines where the camera can safely enter the drainage system.
An existing cleanout is often the preferred access point. Depending on the plumbing configuration, access may also be possible through another suitable drain opening or, in some circumstances, after temporarily removing a toilet.
2. The camera is inserted into the pipe
The waterproof camera is carefully pushed through the drain or sewer line while the plumber monitors the live video.
3. The pipe is inspected
The technician looks for blockages, roots, cracks, separated joints, corrosion, buildup, pipe deformation, collapses, and other visible conditions.
4. The location of defects can be determined
The distance traveled by the camera can help establish how far a problem is from the access point. When appropriate, the camera’s locating transmitter can also be used to identify the approximate surface location and depth.
5. The findings are explained
After the inspection, the plumber reviews the findings and explains what was observed inside the pipe.
If a problem is identified, we can discuss the available options, which may include drain cleaning, localized repair, sewer pipe replacement, or trenchless sewer replacement.
What Happens After a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A camera inspection is a diagnostic service. The appropriate next step depends on what is found inside the pipe.
Drain snaking
If the camera identifies a relatively straightforward obstruction, drain snaking may be sufficient to restore flow.
Mechanical drain cleaning uses a rotating cable and appropriate cutting or cleaning tools to break through or remove many types of blockages.
Hydro jetting
For certain sewer and drain lines with substantial grease, sludge, scale, or other buildup, high-pressure water jetting may provide a more thorough cleaning.
Hydro jetting is not appropriate for every pipe. The condition, material, size, configuration, and accessibility of the piping should be considered before using high-pressure equipment.
Drain or sewer repair
If the inspection reveals a localized crack, damaged joint, or other repairable defect, a targeted repair may be possible.
Sewer pipe replacement
Severely damaged, collapsed, extensively deteriorated, or repeatedly problematic sewer lines may require replacement.
Depending on site conditions, traditional excavation or a trenchless replacement method such as pipe bursting may be considered.
Can a Sewer Camera Inspection Find Every Problem?
No inspection method can identify every possible plumbing problem.
A camera shows the interior condition of the portion of pipe that the camera can physically access. Its effectiveness depends on pipe size, configuration, accessibility, blockage severity, internal buildup, and the condition of the pipe.
For example, a camera may be unable to travel beyond:
- – A completely collapsed pipe
- – A severe blockage
- – Heavy internal corrosion or scale
- – A severely offset joint
- – Certain building traps
- – A pipe that is too small or otherwise unsuitable for the camera
In these situations, cleaning or repair may first be necessary before the camera can continue farther into the system.
Can We Inspect Weeping Tiles With a Sewer Camera?
Generally, no.
Traditional weeping tile systems found around many older Toronto homes are not constructed like conventional continuous drain pipes. Older systems may consist of short clay sections with open or separated joints, making it impossible for a conventional sewer camera to travel through the entire system.
Newer perforated drainage systems may also present limitations depending on their construction and configuration.
A sewer camera is primarily designed to travel through continuous drain and sewer piping.
Can a Sewer Camera Inspect the Sewer Beyond the Property Line?
In many situations, yes.
If the camera can travel far enough through the private sewer connection, it may reach beyond the property line and provide information about a portion of the sewer connection leading toward the municipal sewer.
The actual inspection distance depends on access, pipe size, pipe condition, bends, blockages, and other site-specific factors.
An inspection that reaches beyond the property line can provide useful information when determining where a defect is located and whether further investigation or communication with the municipality may be appropriate.
Can a Sewer Camera Be Inserted Upstream?
Sometimes.
Upstream inspection depends on the configuration and accessibility of the drainage system.
For example, horizontal underground drains equipped with suitable cleanouts may allow a camera to travel in both directions. Without appropriate access, however, an upstream inspection may not be possible.
The plumber will determine the available inspection options based on the existing plumbing configuration.
Why Choose Mister Plumber for Sewer Camera Inspection?
Mister Plumber provides professional drain and sewer services throughout Toronto and the GTA.
Our approach is focused on identifying the actual cause of a drainage problem rather than automatically recommending excavation or pipe replacement.
Licensed and experienced plumbers
Our licensed plumbers have extensive experience diagnosing residential drainage and sewer problems.
Professional CCTV inspection equipment
We use professional sewer camera equipment designed to inspect drainage and sewer piping in difficult underground conditions.
Accurate diagnosis
Camera inspection can provide visual evidence of the condition inside the pipe, helping homeowners understand what is causing recurring drainage problems.
Pipe locating
When conditions allow, we can locate the camera underground to help determine the approximate position and depth of a defect.
Complete drain and sewer services
If the inspection identifies a problem, our team can also provide drain cleaning, sewer repair, sewer replacement, and other related plumbing services.
Honest recommendations
We explain what we find and discuss practical repair options. A camera inspection does not automatically mean that the sewer needs to be replaced.
Sewer Camera Inspection in Toronto and the GTA
Mister Plumber provides drain and sewer camera inspection services in Toronto and surrounding GTA communities, including:
- – Toronto
- – Etobicoke
- – Scarborough
- – North York
- – Old Toronto
- – Mississauga
- – Brampton
- – Oakville
- – Milton
- – Vaughan
- – Markham
- – Thornhill
- – And surrounding GTA areas
Whether you have a recurring basement drain backup, an older clay sewer, unexplained blockages, or simply want to understand the condition of an underground sewer before purchasing a home or starting a renovation, a CCTV inspection can provide valuable information.
Call Mister Plumber at 416-939-1530 or contact us online to schedule a sewer and drain camera inspection.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Sewer Camera Inspection
Can a sewer camera inspect an old clay sewer pipe?
Yes. Sewer cameras can generally travel through continuous clay sewer pipes when the pipe is accessible and has sufficient internal clearance.
However, older clay pipes can develop root intrusion, cracks, separated joints, offsets, and collapses. Severe damage may prevent the camera from traveling farther down the line.
Should I have my sewer line inspected if I have never had a problem?
For some older homes, a proactive inspection can be worthwhile, particularly before purchasing a property, completing a major renovation, or making a significant investment in the plumbing system.
It can also be useful when a property has mature trees near the sewer line or older clay or cast iron drainage piping.
Does a sewer camera inspection require digging?
Usually, no.
The camera is normally inserted through an existing accessible opening such as a drain cleanout. If suitable access is unavailable, another access method may be required.
The goal of CCTV inspection is to examine the pipe without excavating the ground.
Can a sewer camera find tree roots?
Yes. Root intrusion is one of the common problems visible during sewer camera inspections.
Roots can enter through joints, cracks, or other damaged areas of underground sewer pipes. A camera can show where roots have entered and how extensively they are affecting the pipe.
Can a sewer camera find a collapsed sewer pipe?
Yes, if the camera can reach the affected area.
A collapsed or severely damaged section may appear as a major restriction or complete obstruction on the camera. However, if the camera cannot pass the collapsed section, the inspection cannot show the condition of the pipe beyond it.
Can a camera inspection determine how deep the sewer pipe is?
A camera equipped with a locating transmitter can often be located from the surface, allowing the technician to estimate the pipe’s horizontal position and depth.
The accuracy of locating depends on the equipment, pipe configuration, soil conditions, depth, and other factors.
Can a sewer camera inspect cast iron pipes?
Yes, provided the camera can travel through the pipe.
Older cast iron drains can develop corrosion, internal scale, cracks, and other deterioration. Heavy internal buildup can sometimes prevent the camera from passing through the pipe.
Can I get a recording of my sewer camera inspection?
Recording availability depends on the inspection equipment and service provided. When recording is available, footage can be retained for your records and may be useful when discussing repair recommendations.
How far can a sewer camera travel?
There is no single maximum distance that applies to every inspection.
The achievable distance depends on the camera system, pipe size, access point, bends, pipe condition, and obstructions. A camera may travel a significant distance through a relatively straight sewer but may stop much sooner if it encounters a severe blockage or collapsed section.
Can a sewer camera inspection tell me whether I need sewer replacement?
It can provide important information for making that decision, but replacement is not automatically required whenever a defect is found.
The appropriate solution depends on the type, location, severity, and extent of the damage, as well as the overall condition of the sewer line. In some cases, cleaning or localized repair may be sufficient. In others, replacement may provide a more reliable long-term solution.
Should I get a sewer camera inspection before buying a house in Toronto?
It can be a valuable addition to a standard home inspection, particularly for older Toronto properties.
A sewer camera inspection focuses specifically on the drainage and sewer piping and may identify problems that are not visible during a conventional home inspection.
Do I need a sewer camera inspection before installing a backwater valve?
It can be very useful when the location and condition of the main drain are uncertain.
Camera inspection can help identify the route and condition of the drain and, when combined with pipe locating, can help the plumber plan the installation more accurately.
Should the same company perform the camera inspection and sewer repair?
Using the same experienced plumbing contractor for diagnosis and repair can be advantageous because the contractor already has information about the pipe condition, location, and defect identified during the inspection.
However, homeowners are free to obtain additional opinions or estimates before authorizing repair work.
Are sewer camera inspections only for emergencies?
No.
A sewer camera inspection can be performed as part of troubleshooting an active drainage problem or as a proactive inspection before a home purchase, renovation, backwater valve installation, or sewer repair.
It can also be useful when an older sewer line has a history of recurring blockages.
