How to Read Your Sewer Inspection Report

A sewer inspection report is a map of your pipe’s condition, and once you know how to read it, you hold real power over your next decision. The Pipe Medic makes sure every client walks away understanding exactly what their report says, not just what it costs to fix.

If you’ve recently scheduled sewer camera inspection services in Marietta, GA, this breakdown will help you interpret your findings before your technician even picks up the phone.

What the Footage Markers Actually Mean

Every defect in your report is tagged with a distance from the cleanout or access point. So “crack at 14 ft” means the damage starts 14 feet into the line. This matters because location determines how the repair gets done, from spot repair to full replacement.

A pipe camera inspection captures this footage in real time, and your report should include either a video file or timestamped screenshots tied to each entry.

Cracking the Defect Codes

Reports often use standardized NASSCO (National Association of Sewer Service Companies) codes. Some of the most common ones you’ll see:

RB – Root Ball (roots clustered inside the pipe)

RF – Root Fine (smaller root intrusions)

CC – Crack Circumferential (a crack that wraps around the pipe)

CL – Crack Longitudinal (a crack running along the pipe’s length)

OB – Obstruction (grease, debris, or foreign material)

IS – Intruding Seals or Joint Separation

Not every company uses NASSCO codes, so if codes look unfamiliar, request a key from your inspector.

The Severity Scale: What Grades Actually Mean

Many reports assign each defect a grade from 1 to 5. Grade 1 is surface-level wear. Grade 5 means structural failure is either happening or imminent. A grade 3 or above typically warrants a follow-up plumbing inspection to determine repair scope and timeline.

Don’t ignore the grades just because the pipe is still draining. Grades 3 through 5 can affect neighboring infrastructure over time.

Pipe Material Notes and Why They Change Everything

Your report should identify what the pipe is made of, because material directly affects repair method and lifespan expectations. Common materials include:

• Clay – Older, prone to root intrusion and joint separation
• Cast Iron – Durable but corrodes over decades
• PVC – Modern standard, generally lower maintenance
• Orangeburg – A mid-century material known for deteriorating from the inside out

What the Recommendations Section Is Really Telling You

This is the section most homeowners skip straight to, and for good reason. But read it in context of the defect log. A recommendation to “monitor” means low urgency. “Schedule repair” means within the next few months. “Immediate action required” means the pipe is at risk of collapse or backup.

Frequently Asked Pipe Inspection Questions

Does a clean inspection report mean my pipes are not defective?

Not exactly. A report shows the condition of the pipe at the time of inspection. Seasonal root growth, shifting soil, and heavy rain can change conditions relatively quickly. Annual re-inspection is often recommended for older pipe materials.

Can I get a second opinion on my report?

Yes, and you should if you feel uncertain. A reputable company will let you share the video file with another technician for review.

What if my report shows no defects but I still have slow drains?

The issue may be in a branch line (drains from sinks/toilets not on the main sewer line) that wasn’t scoped, or it could be a venting or pressure issue rather than a blockage. Ask specifically about full-system coverage.

How long should I keep my inspection report?

Indefinitely. It becomes part of your property’s service history and can affect home sale negotiations, insurance claims, and permit applications.

Here’s Where the Report Ends and the Real Work Begins

A report is only useful if someone helps you understand what it means. The Pipe Medic serves residential, commercial, and industrial properties across the area with transparent reporting, honest recommendations, and pricing that doesn’t punish you for asking questions.

Veterans receive 10% off all services, and financing options are available for those who need flexibility.

Our commitment to 100% customer satisfaction means we don’t walk away until you understand exactly what’s in your report and what comes next.

Call The Pipe Medic today.