Recorded Video Footage
A professional sewer inspection report must include recorded video of the entire inspection. This isn't optional — it's your proof of what was found and provides documentation for insurance claims, contractor quotes, and future reference. The video should show the entire run from cleanout to property line or municipal connection, with clear timestamps and distance markers every 10-20 feet. Lighting should be adequate to identify cracks, roots, and defects. The inspector should narrate or annotate the video, calling out specific defects as they appear. You should receive a copy of the video in a common format (MP4, MOV) that you can share with contractors or store for your records.
Defect Documentation
Every defect found should be clearly documented with its specific location (measured in feet from the entry point), a description of the problem (root intrusion, crack, offset, belly, collapse), and a severity rating (minor, moderate, severe). The report should include still images or screenshots from the video showing each major defect. For cracks, the report should note the length and whether they're hairline or structural. For root intrusion, document the extent and density. For bellied pipes, note the depth of the sag and whether standing water is present. Offsets should be measured in inches and noted as joint separation or ground shifting.
Pipe Material and Condition Assessment
The report must identify the pipe material (PVC, ABS, clay, cast iron, Orangeburg, concrete) and provide an assessment of overall pipe condition. This helps you understand the expected lifespan and future maintenance needs. The inspector should note any signs of corrosion, scaling, or deterioration. For older pipes, the report should estimate the remaining useful life based on observed condition. If multiple pipe materials are present (common in older homes with partial replacements), the report should map where each material begins and ends.
Repair Recommendations and Cost Estimates
A complete report includes clear next-step recommendations for each defect found. Minor issues might warrant monitoring during future inspections. Moderate problems may need repair within 1-2 years. Severe defects require immediate attention. The report should distinguish between issues that can be resolved with hydro jetting or spot repairs versus those requiring pipe replacement. While the inspector shouldn't provide exact quotes (that's the contractor's job), a quality report will include general cost ranges based on industry standards: spot repairs ($500-$2,000), partial line replacement ($3,000-$8,000), or full line replacement ($10,000-$25,000).
Site Conditions and Access Notes
The report should document how the line was accessed (exterior cleanout, roof vent, toilet removal), note any obstacles or limitations that prevented full inspection, and describe the overall site conditions that might affect repairs. If roots were found, the report should identify nearby trees or vegetation that may be the source. For repairs requiring excavation, the inspector should note depth to pipe, soil type, and any obstacles like driveways, landscaping, or utility lines that could complicate repairs. This information helps contractors provide accurate quotes and plan the repair approach.