When you notice slow drains, gurgling sounds, or an unexplained odor in your home or business, one question quickly comes to mind, What’s really going on inside my pipes? This is where a drain camera inspection comes in. Instead of guesswork and unnecessary digging, modern plumbing technology uses a high-resolution camera to pinpoint problems with accuracy.
But before booking the service, most people ask, “How much does a drain camera inspection cost?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. Prices vary depending on factors like the property type, accessibility, and the plumbing company you hire. In this blog, we’ll break it down in simple terms, covering costs, what’s included, and why this service can actually save you money in the long run.
What Exactly Is a Drain Camera Inspection?
A drain camera inspection is a professional plumbing service where a small waterproof camera is fed into your pipes. The camera transmits a live video feed to the plumber’s monitor, showing every bend, joint, and blockage in real time.
Instead of cutting into walls or digging up your yard, plumbers can now diagnose issues like:
- Tree root intrusions
- Grease buildup
- Cracked or collapsed pipes
- Foreign objects are blocking the flow
- Hidden leaks
This non-invasive technology has become a standard in both residential and commercial plumbing.
Average Cost of Drain Camera Inspections
Here’s a snapshot of what homeowners and businesses usually pay in North America:
Type of Service | Average Price Range |
Standard Residential Drain Camera Inspection | $150 – $400 |
Commercial Drain Camera Service | $300 – $900 |
Sewer Line Camera Inspection | $250 – $600 |
Emergency Drain Camera Inspection | $400 – $1,000 |
Full Property Plumbing Diagnostic with Camera | $500 – $1,200 |
Why Do Prices Vary So Much?
Several factors influence the cost of a camera inspection:
1. Type of Property
Residential homes usually require shorter inspections, often just one or two drains. Commercial properties can be much more complex, with long underground sewer lines or multiple drain systems.
2. Drain Accessibility
If your drains are easy to reach, the inspection will be faster and cheaper. Buried or hard-to-access drains require extra time and labor.
3. Service Type
The best service type is diagnostic check as it is less expensive as compared to the full report with recorded footage
4. Emergency vs. Scheduled
That’s quite an obvious thing that an emergency call will cost you more in fees than a scheduled appointment
Benefits Beyond Cost Savings
A drain camera inspection is not just about price, it’s about long-term value. Here’s why many homeowners now see it as an essential drain service:
Pinpoint Accuracy – No more unnecessary digging.
Preventative Care – Spot small issues before they become major problems.
Documentation – Get a recorded video of your plumbing system.
Peace of Mind – Know exactly what’s happening in your pipes.
Residential vs. Commercial Drain Camera Services
Residential Services | Commercial Service |
Average Price: $150 – $400 | Average Price: $300 – $900 |
Used for slow drains, bad odors, or before buying a home. | Ideal for restaurants, hotels, and office buildings with heavy plumbing use. |
Typically covers one main sewer line and a few secondary drains. | Includes larger sewer systems, grease traps, and compliance reports. |
How Long Does a Drain Camera Inspection Take?
A common question homeowners ask is: “How much time will this take?”
- Standard Home Inspection: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
- Large Commercial Properties: 2 – 4 hours
- Emergency Inspections: Timing varies depending on the complexity of the blockage
The process is quick compared to traditional methods, which could take days.
Final Thoughts
Nobody really wakes up thinking, “Today’s a great day to book a drain camera inspection.” But the truth is, it’s one of those things that can save you from way bigger headaches later on. Imagine spending thousands on digging or guesswork, only to find out the problem was something small that could’ve been spotted with a quick camera check. A proper inspection usually costs just a few hundred dollars, and in return, you get clarity, peace of mind, and zero surprises.
If your drains are running slow, there’s a funky smell you can’t shake, or you’re about to sign papers on a new home, this little step can make all the difference. And when you bring in a crew like Best Choice Plumber, you’re not just paying for the service you’re getting honest pricing, people who actually care about fixing the issue right, and technology that shows you exactly what’s happening inside your pipes. No guesswork, no gimmicks just answers that help you make smart decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions
A typical camera drain survey costs $250 to $600, depending on the property size and complexity.
A standard drain test typically costs between $100 and $300. If combined with a camera inspection, it may be bundled at a discounted rate.
Yes. Sewer cameras save money in the long run by detecting exact issues early, avoiding unnecessary excavation, and preventing repeated plumbing visits.
On average, it takes between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the system's size. Commercial properties may take longer.