CCTV Drain Inspection Melbourne: What It Is, When You Need It, What It Costs

What Is a CCTV Drain Inspection?

A CCTV drain inspection involves feeding a waterproof camera on a flexible rod through your drain pipes to visually inspect them from the inside. The camera transmits live footage to a monitor so our plumber can see exactly what's happening — cracks, joint separations, root intrusion, pipe collapse, grease build-up, and foreign objects are all clearly visible. It's the diagnostic equivalent of an X-ray for your drainage system.

When Do You Need One?

We recommend a CCTV inspection for any drain that has blocked more than once in 12 months, any unexplained slow drainage that doesn't respond to DIY clearing, before buying an older property (pre-purchase inspection), when multiple drains are slow simultaneously, and when you suspect tree root intrusion. Without a camera, a plumber is guessing at the cause — and guessing costs you money in the long run.

What Can a CCTV Camera Find?

A drain camera reveals tree root intrusion at specific joints, cracked or broken pipe sections, joint separations where pipes have shifted or settled, pipe bellying (sagging sections where waste pools and blockages form), foreign objects lodged in the pipe, incorrect fall or grading, and connections to the wrong drainage system.

Pre-Purchase Drain Inspections

A CCTV drain inspection before purchasing an older Melbourne property is one of the most valuable things a buyer can do. Drain replacement or relining is a significant expense — knowing the pipe condition before you sign gives you negotiating power and avoids nasty surprises after settlement. ATC Plumbing provides written reports suitable for use in property negotiations.

How Much Does It Cost?

A CCTV drain inspection typically costs $150–$300 for a standard residential inspection. When combined with high-pressure jetting on the same visit, many plumbers offer a combined price. ATC Plumbing carries camera equipment on every van — we can inspect on the spot when attending a blocked drain call. Call 1300 282 758 for same-day CCTV drain inspection across Melbourne's south-east.