Failed Sewer Inspection? Here’s How a Plumbing Borescope Can Help

A failed sewer inspection indicates that the property’s sewer line has significant issues that prevent it from functioning properly. While that might sound alarming, it doesn’t mean the property is unsalvageable, it simply means repairs or maintenance are needed.

Common reasons for failed inspections include:

• Tree root intrusion damaging or blocking the line
• Pipe corrosion or deterioration, especially in older systems
• Blockages from grease, debris, or foreign objects
• Misaligned or collapsed pipes due to soil shifting or age
• Low-quality or temporary repairs that have failed over time 

The key to handling these issues efficiently lies in accurate visual inspection, and that’s where a borescope comes in.

After receiving a failed inspection report, property owners or inspectors often need more clarity about the problem’s severity and location. A plumbing borescope provides:

• Real-time visuals of the pipe’s interior
• Precise localization of cracks, blockages, or collapses
• Recorded footage to include in reports or insurance claims
• Non-invasive diagnostics, reducing the need for digging 

Using a borescope ensures you can verify inspection findings, confirm the extent of damage, and guide clients toward the most effective repair solution.

If you do face a failed sewage inspection, you can pinpoint the issue, make informed decisions, and prevent future problems. Follow these steps below:

1. Review the Inspection Footage: If possible, review the original inspection video to understand where and why the system failed. If no footage is available, perform your own inspection using a plumbing borescope. Seeing the issue firsthand removes uncertainty and ensures you have accurate information before deciding on repairs.
2. Get Multiple Opinions: Use the footage to gather quotes from different specialists. Sewer damage can often be repaired in more than one way, and comparing recommendations helps you choose the most practical and cost-effective option.
3. Document Everything: Keep clear records of inspection footage and reports. This documentation builds trust with clients, supports insurance claims, and provides proof of completed work.
4. Plan Preventive Maintenance: After repairs, schedule periodic borescope inspections to monitor the line. Regular checks help confirm that repairs hold up and reduce the risk of another failed sewer inspection.

By taking a proactive, well-documented approach, you’ll not only resolve the immediate issue but also protect your property’s value and avoid another failed inspection down the line.

How to Prevent Future Sewer Line Failures

The best way to avoid another failed sewer inspection is through proactive monitoring and maintenance. Encourage clients to:

• Schedule routine sewer inspections every few years
• Avoid flushing non-biodegradable materials
• Install root barriers if trees are near sewer lines
• Use professional borescopes for annual visual checks

Regular use of inspection cameras allows property professionals to detect minor issues before they escalate into major repairs.

A failed sewer inspection can be stressful, but it does not have to derail a transaction or lead to unnecessary repairs. With the right equipment and a clear visual assessment, professionals can identify the problem accurately and guide their clients toward the best solution.

Using a plumbing borescope transforms the inspection process from guesswork into precision. It helps confirm the cause of failure, ensures repairs are justified, and provides peace of mind for everyone involved.

At USA Borescopes, we offer a wide range of sewer inspection cameras and plumbing borescopes designed for accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Our tools give inspectors and property professionals the confidence to assess sewer conditions, diagnose failures, and provide clear evidence during a failed sewer inspection.

Explore sewer inspection cameras at USA Borescopes to find the perfect fit for your needs, or learn more about how to choose the right sewer camera for your next inspection.