Cross-Bore Inspection of Sewer Lines
A cross bore is a utility line, often gas, drilled right through a sewer pipe. A camera can find it before a drain cleaner does.
- Locating & Mapping
- Video recorded
- Middle Tennessee
RECCH 0500:00:00Cross-Bore Inspection explained.
When utility crews install lines by horizontal drilling without locating the sewer first, the new line can pass straight through the sewer pipe. The result is a cross bore: a hidden hazard that stays quiet until something cuts through it.
A camera inspection is how cross bores are found. We look for utility lines crossing the sewer and for the signs that one may be there. We report what we see and recommend you contact your utility. We never cut or disturb a suspected line.
The deliverables.
A real safety check
Find a crossing before anyone cleans the line mechanically.
Camera evidence
See and record the crossing.
Protects crews and occupants
Especially before sewer cleaning or repairs.
Clear next step
Documentation for your utility.
How it runs.
A clear sequence from first look to final walkthrough.
- 01
Inspect before cleaning
We camera the line before any mechanical cleaning.
- 02
Look for crossings
Utility lines passing through the pipe are recorded.
- 03
Stop and document
If we see one, we stop and note the location.
- 04
Notify
We advise you to call your utility with the footage.
Often paired with this.
FILE C-01 LocateSewer Line LocatingA small transmitter rides the camera through your pipe, and a receiver above ground traces its path and…Open file 
FILE A-15 InspectPan-Tilt-Zoom (PTZ)A PTZ camera head can swivel and zoom to examine a crack, a tap or a joint in…Open file 
FILE C-06 LocateBefore You DigBefore the fence crew, pool builder or landscaper starts digging, mark your private sewer so nobody cuts it.Open file 
FILE E-03 VerifyCleaning & Hydro-JettingHigh-pressure water scours grease, scale and roots from the pipe wall, and the camera proves what it did.Open file Read more on this topic.
FIELD NOTE 027 Locating & LeaksWhat Is a Cross Bore?A hidden hazard where a utility line passes through a sewer pipe, and why cameras matter before cleaning.2 min read FIELD NOTE 029 Locating & LeaksCall 811 Before You Dig, and What About Your Sewer?The public locate service marks public utilities. Your private sewer usually needs its own locate.2 min read 
FIELD NOTE 012 Buying & Selling a HomeQuestions to Ask Your Sewer InspectorA short checklist for choosing an inspector and getting a report you can use.2 min read Cross-Bore Check FAQ.
Is cross bore common?
It is rare for any single line, but trenchless utility installation has made it a real concern, which is why inspection before mechanical cleaning is recommended.
What if you find one?
We stop, record it, tell you and recommend you contact the utility. Do not use any mechanical drain cleaner on that line.
Do I need this if my line is old?
Age is not the factor. The question is whether utility work was done nearby. If you are not sure, ask us.
Cross-Bore Check across Middle Tennessee.
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See what is under there.
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