Underground Pipeline Health Check: Common Problems a Sewer Inspection Can Detect

Underground pipelines are out of sight—but when problems occur, the consequences can be expensive, disruptive, and time-consuming. A professional underground pipeline health check using a sewer inspection camera is one of the most effective ways to identify hidden issues before they turn into major repairs.

At Octopusscan, we design advanced sewer inspection cameras to help plumbers, contractors, and property owners accurately diagnose underground pipeline problems. This SEO-focused guide explains the most common issues a sewer inspection can uncover and why regular pipeline inspections are essential.

What Is an Underground Pipeline Health Check?

An underground pipeline health check is a visual inspection of sewer and drain lines using a high-resolution sewer camera. The camera is inserted into the pipe and transmits real-time video, allowing inspectors to evaluate the internal condition of the pipeline without excavation.

This method is widely used for:

• Residential sewer inspections

• Commercial drain maintenance

• Property pre-purchase inspections

• Preventive maintenance programs

Why Sewer Camera Inspections Matter

Many underground pipe problems develop slowly and remain invisible until a serious failure occurs. Sewer inspections help:

• Detect problems early

• Reduce unnecessary digging

• Lower repair costs

• Improve maintenance planning

• Extend the lifespan of pipelines

Common Underground Pipeline Problems a Sewer Inspection Can Detect

1. Pipe Blockages and Clogs

Grease buildup, debris, sediment, and foreign objects are among the most common causes of blocked sewer lines.

What a sewer camera reveals:

• Exact blockage location

• Severity of buildup

• Type of obstruction

Early detection allows targeted cleaning instead of repeated guesswork.

2. Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can infiltrate pipelines through small cracks or joints.

Inspection benefits:

• Identifies root entry points

• Determines root density

• Helps plan root cutting or pipe repair

Root intrusion is a leading cause of recurring sewer backups.

3. Cracked, Broken, or Collapsed Pipes

Aging infrastructure, ground movement, and heavy surface loads can cause pipe damage.

What inspectors can see:

• Hairline cracks

• Fractures and offsets

• Partial or full pipe collapse

Early identification prevents catastrophic failures and emergency repairs.

4. Pipe Corrosion and Material Degradation

Metal pipes can corrode, while clay or concrete pipes may deteriorate over time.

Camera inspection reveals:

• Rust buildup

• Surface erosion

• Thinning pipe walls

This information is critical for long-term replacement planning.

5. Misaligned or Offset Pipe Joints

Improper installation or soil movement can cause joints to shift, restricting flow.

Why inspection matters:

• Locates misaligned joints precisely

• Identifies flow restrictions

• Helps prevent future blockages

6. Bellies and Sagging Pipes

A pipe belly occurs when a section of pipe sinks, creating standing water.

Inspection advantages:

• Confirms pipe slope issues

• Identifies low points

• Prevents recurring drainage problems

Standing water often leads to repeated clogs and accelerated pipe damage.

7. Leaks and Infiltration

Groundwater infiltration or sewage leaks can compromise system performance.

Sewer camera detection helps:

• Identify leak locations

• Detect joint failures

• Reduce water damage risks

8. Construction Debris and Foreign Objects

Leftover construction materials or accidental objects can obstruct pipelines.

Inspection benefits:

• Pinpoints foreign objects

• Enables targeted removal

• Avoids unnecessary pipe replacement

Who Needs Underground Pipeline Inspections?

Sewer camera inspections are valuable for:

• Homeowners experiencing frequent backups

• Plumbers diagnosing recurring drain issues

• Commercial property managers

• Real estate buyers and inspectors

• Municipal maintenance teams

Why Choose Octopusscan for Sewer Inspections?

Octopusscan sewer inspection cameras are engineered for professional underground pipeline diagnostics, featuring:

• High-resolution camera heads

• Durable push rods for long-distance inspections

• Built-in 512Hz transmitters for accurate locating

• Compatibility with standard pipe locators

• Reliable performance in harsh environments

Our equipment helps professionals locate problems faster, reduce guesswork, and deliver clear inspection reports.

🚀 Call to Action

Don’t wait for underground pipeline problems to become emergencies.

👉 Explore Octopusscan Sewer Inspection Cameras
👉 Upgrade Your Underground Pipeline Health Checks
👉 Contact Our Team for Professional Inspection Solutions

Visit Octopusscan.com to discover reliable tools for accurate sewer inspections and underground pipeline diagnostics.