If you’re a homeowner in Rochester, MI, there’s a good chance your sewer line will need inspection and potential repairs at some point. Sewer lines can become clogged or damaged over time due to root intrusion, shifting soil, corrosion and other issues. Ignoring sewer line problems can lead to backups, overflows and expensive emergency repairs.
That’s why it’s important to have your sewer line periodically inspected and to hire a professional sewer line inspection service if issues are found. But with so many options in the Rochester area, how do you choose the right provider? Here are some tips:
Do Your Research
Don’t just go with the first Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI company you find online or in the phone book. Take the time to research and compare multiple providers in the area. Look at their websites, read reviews on third party sites, check for complaints with the Better Business Bureau and ask neighbors or friends for recommendations.
Pay attention to how long each company has been in business, what specific services they offer, what technology and inspection methods they use, whether they’re properly licensed and insured, and if they provide any kind of warranty or satisfaction guarantee. Avoid companies with little experience or numerous negative reviews.
Look for Full-Service Options
The best Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI providers are those that offer comprehensive sewer line inspection, repair and replacement services all under one roof. That means they have the equipment, expertise and capacity to not only thoroughly inspect your line, but also address any problems found during the inspection.
Some companies only focus on inspections but then outsource any needed repairs. Working with a full-service company simplifies the process since you only have to deal with one contractor from start to finish. They can seamlessly move from inspection to repair if issues are discovered.
Ask About Their Inspection Process
Sewer scopes and inspection processes can vary significantly between companies. When comparing providers, be sure to ask specifics about how they conduct line inspections, including:
- What type of camera/video equipment do they use? State-of-the-art Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI companies will use self-leveling, high-resolution video cameras that provide a sharp, detailed view of the entire interior of your lines. Avoid companies still using outdated systems.
- How far down the line will they inspect? The scope should be inserted as far down the line as possible from the cleanout access to provide maximum visibility. At a minimum, the full scope of the line on your property should be inspected.
- Will they thoroughly clean the line first? The line should be professionally cleaned and cleared of any debris, roots or buildup before inspection. This allows the camera a clear view and helps spot potential problems.
- Do they just look for current issues or assess overall condition? The best companies will evaluate your entire line and provide diagnostics about overall condition and any potential future issues like impending blockages. An inspection should provide more than a simple yes/no assessment of current blockages.
Verify Licensing, Insurance and Warranties
Don’t let just any handyperson handle something as important as a sewer line inspection. Make sure the Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI company you choose is properly licensed, bonded and insured. They should be able to provide current documentation upon request.
The company should also offer some type of warranty or guarantee covering the quality and accuracy of the inspection. Beware of providers that inspect but don’t back their work. Reputable companies will stand behind their inspections, especially if they miss identifying a major defect.
Get a Detailed Inspection Report
A quality sewer line inspection service will provide you with a full, written report detailing the findings, diagnostics, recommended repairs and associated costs. The report should include annotated video or photos from inside your lines.
Beware of inspectors that simply give you a quick verbal summary or only promise to “let you know if we find anything.” Documented reports protect you and let other contractors bidding on repairs have a clear picture of the issues.
Understand Pricing
Sewer line inspection costs can range from $100 to $300 or more depending on your location, the company, the scope of work and other factors. Get an upfront estimate from companies to avoid surprise charges.
Ask if there are any additional fees for things like rental equipment, accessing hard to reach lines, supplemental diagnostics or inspection of your private branch lines. Be wary of lowball estimates that may be excluding key charges or corners being cut.
Ask About Next Steps if Problems are Found
Any Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI service you choose should be ready and able to discuss next steps if your inspection uncovers issues needing repair. They should provide repair cost estimates and options. The best companies won’t just inspect but also have affiliation with reputable local plumbers and contractors to facilitate any needed sewer repairs or replacements.
Don’t Delay Inspections
Sewer lines that go years without inspection are most prone to catastrophic, costly breakdowns. To avoid emergency repairs, have your line periodically inspected based on age, material (older lines need more frequent inspections) and other risk factors. Many experts recommend inspections at least every 3-5 years.
Catching minor defects early before they escalate into major disasters is the key benefit of sewer line inspection. Don’t take a “wait and see” approach to potential sewer problems. Regular inspections and maintenance provides peace of mind and helps avoid plumbing disasters.
In Summary
Choosing the right sewer line inspection service involves:
- Researching options and choosing an established, reputable local provider
- Looking for full-service companies that can inspect and facilitate needed repairs
- Asking detailed questions about their inspection process and equipment
- Verifying licensing, insurance, warranties and guarantees
- Getting a detailed written report on inspection findings
- Understanding pricing and any additional fees
- Discussing next steps for any repairs or issues uncovered
- Scheduling periodic inspections to catch problems early
Taking the time to find an experienced, thorough Sewer Line Inspection Rochester MI company provides long-term value and peace of mind for one of the most important utility lines on your property. Don’t cut corners when it comes to properly maintaining your sewer and protecting against disastrous failures.