Stop heavy water use
If the line is backing up, avoid laundry, showers and flushing until it is cleared.
Need to see inside a sewer line that keeps backing up?
A camera inspection shows roots, breaks, sags and blockages inside a sewer line so repairs target the real problem. Call 833-877-1717. RepairNowUSA connects the request. An independent provider does the work.
Am I in the right place?Yes for repeated backups, before buying a property, or after clearing a clog.
Is this urgent?Urgent only if backing up now.
What do I do next?Call 833-877-1717.
Backing up now: main line clog.
RepairNowUSA editorial review · Last substantively reviewed October 14, 2026 · Review standards
What to do now
Find the cleanout
Many homes have a sewer cleanout outside or in the basement. Knowing where it is helps the plumber.
Note the history
Write down when backups happened and what was done. It helps decide whether a camera inspection is needed.
Not a fix by itself
A camera inspection finds problems; repairs are a separate step.
Common situations
Repeat backups
If clogs return after cleaning, a camera shows whether roots, a sag or a break is the cause.
Before buying a property
A camera inspection can reveal sewer problems that a standard home inspection does not cover.
After tree root removal
A camera confirms the roots are gone and shows damage that may need repair.
Before choosing a repair
Pipe lining, spot repair or replacement depends on what the camera finds. See trenchless sewer repair.
What to have ready when you call
- Property ZIP code and whether it is a home, rental or business
- Why you want the inspection: backups, buying or planning a repair
- Whether the line is backing up now
- Where the cleanout is, if known
- Age of the property and any past sewer work
How a sewer camera inspection usually works
- Access the line. The camera goes in through a cleanout, a toilet flange or a roof vent.
- Record the run. The plumber pushes the camera along the line and records what it sees.
- Locate problems. Many cameras have a locator so the plumber can mark the location and depth of problems from above ground.
- Review options. The plumber explains what was found and the repair options.
A clog may need to be cleared before the camera can see the full line. Ask whether cleaning is included.
What happens when you call RepairNowUSA
- Describe what is happening in plain words and give the property ZIP code. You do not need to know which trade to ask for.
- RepairNowUSA checks for a participating independent provider who handles sewer camera inspection in that area.
- If one is available, you are connected. The provider confirms timing, access, scope and price with you before any work.
- The provider, not RepairNowUSA, diagnoses and performs the repair.
RepairNowUSA is a referral and connection service. Provider availability and response times vary by location, time and demand, and are not guaranteed. Before you approve work, ask what was found, the price, the timing and what is not included.
Call 833-877-1717Need to see inside a sewer line that keeps backing up questions
Do I get the video?
Many plumbers provide the recording or photos. Ask before the inspection.
Does a camera inspection fix the problem?
No. It shows the problem. Repairs are a separate step.
Can a camera find where the line is broken?
Often, yes. A locator on the camera head lets the plumber mark the spot and depth above ground.
Is a camera inspection worth it before buying a house?
For older homes or homes with large trees, many buyers find it useful because sewer repairs can be expensive.
Can I call at night or on a weekend?
Yes. You can call 833-877-1717 at any time, including nights, weekends and holidays. Whether an independent provider can come out right away depends on your ZIP code, the time and provider capacity, so availability is not guaranteed.
Authoritative references
These public sources give general safety context. They do not replace an on-site evaluation, and RepairNowUSA does not perform the work.