A Drainage Minute: The Importance of Sewer Inspections for Homeowners

sewer camera video inspection

Whether you’re buying or selling a home or have lived in one for years, a sewer inspection is a crucial yet often overlooked step in home maintenance. Issues like cracks, scale buildup, offsets, collapses, drops, bellies, or root growth can create the perfect storm for sewage backups. The last thing any homeowner wants is wastewater flooding into their home—making a proactive sewer inspection a smart investment.

At Reid & Pederson Drainage, we specialize in thorough sewer inspections in Crete, IL, the South suburbs, Northwest Indiana and beyond that help homeowners avoid costly surprises. Our expert technicians use advanced sewer camera technology to identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring your home’s drainage system stays in top shape.

Read on to learn more about why sewer inspections matter!

How a Sewer Inspection Works

A sewer camera inspection allows professionals to assess the condition of underground pipes without invasive digging. Here’s what to expect:

  1. Access Point Identification – The technician finds an entry point to insert a specialized sewer camera.
  2. Live Video Assessment – The camera records and displays real-time footage of the interior of the sewer pipe.
  3. On-the-Spot Findings – The technician can share initial observations at the time of inspection.
  4. Detailed Review & Report – A video copy of the inspection is provided, along with recommendations for any necessary repairs.
  5. Action Plan – If structural issues are found, options such as sewer repair, sewer lining, precision cleaning, or rodding will be discussed.

A Real-Life Example: Why Inspections Matter

Recently, a new homeowner in Chicago Heights, Illinois, learned the hard way why a sewer inspection is essential. Just one week after moving in, they woke up to sewage backing up into their bathtub and toilets refusing to flush.

Luckily, Reid & Pederson Drainage had a service history for the property. A technician arrived the same day and performed a sewer rodding, cutting through the invasive roots blocking the sewage from reaching the city sewer. Using a 4-inch cutter, the blockage was successfully removed, restoring proper drainage.

Had a sewer inspection been conducted before closing on the home, the buyer could have requested the necessary rodding in advance—preventing the messy and stressful backup altogether.

The Bottom Line

A sewer inspection provides peace of mind and can save homeowners from unexpected and costly repairs. Whether you’re purchasing a home or maintaining your current one, investing in a professional sewer inspection can prevent future headaches and protect your property.

Don’t wait for a backup to happen—schedule a sewer inspection with Reid & Pederson Drainage today!

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