Expert Sewer Line Inspection in Edwardsville, IL

The frequency of sewer line inspections depends on various factors, including the age of your property and the condition of your plumbing system. As a general rule, we recommend having your sewer lines inspected every 18-24 months for residential properties and annually for commercial buildings. However, if you live in an older Edwardsville home or have experienced recurring plumbing issues, more frequent inspections may be advisable. Our experts can help you determine the ideal inspection schedule for your specific situation.

Edwardsville homes feature a variety of sewer line materials, depending on when they were built. Older homes may have clay or cast iron pipes, while newer constructions typically use PVC or ABS plastic. Each material has its own lifespan and potential issues. For example, clay pipes are prone to root intrusion, while cast iron can corrode over time. During our inspections, we identify your pipe material and assess its condition, providing tailored recommendations based on the specific challenges associated with each type.

Yes, tree roots are a significant threat to sewer lines, especially in Edwardsville’s lush, tree-lined neighborhoods. Roots are naturally attracted to the moisture and nutrients in sewer pipes and can infiltrate through small cracks or joints, causing blockages and damage. To prevent root intrusion, consider regular sewer line inspections to catch early signs of root penetration. We can recommend root barriers or growth inhibitors for trees near sewer lines. In some cases, selecting appropriate landscaping or relocating trees may be necessary to protect your sewer system.

A sewer line inspection specifically focuses on the main sewer pipe that connects your home to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. It typically involves using specialized camera equipment to visually inspect the interior of these underground pipes. A regular plumbing inspection, on the other hand, may cover a broader range of your home’s plumbing system, including fixtures, visible pipes, and water heaters. While both are important, sewer line inspections are crucial for detecting hidden issues that could lead to significant damage if left unchecked.

The duration of a sewer line inspection can vary depending on factors such as the size of your property, the complexity of your plumbing system, and the number of access points. Generally, a standard residential sewer line inspection in Edwardsville takes between 1-2 hours. This includes the initial setup, the camera inspection process, and a brief overview of the findings. For larger properties or more complex systems, the inspection may take longer. We always strive to be thorough while respecting your time.

If our inspection uncovers issues with your sewer line, we’ll provide you with a detailed report of our findings, including video footage where applicable. We’ll explain the nature of the problem, its severity, and recommend appropriate solutions. Depending on the issue, solutions might range from simple cleaning to more extensive repairs or replacements. Our team will guide you through your options, helping you make an informed decision about how to proceed. We can often perform necessary repairs or maintenance immediately following the inspection, saving you time and preventing further damage.

At Pioneer Plumbing Restoration, we use non-invasive inspection techniques that minimize disruption to your Edwardsville property. Our camera inspections are typically performed through existing access points like clean-outs, requiring no digging or property damage. Our technicians are trained to work neatly and efficiently, respecting your space and leaving the area as clean as they found it. In rare cases where more extensive access is required, we’ll discuss this with you beforehand and take all necessary precautions to protect your property.

While sewer line camera inspections are highly effective at identifying a wide range of issues, they may not detect every possible problem. Our high-resolution cameras can visually identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, pipe collapse, and misalignments. However, some issues like small leaks or problems outside the pipe might not be visible on camera. In cases where we suspect issues that can’t be confirmed visually, we may recommend additional diagnostic methods such as hydrostatic pressure tests or soil analysis. Our goal is to provide you with the most comprehensive assessment possible of your sewer system’s health.

Edwardsville has specific regulations regarding sewer line maintenance and repairs, particularly when it comes to the homeowner’s responsibilities versus those of the city. Generally, property owners are responsible for maintaining the portion of the sewer line that runs from their home to the connection with the public sewer main. Any repairs or replacements in this section typically require permits from the city. Our team at Pioneer Plumbing Restoration is well-versed in local Edwardsville regulations and can guide you through any necessary permit processes or compliance issues related to your sewer line work.

1. While it’s not always possible to prevent all sewer line problems, there are several steps Edwardsville homeowners can take to minimize risks:
   • Schedule regular sewer line inspections to catch issues early
   • Be mindful of what you flush or pour down drains to prevent clogs
   • Consider installing root barriers if you have large trees near your sewer line
   • Address minor plumbing issues promptly to prevent them from affecting your main sewer line
   • Maintain proper grading around your foundation to prevent water accumulation near sewer lines