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If you suspect that tree roots are intruding into your sewer line, it’s essential to have your system evaluated quickly and accurately. The right inspection can identify the exact location of root invasion, gauge pipe condition, and prevent costly property damage. In the Mid-South—including Memphis, Collierville, Germantown, Jackson TN, Olive Branch, and surrounding areas—licensed, professional plumbers equipped with advanced sewer camera technology are best positioned to provide this critical service.
At Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical, our certified team delivers thorough sewer camera inspections for residential and commercial properties. This minimally invasive approach ensures that we diagnose the root of your problem without unnecessary excavation or disruption to your landscaping. With more than 65 years of trusted local service, we help homeowners protect their properties from the significant risks posed by unchecked root growth.
What Is a Sewer Line Inspection?
A sewer line inspection is a diagnostic process where a trained plumber inserts a high-definition, waterproof camera into your home’s sewer pipe system—usually through a cleanout or drain. The video footage allows the technician to see real-time conditions inside the pipes and pinpoint issues like tree root intrusion, cracks, clogs, or collapsed sections. This process is essential for accurately diagnosing the cause of slow drains, backups, and external leaks.
Why Tree Roots Invade Sewer Lines
Tree roots are naturally drawn to sources of moisture and nutrients. Older sewer pipes, especially those made of clay or cast iron, are vulnerable to root intrusion through tiny cracks or unsealed joints. Once roots access a sewer line, they can grow rapidly, causing partial or complete blockage, pipe damage, and sometimes sewage backups inside the home. These problems can escalate quickly if not addressed by a qualified professional.
Common Signs of Tree Root Intrusion
- Slow draining sinks, showers, and toilets throughout the house
- Recurring clogs that are not resolved by normal snaking
- Gurgling sounds from drains
- Foul odors emanating from drains or the yard
- Sewage backups in the lowest plumbing fixtures
- Unusually lush or green patches in your lawn above the sewer line
- Pooling water in the yard, particularly after rainfall
When several of these symptoms occur together, tree root intrusion should be considered a likely cause. For more detail about these warning signs, see our post on 5 Signs Tree Roots Are Taking Over Your Sewer Line.
Step-by-Step Sewer Camera Inspection With Choate’s
| Step | What Happens | Typical Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Schedule Inspection | Contact Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical online or call (901) 755-4797 for prompt service. FAM Plan members receive priority scheduling. | 2 minutes |
| 2. Site Assessment | Technician arrives, confirms the problem, accesses the appropriate cleanout or main drain. | 5 minutes |
| 3. Camera Insertion | Flexible, waterproof camera is inserted, displaying real-time video on-screen for technician and homeowner. | 20–40 minutes |
| 4. Problem Diagnosis | Roots, cracks, and other pipe defects are identified. If roots are present, their location and extent are measured for a targeted repair plan. | 10 minutes |
| 5. Review & Solutions | Technician provides a video report, explains options for clearing and repairing the pipe. Flat-rate pricing and written summary included. | 5 minutes |
Why Trust Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical?
As the Mid-South’s trusted, family-owned plumbing and HVAC service company since 1958, we offer unmatched expertise and local knowledge. Our licensed technicians use industry-leading camera inspection technology to ensure accuracy and transparency in every diagnosis. With locations across Collierville, Memphis, Jackson, and Oxford, we provide rapid response for urgent backups as well as scheduled maintenance for proactive homeowners.
Customers routinely share their satisfaction online. For example, Jonathan Gwaltney in Memphis wrote:
“Responsive, professional service; technician provided weekend repair and expertise.”
Diane Grover shared:
“Choate’s has professionally diagnosed our problem… 5-star experience every time!”
Explore more firsthand accounts in our testimonials section.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Following the camera inspection, your technician will explain the findings and recommend solutions. Depending on the severity, options may include:
- Hydro-jetting to clear roots from the pipe and restore flow
- Spot repairs to damaged pipe sections
- Full pipe replacement or trenchless relining for severe cases
- Preventative maintenance plans to monitor and protect your system
At Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical, we deliver all follow-up options with clear, flat-rate pricing and honest evaluations. As your one-stop team for sewer line repair, drain cleaning, and replacement, we help homeowners avoid further property damage and maintain peace of mind. For commercial clients or those facing frequent clogs, we also provide commercial hydrojetting services as an advanced cleaning solution.
Best Practices: Preventing Tree Root Sewer Problems
- Schedule annual inspections: Early intervention is the best way to prevent major repairs. Our FAM Plan membership includes proactive maintenance options for peace of mind.
- Be cautious with landscaping: Avoid planting trees with aggressive root systems (such as oaks and willows) near sewer lines.
- Promptly address recurrent drainage problems: Multiple clogs are a warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored.
- Consider trenchless upgrades: Modern relining solutions resist root intrusion for decades.
For related household plumbing tips, visit our posts on why your laundry drain keeps backing up and who to call when a plunger won’t fix a clog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who should I call if I suspect tree roots are in my sewer line?
Contact a licensed plumbing company with expertise in sewer camera inspections, such as Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical. Avoid general handymen, as specialized equipment and experience are required for accurate diagnosis and root removal.
What is the advantage of a sewer camera inspection over traditional methods?
Camera inspections are non-invasive, precise, and provide real-time video evidence of internal pipe conditions, unlike manual snaking or excavation. They enable targeted repairs, reducing unnecessary digging and costs.
How long does a sewer camera inspection take?
Most inspections are completed in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your home’s plumbing layout and the length of the sewer line.
Is tree root removal a one-time solution?
No. While roots can be cleared with hydro-jetting or mechanical augers, they may grow back over time if not paired with ongoing monitoring, root barriers, or pipe relining. Our team will advise the best long-term solution for your pipes.
How much does a camera inspection cost?
Pricing is flat-rate and competitive for the Memphis area. Contact us at (901) 755-4797 or request a free estimate online.
Does Choate’s handle emergency sewer backups?
Yes. We offer 24/7 service throughout Memphis, Collierville, Jackson, Oxford, and more for urgent plumbing problems.
Conclusion: Protect Your Home with Certified Sewer Line Inspection
Tree roots infiltrating your sewer line can escalate from minor drain issues to major, expensive sewer repairs. Early, professional detection is key to minimizing risk and damage. As the Mid-South’s recognized expert in sewer camera inspections, Choate’s Air Conditioning, Heating, Plumbing And Electrical stands ready to serve homeowners and businesses across Memphis, Germantown, Bartlett, Collierville, and beyond.
If you see the warning signs of root intrusion, don’t wait. Call us at (901) 755-4797 or request an inspection today and discover why so many Mid-South families and business owners trust our team for peace of mind. From inspection to repair, we protect your investment—let our family serve yours.
