If you’re frequently dealing with plumbing inspections, pipe diagnostics, or maintenance contracts, the bigger question might be:
Should you rent or buy a sewer inspection camera?
Whether you’re a licensed plumber, municipal inspector, or facilities manager, understanding the cost-benefit of renting vs. buying a sewer borescope or videoscope can save you time, money, and long-term headaches.
We’ll break down the pros and cons of each option, helping plumbers, contractors, and facility managers decide which choice saves the most money, supports your workflow, and aligns with your inspection volume.
Whether you need a camera for occasional jobs or daily diagnostics, this guide will help you choose the best path for your business.
When Renting a Sewer Camera Makes Sense
Renting a professional-grade sewer camera can be a smart, cost-effective choice in several situations:
Occasional or One-Time Needs
- DIY homeowners: Handling a single diagnostic job to locate a blockage or inspect a sewer line.
- Small plumbing operations: For businesses without daily inspection demands, renting avoids the upfront cost of ownership.
- Project-based teams: When you need equipment for a specific site or short-term project without committing to a purchase.
Want to Test Before You Invest
Renting gives you the opportunity to evaluate a camera’s:
- Image quality and clarity
- Flexibility in tight or complex piping systems
- Cable length for your typical jobs
- Portability, battery life, and power features
This is especially helpful when deciding between push cameras, pan-and-tilt models, or wireless videoscopes to see what best fits your workflow.
Need a Temporary Replacement
If your current inspection camera is in for repair or temporarily unavailable, renting allows you to continue your workflow without delays and maintain service for your customers.
Prefer to Skip Maintenance and Calibration
Rental equipment is typically ready to use, fully tested, and supported by experts. This means you don’t have to worry about:
- Battery charging or replacements
- Firmware updates
- Lens cleaning or calibration
You can focus on completing your inspections efficiently and simply return the unit when the job is done.
When Buying a Sewer Inspection Camera Is the Better Investment
While renting is practical for short-term needs, purchasing a sewer inspection camera often pays off in the long run under the following circumstances:
You Perform Inspections Regularly
For plumbers, contractors, and inspectors who use sewer cameras on a weekly or daily basis, owning your equipment provides a fast return on investment. You avoid recurring rental fees and eliminate the hassle of scheduling or availability conflicts.
You Want Lower Long-Term Costs
Although the upfront investment for a professional sewer camera can seem high, it often becomes more affordable than repeated rentals over time. Consider the additional costs that come with renting:
- Rental fees are accumulating with each project
- Travel time and expenses to pick up and return equipment
- Potential downtime if a rental unit isn’t available when you need it
Owning your camera ensures it’s ready when you are, keeping your workflow efficient and uninterrupted.
You Want Full Control Over Your Gear
Purchasing your own sewer camera allows you to:
- Select the exact specifications you need, such as probe length, resolution, and self-leveling capabilities
- Customize or accessorize the system with additional tools or attachments
- Train your team on a consistent model, reducing learning curves and mistakes
- Keep inspection records and video files stored locally or in your preferred software for organized documentation
You Need Consistent Reporting Quality
Rental equipment can vary in condition, image quality, and available features. When you own your sewer inspection camera, you can rely on consistent, high-quality output for client reports, insurance documentation, and compliance audits, ensuring your business maintains a professional standard on every job.
Pros and Cons Summary
| Renting | Buying | |
| Upfront Cost | ✅ Low | ❌ High |
| Maintenance | ✅ None | ❌ Your responsibility |
| Flexibility | ✅ Test different models | ✅ Customize for your needs |
| Availability | ❌ Limited by inventory | ✅ Always on hand |
| Long-Term ROI | ❌ Cost adds up | ✅ Higher savings over time |
| Professional Image | ⚠️ Can vary | ✅ Consistent and branded |
Final Verdict: Is Sewer Camera Inspection Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re diagnosing root intrusion, detecting pipe collapse, verifying cleanouts, or identifying blockages, sewer camera inspections are an invaluable tool that saves money, prevents costly damage, and builds trust with your clients. Early detection through video inspection means fewer surprises, less invasive repairs, and a more efficient workflow overall.
If you perform more than 3 to 5 inspections per month, investing in your own sewer camera typically offers the best financial return. Ownership eliminates recurring rental fees, scheduling hassles, and downtime, while providing you with a reliable, consistent tool tailored to your specific needs.
Explore Your Sewer Inspection Solutions Today
- Shop Sewer Videoscopes: Browse our selection of professional-grade sewer cameras designed for accuracy, durability, and ease of use.
- View Rental Options: Need short-term access or want to test before you buy? Our rental program offers flexible solutions for every job.
- Get Expert Guidance: Not sure which model fits your projects? Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you select the perfect inspection equipment based on your workflow, budget, and industry.
Don’t let uncertainty or outdated tools slow down your inspections. Take control of your work quality and efficiency by choosing the right sewer inspection equipment today. Contact USA Borescopes now to get started with the best solutions tailored to your business.