Why We Recommend Camera Inspections Before Every Sewer Job in Council Bluffs

If you’ve ever had a sewer backup, you know how stressful — and messy — it can be.

But what many Council Bluffs homeowners don’t realize is that the real cause of most sewer issues lies deep underground, and guessing what’s wrong can cost more time and money than necessary.

That’s why at McIntosh Plumbing, we start every sewer repair or replacement with a video camera inspection — the fastest, most accurate way to find the root of the problem before digging or repairing a single pipe.

Traditional sewer repair used to rely on guesswork — plumbers had to dig, probe, or test sections of pipe to locate a clog or break. That meant extra labor, unnecessary digging, and higher costs for the homeowner.

Today, modern camera inspections make that old approach obsolete. Here’s what sewer issues often hide below ground in Council Bluffs:

1. Tree root intrusion — roots break through joints and block flow
2. Pipe offsets or collapses — common in older clay or cast iron lines
3. Grease and scale buildup — restricting flow and causing slow drains
4. Broken joints or cracks — letting in soil or groundwater
5. “Bellies” or low spots — trapping waste and creating recurring clogs

Without a camera inspection, you’re essentially working blind — and that can lead to repeat problems and unnecessary repair costs down the road.

Council Bluffs is full of older homes, many with original sewer lines made from clay tile or cast iron — materials that naturally deteriorate over time. Combine that with tree-lined yards, shifting Midwestern soil, and heavy rain seasons, and sewer issues can develop fast.

Here’s why we recommend camera inspections on every sewer job:

• Pinpoint the problem — Know exactly where and what’s causing the issue before digging.
• Avoid unnecessary excavation — Only repair what’s broken, saving time and money.
• Document the condition — Get a clear, recorded look at your sewer line for insurance or real estate needs.
• Prevent future issues — Identify early signs of root intrusion or pipe corrosion before they lead to backups.

A simple inspection today can save you thousands in repair costs tomorrow.

Our sewer camera inspection process is quick and non-destructive:

1. Access the sewer cleanout – We insert a flexible, high-resolution camera into your main line.
2. View the entire pipe in real time – The camera transmits live footage, allowing us to locate cracks, clogs, or roots.
3. Record and assess – We document the findings, mark exact problem areas, and show you the footage so you can see the issue firsthand.
4. Recommend solutions – Based on what we find, we’ll give you clear, honest options — whether that’s hydro jetting, spot repair, or full line replacement.

If you’re a Council Bluffs homeowner, here are a few times when a sewer camera inspection is a must:

1. Before buying or selling a home — Avoid surprises by checking the condition of underground lines.
2. After multiple drain backups — Persistent clogs often mean there’s damage deeper down.
3. Before major plumbing or remodeling work — Know your line’s layout and condition first.
4. As preventative maintenance every few years — Early detection keeps small issues from becoming emergencies.

At McIntosh Plumbing, we believe in fixing things the right way — not guessing. Our sewer camera inspections take the mystery out of plumbing problems and give Council Bluffs homeowners clear answers before the work begins.

If you’re dealing with slow drains, backups, or need a second opinion, schedule your sewer camera inspection today. You’ll get peace of mind knowing exactly what’s happening — and how to fix it.

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