

A sewer camera scan gives you a clear, real‑time look inside your home’s underground drain line so you can catch hidden problems before they turn into expensive repairs. Many issues—like tree‑root intrusion, pipe corrosion, blockages, bellies, or cracked sections—develop long before there are visible symptoms inside the home. A scan helps you understand the true condition of the line, especially in older properties or homes with clay or cast‑iron piping.
For buyers, it’s one of the most important add‑on inspections because sewer repairs can cost thousands and aren’t visible during a standard home inspection. For current homeowners, a scan can explain slow drains, gurgling fixtures, sewer odours, or recurring backups. The process is quick, non‑invasive, and provides video documentation you can use for repairs, insurance claims, or negotiations.

A sewer camera scan is most valuable when you’re facing situations where hidden drain line issues could lead to costly repairs or unexpected disruptions. Home buyers should always schedule a scan before removing conditions, especially for older homes or properties with clay or cast‑iron sewer lines. Even newer homes can benefit from a scan if there have been landscaping changes, heavy equipment on the property, or signs of improper grading.
Current homeowners should consider a scan when they notice slow drains, gurgling fixtures, sewer odours, or backups that keep returning despite cleaning. Seasonal factors matter too—heavy rain, freeze‑thaw cycles, and root growth can all worsen existing problems. A scan is also smart before major renovations, basement developments, or installing new plumbing fixtures, ensuring the line can handle increased demand.

Calgary’s mix of older neighbourhoods, clay soils, and shifting freeze–thaw cycles creates a unique set of sewer line problems that often go unnoticed until a camera scan reveals them. One of the most common issues is tree‑root intrusion, especially in areas with mature trees and original clay or cast‑iron piping. Roots naturally seek moisture and can enter even the smallest cracks, eventually blocking or collapsing sections of the line.
Another frequent problem is pipe corrosion or deterioration, particularly in older homes where cast iron has begun to scale, flake, or narrow internally. Clay pipes often develop offset joints or cracks as the ground shifts, leading to leaks, soil infiltration, and recurring blockages. Calgary’s freeze–thaw cycles can also create pipe bellies—low spots where water and debris collect—causing slow drains and backups over time.
Homeowners also encounter grease buildup, foreign objects, and construction debris left behind from past renovations or landscaping. In newer communities, improper grading or soil settlement can stress the line, while in older areas, decades of ground movement can cause partial collapses. A sewer camera scan is the only reliable way to see these issues early and plan repairs before they become costly emergencies.
Homeowners often have practical questions about what a sewer camera scan includes, when it’s needed, and what happens if an issue is found. These FAQs give you clear, straightforward answers so you can make informed decisions about your sewer line’s condition and next steps.
A sewer camera scan uses a specialized waterproof camera to inspect the main sewer line for blockages, cracks, tree root intrusion, or pipe deterioration. It’s recommended during real estate transactions, renovations, or when you’re experiencing slow drains, backups, or unexplained plumbing issues.
No, it is a specialized service. And, it can be added as a package.
The scan can reveal tree root intrusion, pipe sagging (belly), cracks, collapsed sections, grease buildup, and improper connections. These issues can lead to costly repairs if left undetected.
You don’t have to be home for the scan to be completed, but many homeowners choose to be present so they can watch the real‑time camera footage and see any findings as they’re discovered. If you prefer not to attend, you’ll still receive the full video and a clear summary of the results.
You’ll receive a video recording and a written summary of the issue. This documentation can be shared with a plumber or contractor for repair estimates. In real estate deals, it can also support negotiations or warranty claims.
No. A sewer camera scan is not a septic tank inspection. Our scan evaluates the main sewer line using a specialized camera to check for blockages, cracks, root intrusion, or pipe deterioration. Septic systems require a separate septic inspection, which involves assessing the tank, pump chamber, field, and overall system performance.
If you’re buying an acreage or rural property and need septic evaluation, please contact our client care team at (403) 257-4820 for advice.
Yes. Sewer Camera Scan can discover many problems. Even on a new home, a sewer repair might be needed and can cost money for clearing debris, spot repairs or line replacement. Our experience shows that even new homes indicate blockages due to:
Construction‑Related Issues
Dirt, rocks, gravel, or backfill material left inside the pipe
Pieces of wood, plastic, insulation, or garbage from trades
Cement or grout accidentally poured into the line
Tools or construction materials dropped into the pipe
Excess glue or sealant blocking part of the pipe
Installation Errors
Incorrect slope (too flat or too steep)
Misaligned joints
Poorly glued or improperly connected fittings
Sections of pipe not fully seated together
Wrong pipe type or diameter used
Damage During Backfilling
Crushed or cracked pipes
Pipes shifted out of alignment
Bellies or low spots where water and waste collect
High spots that cause slow drainage
Lot Grading & Settlement Issues
Soil settling after construction causing pipe sagging
Heavy equipment driving over the line and damaging it
Improper compaction leading to future pipe movement
Exterior & Builder‑Related Problems
Sewer line not properly connected to the city main
Temporary construction caps left inside the pipe
Landscaping or concrete work damaging shallow sections
Tree roots already starting to grow toward warm, moist soil

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