The cost of a CCTV drain survey in the United States varies by access, pipe length, and groundwater conditions. Typical price ranges reflect equipment use, labor, and reporting. Cost transparency helps buyers compare estimates and plan budgets accurately.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basic video inspection | $250 | $350 | $700 | Short run, accessible cleanout |
| Full diagnostic survey | $450 | $650 | $1,200 | Includes reports and diagnostics |
| Camera inspection by scout/remote location | $150 | $300 | $600 | Limited access or remote setup |
| Labor for long runs | $150 | $350 | $900 | Hourly or flat rate per crew |
| Report and recommendations | $100 | $200 | $400 | Includes video stills |
Overview Of Costs
Typical project ranges combine site access, run length, and job complexity. In residential settings, a single drain under 60 feet is usually in the low to mid range, while longer or multi‑branch lines lift the price toward the high end. The per‑foot cost often falls between 4 and 12 dollars when measured by drain length, with fixed diagnostic and reporting fees added for larger jobs.
Cost Breakdown
| Materials | Labor | Equipment | Permits | Delivery/Disposal | Warranty | Taxes | Contingency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic tapes, probes, dye | Labor for inspection crew | Video camera, pushrod system, access tools | Potential permit fees in some jurisdictions | Truck fuel, disposal of drill cuttings if needed | Manufacturer warranty on equipment | State and local taxes | Typically 5–10% of project |
Pricing Variables
Key drivers include access and pipe diameter. A tight crawl space or blocked access increases labor time and may require equipment rental or specialized tools. Pipe diameter and material influence image clarity and inspection difficulty; larger homes with multiple branches raise both length and crew requirements. Sealed or hard‑to‑reach systems may incur extra charges for additional setup or rodding stages.
Ways To Save
Plan for essentials first and request bundled pricing. To reduce costs, obtain a single quote covering inspection, report, and recommendations. Consolidate visits if possible to avoid repeated truck and crew mobilization, and compare estimates from licensed pros who provide a standard scope of work and transparent pricing.
Regional Price Differences
Prices vary by region due to labor rates and housing stock. In the Northeast, higher city labor costs may push the average closer to the upper end. The Midwest often offers moderate pricing with shorter travel times. The Southwest can vary with climate impacts on access and crew scheduling. Expect roughly a 10–25 percent delta between these regions for similar job scopes.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Typical crew rates range from 75 to 180 dollars per hour. A standard inspection for a single cleanout could require 2–4 hours, while complex or multi‑branch systems may take 6–12 hours. Some firms price by the foot, others by a flat rate plus a fixed reporting fee. Always confirm the expected hours and what is included in the quoted rate.
Extras & Add-Ons
Additional charges commonly include access drilling, cleaning, and camera upgrade fees. Extras may cover dye tests, flow measurements, or root intrusion assessment. If the system demands deep trenching or major excavation, the project moves into a higher tier with correspondingly elevated costs. Confirm any potential charges for night work or after‑hours scheduling.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Scenario A Basic — 40 feet, accessible cleanout, single drain, standard documentary report: 2 hours labor, $250 equipment, $100 report, total around $450.
Scenario B Mid-Range — 110 feet, multiple branches, limited access, enhanced reporting: 5 hours labor, $320 equipment, $180 report, total around $1,000.
Scenario C Premium — 220 feet, complex layout, needs dye tests and detailed diagnostics: 9 hours labor, $520 equipment, $260 report, total around $1,600.
Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.