Plumbing service
Professional Sewer Line Inspections (Camera Inspection) Services
What is sewer camera inspections and when do you need it?
A sewer camera inspection sends a waterproof video camera down your sewer lateral so you can see the actual condition of the pipe instead of guessing from symptoms. Avanté Plumbing runs camera inspections across Sonoma and Marin County under California CSLB licence #841938. It is the right first step in four situations: a drain that keeps blocking no matter how often it is cleared, before buying a property with mature trees or original clay pipe, before committing to any sewer repair or replacement, and where a city requires one. Mill Valley, for example, requires a video lateral inspection at point of sale. The camera shows roots, cracks, offset joints, bellies holding standing water, and collapsed sections, and it locates them along the run — which is what turns an open-ended excavation into a targeted repair. You see the footage, not just our summary of it.
What does sewer camera inspections cost in Sonoma County?
$225 – $325
$225 covers a camera inspection through an existing clean-out. Up to $325 with there is no clean-out fitting to run the camera through.
Diagnostic fee is $45, and it comes off the cost of the job if you go ahead. Our standard labor rate is $175 an hour.
Prices current as of September 2026. Every job is quoted before work starts.
What is a sewer line camera inspection?
A sewer line camera inspection involves using a specialized waterproof camera on a flexible rod. We insert it into your sewer line to detect clogs, cracks, or other issues.
Why do I need a sewer line inspection?
Having a sewer line inspection helps spot problems early before they become major issues. It's crucial for preventing costly repairs and maintaining your plumbing in top condition.
How often should a sewer line be inspected?
It's a good idea to have your sewer lines inspected every 1-2 years, especially if your home is older or you've noticed issues like frequent clogs.
Last updated: August 2026 · Written by Karl D'Angelo, CSLB #841938 (C-36 Plumbing), plumbing in Sonoma & Marin since 2004.
At Avante Plumbing, we specialize in sewer line inspections using advanced camera technology to ensure your plumbing system functions smoothly. A blocked or damaged sewer line can lead to serious issues, including backups and costly repairs. Our camera inspections help prevent these problems by allowing us to see the interior of your sewer lines in detail.
Our camera inspection involves using a high-resolution camera attached to a flexible rod. This device travels through your sewer lines, providing a live video feed. We can spot blockages, cracks, corrosion, or other issues without needing invasive digging or guesswork.
Precision: Identifies the exact location and nature of the problem, reducing the time and cost of repairs.
Non-Invasive: As we view inside the pipes, there’s no need for extensive digging or property damage.
Preventative Maintenance: Catch small problems early before they escalate into emergencies.
Documentation: We provide detailed reports and video footage, aiding insurance claims or home inspections.
After scheduling your appointment, our trained technicians arrive promptly at your location in Santa Rosa.
We introduce ourselves, explain the process clearly, and answer any questions you may have.
The inspection is performed politely and efficiently, causing minimal disruption to your day.
Common questions
Sewer Camera Inspections FAQs
What signs indicate I need a sewer inspection?
Frequent backups, slow drains, and unusual smells can indicate a problem. It's wise to schedule an inspection to identify the issue.
What can I expect during an inspection visit?
Our professional plumber will arrive on time, conduct the camera inspection efficiently, and provide you with a detailed report of the findings.
How much does a camera inspection cost?
Prices vary depending on several factors, but we strive to offer reasonably priced, quality service. Call us at (707) 231-0790 for a quote.
When does a sewer camera inspection become mandatory?
In several Marin districts, at sale. Ross Valley Sanitary District triggers on sale, a remodel over $75,000, or a remodel adding a bathroom. Sanitary District No. 2 (Corte Madera, Belvedere) triggers on title transfer plus six other events. Sanitary District No. 5 (Tiburon) triggers on purchase or sale and $50,000 of work cumulatively over three years. Sausalito–Marin City additionally requires inspection if the lateral has not been inspected in ten years.
What can a sewer camera actually see?
The condition and shape of the pipe from the inside: root intrusion at joints, cracks and fractures, offset or separated joints, a belly holding standing water, scale and grease build-up, and the material the line is made of. It also locates the fault along the run, which is what decides whether a spot repair, a trenchless liner or a full replacement is the right answer.
Is a camera inspection worth it before buying a house?
On an older property, generally yes, because the lateral is the one major system a standard home inspection does not enter. A failed lateral is an owner expense, not the district's, and in several Marin districts the sale itself triggers a compliance requirement — so the inspection is often needed anyway. Knowing before closing is the difference between negotiating and discovering.
Trusted locally
What customers say
“I hired Karl to fix my irrigation leak problem. He was very thorough and conscientious. He shows up on time and was able to assess and fix the problem. I would recommend him.”
“Karl D'Angelo from Avante Plumbing did an excellent job on my bathroom. He installed a new vanity and toilet, replaced the shower valve, and completed everything with great attention to detail. He was professional, knowledgeable, punctual, and kept the work area clean throughout the project. The quality of his work was outstanding, and everything works perfectly. I highly recommend Karl and Avante Plumbing to anyone looking for an honest, skilled, and reliable plumber. Thank you for a job well done!”
“We had a pipe leak in the side of my girlfriend's house, and Karl made it there very quickly to help repair it! Very easy experience, extremely nice guy, and fair pricing. I'll definitely be recommending him to my friends from now on!”
Rated 4.9 stars across 32 Google reviews — read all 32 reviews or see photographs of 21 completed jobs.
Sewer Camera Inspections near you
Sonoma & Marin County
Need sewer camera inspections?
Call (707) 231-0790 or send a note — we'll get back to you fast with a straight answer.
Licensed, bonded & insured · CSLB #841938 · Mon – Sun, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM