Septic tank service costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
A sewer line camera inspection in Washington, D.C., costs at least $240 for a 50-foot line and up to $1,100 for a 100-foot line.
PVC pipes are the least expensive to inspect at $240 to $420, while Orangeburg pipes cost $560 to $1,100.
A standard camera inspection starts at $200, and a specialty camera inspection can cost $2,600 or more.
The high cost of living in Washington, D.C., affects labor costs, so expect to pay $100 to $200 per hour for a sewer line camera inspection.
The cost for a sewer line camera inspection in Washington, D.C., averages $1,313, with homeowners often spending between $298 and $2,393. If your drains have been slow or you think your pipes may be damaged, a sewer line camera inspection can help pinpoint the problem. The price tag of this noninvasive inspection depends on several factors, including pipe size, material, and inspection type. Learn how much you could pay for this service to ensure your sewer line is looking good.
If you need a sewer line camera inspection in Washington, D.C., the following factors will have the biggest impact on your cost.
The length of your sewer line has a direct impact on inspection cost. Shorter lines take less time and require less equipment, resulting in lower charges. Most homes have sewer lines between 50 and 100 feet. Longer lines or properties with multiple branches can increase both time and cost. Inspecting several lines or additional branches may lead to extra fees.
| Pipe Length (Ft.) | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Under 50 | Small homes, easy access | $240–$350 |
| 50–100 | Standard home sewer line | $350–$560 |
| Over 100 | Large homes, long or complex runs | $560–$1,100 |
The material of your sewer pipes can influence both the complexity and cost of inspection. PVC pipes are straightforward to inspect and compatible with most cameras. Cast iron, clay, and Orangeburg pipes may require specialized equipment or techniques, increasing both time and cost. Some older or fragile materials may need extra care to avoid damage during inspection.
| Pipe Material | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| PVC | Modern, smooth, easy to inspect | $240–$420 |
| Cast iron | Older, rougher, may need advanced cameras | $350–$560 |
| Clay | Common in older homes, fragile, may require specialty cam | $420–$700 |
| Orangeburg | Rare, delicate, high risk of collapse | $560–$1,100 |
The technology used during your inspection plays a major role in the overall cost. A basic inspection uses a standard-definition camera to check for blockages and damage. Advanced inspections may involve high-definition (HD) cameras, 360-degree imaging, or equipment that records and stores video for later review. Specialty inspections might be required for unique problems or commercial properties.
A basic inspection is generally sufficient for routine maintenance or when checking for common clogs. However, if you need detailed documentation, have a complicated system, or want to confirm the condition before a major repair, advanced technology may be necessary. More advanced or specialty inspections come at a higher price point due to the need for specialized equipment and expertise.
| Inspection Type | Description | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Standard camera | Basic visual inspection, no recording | $200–$420 |
| HD camera | High-resolution video, possible recording/report | $420–$830 |
| Specialty camera | 360-degree, self-leveling, or for unique pipe materials | $830–$2,600+ |
You’ll need to hire a sewer cleaner in Washington, D.C., to perform your sewer line camera inspection. Here are the biggest factors to consider when putting together your budget to hire a pro for this project.
Depending on who you hire for your sewer inspection, you'll pay a flat fee per project for labor or a rate of $100 to $200 per hour. Expect labor costs to be higher for an emergency inspection conducted after normal business hours, on a weekend, or on a holiday. You’ll also pay higher labor costs if your inspector finds blockages or damage that requires attention.
The cost of living in Washington, D.C., is approximately 39% above the national average, which will translate to higher labor costs than typical rates in other areas.
Tipping is generally not required for this project, but you can certainly offer your pro a tip for a job well done. If you do want to tip, aim for $15 to $30 to show your appreciation.
For most homes, scheduling a sewer line camera inspection every one to two years is a smart way to maintain your plumbing and spot issues early. Inspections are also recommended before buying or selling a home, after experiencing major plumbing problems, or if you notice slow drains or unusual smells.
Seasonal changes can impact your sewer system. After heavy rains or before winter, it’s wise to check for blockages or cracks. Signs that indicate it’s time for an inspection include repeated backups, persistent clogs, or wet spots in your yard.
Regular inspections help you avoid emergency repairs and can significantly reduce long-term costs by catching problems before they worsen.
We don’t recommend DIY-ing a sewer line inspection because you run the risk of missing or misdiagnosing issues without professional training. Plus, the cost of renting or buying the necessary tools is high: Renting a sewer line inspection camera in Washington, D.C., costs $140 to $280 per day, while purchasing advanced cameras with recording features can cost $2,100 or more. Most homeowners don’t have the skills or experience to wield them correctly.
That’s why hiring a sewer line inspection pro is the best way to ensure a thorough, accurate inspection and to benefit from warranty protection. Professionals bring experience, specialized tools, and the ability to spot small problems before they become major repairs.
Home is the most important place on earth, which is why Angi has helped more than 150 million homeowners transform their houses into homes they adore. To help homeowners with their next project, Angi provides readers with the most accurate cost data and upholds strict editorial standards. We survey real Angi customers about their project costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.
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Install and replaced the hot water tank
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Service and communication were very prompt. However, $450 to snake a drain should have included myself NOT being necessary to assist in the snaking and a cleanup of the mess of septic liquids left on the floors. Fast service, good communication, but poor value for the money
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