How Much Does a CCTV Drain Inspection Cost in 2025?

About 30% of Australian homes deal with blocked drains every year. That’s why many homeowners are increasingly relying on CCTV drain inspections to identify issues promptly.

If you’re trying to figure out how much it’ll cost you in Sydney, we’ve got you. This blog covers everything you need to know before booking.

What Is a CCTV Drain Inspection?

A CCTV drain inspection is a modern plumbing solution that uses a high-resolution, waterproof camera to investigate the inside of your pipes. The footage streams live to a monitor, giving the plumber a clear view of what’s happening underground, without digging.

The camera is gently inserted into your drainage system through an accessible entry point like a maintenance hole or inspection opening. As it travels through the pipes, it captures crystal-clear images and videos of the internal condition. It can reveal everything from small cracks and pipe displacements to major blockages that are caused either by tree root intrusions or fat and grease build-up.

The best part? A CCTV inspection helps you make confident decisions about next steps.

What Are the Benefits of a CCTV Drain Inspection?

• Non-Invasive
• Fast and Accurate Diagnosis
• Visual Proof
• Ideal for Maintenance
• Property Peace of Mind

When to Consider a CCTV Drain Inspection

• Recurring Blockages: If your sinks, toilets, or showers keep clogging, even after clearing, it could be a sign of a deeper issue like a collapsed pipe. A drain camera can confirm exactly what’s going on.
• Slow Draining: Water taking forever to drain? That’s usually a sign of a blockage somewhere down the line. A CCTV inspection helps locate the problem accurately.
• Unpleasant Odours: If you smell something foul near your drains, there might be trapped debris or a broken pipe. A visual inspection will track down the cause before it worsens.
• Gurgling Sounds: If you hear gurgling or bubbling noises, it’s a sign that something’s disrupting the normal flow in your pipes. A camera can spot any hidden blockages or air pockets affecting the flow.
• Before Buying Property: Spotting problems before you sign means fewer headaches and a much smoother move-in experience.

Factors Influencing the Cost

Several elements can affect the overall cost of a CCTV drain inspection, and those are:

• Length and Complexity of the Drainage System: Longer or more intricate systems require more time and will increase costs.
• Accessibility: If the drain is difficult to access, additional equipment or labour is needed.
• Equipment Used: Advanced equipment, like pan and tilt cameras, can provide more detailed inspections but will come at a higher cost.

What Is the Cost of CCTV Drain Inspection in Sydney?

In 2025, the cost of a CCTV drain inspection in Sydney typically ranges between $250 and $550. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

• Basic CCTV Drain Inspection: For standard inspections with clear access, most plumbing companies charge around $250 to $350.
• Drain Cleaning + CCTV Inspection: If the pipe is blocked and needs to be cleared before the inspection can even begin, expect the price to be in the range of $400 to $550. This usually includes jet blasting or root cutting, followed by a full camera inspection.
• Pan & Tilt or Robotic Camera Inspections: For larger or more complex drainage systems (e.g., commercial properties or wide stormwater drains), pan-and-tilt cameras or crawler units are used. These high-tech inspections can cost $500 or more, depending on time and accessibility.

Important to note:

• After-hours or emergency inspections come with an additional fee.
• You should always ask if a digital copy of the footage and a written report are included in the price.

These figures are based on estimated rates listed by leading plumbing companies in Sydney as of 2025. Getting a quote upfront and confirming what’s included will help you ensure you’re paying for exactly what you need.

Conclusion

CCTV drain inspections are one of the smartest ways to protect your property from hidden plumbing problems. While prices can vary, knowing the estimated costs and what’s involved means you’re better prepared when it’s time to book a service.

If you’re in Sydney and looking for a reliable, local expert, Fix N Flow has you covered. Our experienced plumbing team uses industry-leading CCTV technology to deliver fast, accurate, and hassle-free inspections.

Call us on 1300 319 275 to speak with one of our friendly team members or simply fill out our online form, and we’ll get back to you promptly to organise your inspection. No stress. No surprises. Just smart plumbing solutions from a crew that gets the job done right the first time.