Cost GuideUpdated July 13, 2026
Plumbing issues can escalate fast, especially in Hillside where most homes were built decades ago. Sewer line problems are common with our older clay and cast iron pipes. A camera inspection is often the first real step in figuring out what's going on underground, since guessing rarely leads to a reliable fix.
Why Sewer Line Trouble is Common in Hillside
Hillside's housing stock mostly dates back to the mid-20th century. That puts many original sewer lines at 50 years old or more, and a lot of them are made of clay tile or aging cast iron. Our clay and loam soils, paired with freeze-thaw cycles each winter, are tough on buried pipes. Tree roots seek out tiny cracks, and years of buildup from grease or debris can constrict the line. If you've noticed slow drains, gurgling toilets, or backups, the sewer line is often the culprit.
What a Sewer Camera Inspection Actually Shows
During a sewer camera inspection, our crew feeds a flexible, waterproof camera through your main sewer cleanout. This camera sends clear video footage back to a monitor, so we see the pipe's interior in real-time. The key things we look for are:
- Cracks and breaks: Clay pipes often fracture with soil movement or freeze-thaw stress.
- Tree root intrusion: Roots squeeze into tiny gaps, especially at joints or cracks, and can block flow.
- Bellied sections: Sagging in the line collects waste and water, increasing the chance of a clog.
- Blockages: Grease buildup, debris, or foreign objects can partially or totally obstruct the pipe.
- Corrosion: Cast iron lines often rust from the inside out, causing rough spots or holes.
The camera inspection gives us a precise location, depth, and cause for any issues. This makes repairs targeted, avoids unnecessary digging, and saves money compared to trial-and-error.
Common Signs You Need a Sewer Camera Inspection
- Water backs up in lower level drains or basement after using the washing machine or dishwasher
- Slow flushing toilets throughout the house
- Persistent sewer odor inside or near basement floor drains
- Standing water in the yard, especially near sewer line path
- Gurgling noises from multiple drains at once
If any of these keep happening, that's when we advise scheduling an inspection rather than guesswork. Sometimes a regular drain cleaning can solve the problem if it's a minor clog, but for repeat issues, seeing inside the line is the only way to plan the right fix.
Sewer Camera Inspection Steps and What to Expect
The process is straightforward. We locate the main cleanout, usually in the basement or outside the house. Next, we insert the camera and record the full length of the main sewer pipe, noting any defect or blockage. We often mark the surface above any problem spots. This lets us give an exact plan for repair, whether it's a spot fix, a section replacement, or recommending pipe repair or repiping if multiple issues show up.
The whole inspection usually takes under two hours. We provide the video or images if you want to keep them for your records or insurance. Cost varies, depending on line length, accessibility, and follow-up needs. We're happy to talk through the details before any work begins so there are no surprises.
How Camera Inspections Save Money for Hillside Homeowners
Digging up your yard or basement to chase a sewer problem isn't just a headache, it's expensive. The biggest value of a camera inspection is proof. We see exactly what's wrong and where. This means you avoid unnecessary trenching, get a plan for targeted repairs, and can often limit the scope of excavation. For homes near the Des Plaines River or with a higher water table, knowing what's below ground is especially important to prevent recurring backups or foundation issues.
If we spot issues like heavy root growth or pipe sagging, we can recommend next steps right away. Sometimes a combination of sewer line services including hydro jetting or targeted repairs does the trick. In other cases, we might discover a break that requires more extensive replacement, or a section of the line that's beyond patching. Having clear footage speeds up every decision.
What Else to Check During Sewer Problems
Issues with the sewer often overlap with other plumbing risks in older houses. Leaky pipes, worn sump pumps and unreliable shutoff valves are all worth checking if you're already dealing with sewer problems. Our team often helps with leak detection and repair and sump pump services while inspecting a property. This is especially important in areas with a moderate water table, where heavy storms can put extra pressure on both the sewer and sump systems.
Cost Factors and Next Steps
Pricing for a sewer camera inspection typically depends on the length of the line, how easy it is to access the cleanout, and whether it leads to more work like a full cleaning or repair. Our team always gives upfront options and honest advice, no guesswork or hidden fees. If you need more information tailored to your house, just call and we'll discuss what fits your situation.
If you own a home in Hillside and want clear answers about your sewer line, our crew is ready to help. Call us at 708-809-8751 and we'll schedule an inspection or answer your plumbing questions.