Top Sewer Camera Inspection Companies in Buffalo, New York Ranked

A sewer camera inspection is a vital diagnostic tool that provides a clear, real-time view inside your home's main sewer line. This non-invasive video pipe inspection is crucial for identifying hidden problems like root intrusion, cracks, or blockages before they lead to costly backups or property damage. For Buffalo homeowners, buyers, and sellers, using this service helps make informed decisions about property maintenance and transactions by connecting you with local professionals who can perform a thorough assessment.

Hazlett Plumbing

3689 California Rd Unit 19, Orchard Park, NY 14127

Hazlett Plumbing is a plumbing contractor serving Buffalo, NY, and the Greater Western New York area. Established in 2016, the company offers a range of plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, repiping, and toilet repair. They specialize in sewer and drain cleaning with permanent solutions targeting root causes. Hazlett Plumbing also handles commercial and residential new builds, remodels, and retrofits. The company emphasizes honesty, integrity, and community care in its operations.

5.0

355 Reviews

Moser's Plumbing & Heating Inc.

buffalo

Moser's Plumbing & Heating Inc. is a full-service plumbing company based in Buffalo, NY. Since 2016, they have provided a range of plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, tankless water heater installations, sump pump repairs, and drain cleaning. The company also offers video inspections and handles both new plumbing system installations and repairs for residential and commercial properties. As licensed master plumbers, they bring expertise in underground plumbing work and heating and cooling system maintenance.

5.0

121 Reviews

Roy's Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical

140 Cooper Ave, Tonawanda, NY 14150

Roy's Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical provides plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical services in Buffalo, NY. They offer sewer camera inspections, drain cleaning, and leak detection among their plumbing capabilities. The company is known for thorough inspections and clear communication with customers. Their team handles a range of residential service needs with attention to detail and professionalism.

4.8

3.0k Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

392 Franklin St Ste 3, Buffalo, NY 14204

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides comprehensive plumbing services in Buffalo, NY, including sewer camera inspections, water heater repairs and installations, drain cleaning, and water softener installation. They offer 24/7 emergency plumbing service to address urgent issues such as frozen pipes, sewage odors, and water heater malfunctions. Their sewer line services include video camera inspections, trenchless sewer repair, and conventional excavation methods to minimize disruption. The company also installs various water filtration and softening systems to improve water quality in the Buffalo area. Roto-Rooter serves Buffalo and nearby communities, bringing local expertise to their work.

4.8

2.5k Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

2959 Genesee St Ste C, Cheektowaga, NY 14225

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides comprehensive plumbing services in Buffalo, NY. They offer 24/7 emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer line repair including trenchless methods, water heater repair and installation, leak detection, and commercial plumbing solutions. Their team uses advanced diagnostics and equipment to handle residential and commercial plumbing needs, including water damage cleanup and hydro jetting. Serving Buffalo and surrounding communities, Roto-Rooter is equipped to address urgent plumbing issues any time of day or year.

4.8

1.5k Reviews

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What is a Sewer Scope Inspection?

A sewer scope, or video pipe inspection, involves feeding a high-resolution, waterproof camera mounted on a flexible rod into your main sewer lateral-the pipe that carries all your home's wastewater to the city's main sewer line under the street. The camera transmits a live video feed to a monitor, allowing a technician to visually inspect the pipe's interior condition from the cleanout access point all the way to the city connection ^{1 2}. This process is the most accurate way to diagnose issues without any digging or guesswork.

Top Reasons for a Sewer Video Inspection in Buffalo

Homeowners in Buffalo typically schedule a sewer line camera inspection for several key reasons:

• Before Buying or Selling a Home: This is one of the most common reasons. A pre-purchase sewer inspection can reveal hidden defects in the private lateral, which is the homeowner's responsibility. Discovering a major issue like a collapsed clay pipe before closing can save a buyer tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected repair costs ^{1 2 3}.
• Recurring Drain Problems: If you're experiencing frequent clogs, slow drains throughout the house, or gurgling toilets, the cause is often deep within the sewer line. A camera inspection can pinpoint the exact location and nature of the blockage, whether it's roots, grease buildup, or a damaged pipe ^{4 5}.
• Suspected Pipe Damage: Signs like sewage odors in the yard or basement, unexplained soggy patches in the lawn, or sudden sinkholes can indicate a broken sewer pipe. A video inspection confirms the damage and its extent ³.
• Preventative Maintenance: For homes over 20 years old or properties with large, mature trees nearby, a preventative sewer scope is a smart investment. Tree roots are naturally drawn to the moisture and nutrients in sewer pipes and are a leading cause of intrusion and damage in the Buffalo area ^{2 5}.
• Verifying Work After Repairs: If you've recently had sewer line repairs or cleaning done, a follow-up camera inspection verifies that the work was completed successfully and the line is clear.

What a Sewer Camera Reveals

The live video feed from a sewer inspection camera provides an unmistakable diagnosis. Here's what technicians look for and commonly find in Buffalo's older infrastructure:

• Root Intrusion: Thin, hair-like roots or thick, trunk-like roots growing into pipe joints or cracks. This is a pervasive issue in neighborhoods with mature trees ^{1 6}.
• Cracks, Breaks, and Holes: Damage to the pipe wall, which can be caused by shifting soil, freezing ground, age, or root pressure. This damage allows sewage to leak out and groundwater to seep in.
• Bellies or Sags: A low spot in the pipe where water and waste collect due to improper installation or soil erosion. These sags lead to chronic slow drains and blockages ⁶.
• Blockages and Debris: Buildups of grease, scale, toilet paper, or foreign objects that restrict or completely stop flow.
• Misaligned or Separated Joints: Sections of pipe that have shifted and pulled apart, creating a major leak point. This is common in older clay tile pipes ⁶.
• Pipe Material and Corrosion: The inspection identifies the type of pipe (e.g., old Orangeburg, clay, cast iron, modern PVC) and its overall state, including internal corrosion or deterioration ⁶.

Understanding Your Inspection Report

A professional sewer camera inspection provides more than just a quick look. You should receive a comprehensive package that includes:

1. The Full Video Recording: A digital copy of the entire inspection, often provided on a USB drive or via a secure online link. This allows you to see the condition of the line for yourself ^{1 7}.
2. A Detailed Written Report: This report logs all findings, noting the type of defect, its severity, and its precise location (measured in feet from the access point) ^{4 7}.
3. A Line Map: Some reports include a simple diagram sketching the path of the sewer line and where defects are located.
4. Recommendations: The inspector will provide clear recommendations for any necessary action, from routine cleaning to spot repairs or full pipe replacement. Reputable providers may also offer repair cost estimates ^{1 7}.

This report becomes an essential document for home sellers, a negotiation tool for buyers, and a maintenance blueprint for homeowners.

Cost of Sewer Camera Inspections in Buffalo

The cost for a standard sewer scope inspection of a private lateral in Buffalo typically ranges from $100 to $500 or more ^{8 9}. The final price depends on several factors:

• Length of the Line: Longer lines require more camera cable and time.
• Accessibility: If the cleanout is buried or difficult to access, additional labor may be needed.
• Provider: Rates vary between plumbing companies and specialized inspection services.
• Scope of Service: A basic inspection versus one that includes a detailed report and consultation.

It's important to get a clear quote upfront. While the inspection itself is an out-of-pocket cost, it is minor compared to the expense of emergency repairs for an undiagnosed problem.

Financial Assistance for Sewer Repairs in Buffalo

A critical piece of information for Buffalo residents is the City of Buffalo's Private Sewer Lateral (PSL) Program. This program offers a rebate to homeowners for a portion of the costs associated with repairing or replacing a defective private sewer lateral ^{8 10}. It's vital to understand that this rebate applies to the repair work, not the diagnostic inspection itself. However, the camera inspection is the required first step to qualify, as it provides the proof of defect needed for the application. This program can significantly offset the financial burden of major sewer line work, making the upfront cost of an inspection a wise investment. Homeowners should contact the Buffalo Water Authority or visit the city's website for the most current eligibility requirements and rebate amounts.

Choosing a Service Provider in Buffalo

When looking for a sewer inspection service in Buffalo, consider providers with:

• Proven Experience: Look for companies with specific expertise in sewer scoping.
• Modern Equipment: They should use high-resolution, locator-equipped cameras that can accurately pinpoint problems.
• Clear Reporting: They must provide a comprehensive video and written report.
• Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Buffalo's common pipe materials, soil conditions, and city programs (like the PSL rebate) is a major advantage.

By taking the proactive step of a sewer camera inspection, you gain peace of mind and protect your property from one of the most disruptive and expensive failures a home can face.

Frequently asked questions

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