9June 2025
If you’ve been dealing with slow drains, gurgling toilets, or unexpected backups, the problem may go deeper than a surface-level clog. These issues often point to trouble in your main sewer line — and guessing what’s going on underground can be both frustrating and expensive.
That’s where a professional sewer camera inspection comes in. At Southside Plumbing, we use advanced camera technology to take the guesswork out of drain and sewer problems for homeowners across the Omaha metro, including Ralston, Fairacres, La Vista, and Council Bluffs.
What Is a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A sewer camera inspection uses a waterproof, high-resolution camera attached to a flexible rod. This tool is inserted into your home’s drain or cleanout and guided through your sewer line in real time. As it moves through the pipe, the camera sends back a live video feed so our licensed plumbers can identify hidden issues without any digging or disruption to your yard.
It’s fast, non-invasive, and incredibly informative.
Common Problems We Look For
Whether you’ve had recurring plumbing problems or just want peace of mind, here’s what Southside Plumbing checks for during a sewer camera inspection:
1. Root Intrusion
Tree roots are a top cause of sewer damage in the Omaha area. They sneak into small cracks and joints in old clay or cast iron pipes, then expand over time. Our camera can spot root masses before they cause a complete blockage.
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2. Cracked or Collapsed Pipes
Ground movement, shifting soil, or aging infrastructure can cause your sewer line to crack or cave in. Camera inspections help us spot damaged pipe walls and identify whether a spot repair or full replacement is needed.
3. Grease, Sludge & Debris Buildup
Everyday use can lead to grease, paper products, soap scum, and other debris collecting inside your pipes. These blockages reduce flow and can be hard to clear without seeing exactly where the problem is.
4. Corrosion & Deterioration
Older pipes — especially cast iron — can corrode from the inside out. We check for flaking, rust, and thinning pipe walls that may soon lead to leaks or failure.
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5. Standing Water or Pooling
When water sits in the pipe instead of flowing freely, it may signal a sag (or “belly”) in the line. This pooling can lead to backups and should be corrected to prevent future issues.
6. Improper Slope
Gravity is key in moving waste away from your home. We check if the pipe is pitched correctly — even a small slope issue can cause big problems over time.
When Should You Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection?
A camera inspection isn’t just for emergencies — it’s a smart move in several situations:
- Before Buying a Home: Don’t inherit costly sewer problems. Always check the line before closing.
- During Remodels: Planning a major renovation? Make sure your plumbing system can handle the load.
- After Repeated Clogs: If snaking hasn’t solved the issue, there may be a deeper problem.
- For Preventative Maintenance: Even if things seem fine, catching issues early can save thousands later.
What to Expect from Southside Plumbing’s Inspection
When you book a sewer camera inspection with Southside Plumbing, here’s how we make it easy:
- Upfront pricing with no hidden fees.
- On-time arrival by licensed, friendly plumbers.
- Live video footage you can see for yourself.
- Clear, honest explanations of any issues found.
- No upsells — we’ll only recommend repairs if truly necessary.
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Our goal is simple: help you make informed decisions without pressure.
Why It’s Worth It?
Think of a sewer camera inspection like a checkup for your plumbing system. Just like an annual physical helps you avoid serious health issues, this service gives you a clear picture of what’s going on underground — before it becomes an emergency.
Plus, if everything looks good, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your system is in great shape.
Serving Omaha and Beyond
Southside Plumbing is proud to serve homeowners throughout the Omaha metro area, including Ralston, Fairacres, La Vista, Council Bluffs, and nearby communities. Whether you’re buying a home, remodeling, or just tired of the guesswork, we’re here to help.
Schedule a sewer camera inspection today and get answers you can trust—no digging required.
Contact Us to schedule a service call.