What Does a Manhole Inspection Check For?
Why Manhole Inspections Matter
Manholes give crews access to the sewer mains that run beneath our streets and properties. A thorough manhole inspection checks the health of that access point and the pipes it serves. At The Sewer Kings, we inspect manholes for property owners and businesses across South Jersey.
A manhole may look like just a metal cover, but it protects a lot below. Small problems there can grow into big failures.
The crews at The Sewer Kings check every part of the structure, not just the parts you can see from the street.
Here is exactly what a proper inspection looks at and why each part matters.
The Structure: Frame, Cover, and Walls
The first thing an inspection checks is the physical shape of the manhole itself.
Cover and Frame
We check the cover and frame for cracks, rust, and a proper fit. A loose or broken cover is a safety hazard and lets debris fall in.
Walls and Joints
The walls are checked for cracks, missing material, and worn joints. Damage here can let the structure fail over time.
Steps and Access
If the manhole has built-in steps, we check that they are sound and safe for crews who need to enter.
Depth and Alignment
We confirm the structure sits at the right depth and lines up with the pipes it serves. A shifted manhole stresses every connection.
Water Infiltration and Flow Problems
A big part of any inspection is watching how water moves, and where it should not.
Infiltration
We look for groundwater leaking in through cracks. Extra water overloads the system and can flood lines during heavy rain.
Flow and Blockage
We check that waste flows freely through the channel at the base. Grease, debris, or roots can choke the flow and cause backups upstream.
Buildup and Corrosion
Sewer gases eat away at concrete over time. We check for corrosion and the buildup of solids that signal a deeper problem.
Root Intrusion
Roots push through cracks and joints just like they do in house lines. We note any roots so they can be cleared before they choke the flow.
Why Regular Inspections Save Money
A manhole inspection is a small step that prevents large, messy repairs.
Catch Problems Early
A hairline crack is cheap to seal. A collapsed structure is not. Regular checks catch trouble while it is still small.
Protect the Whole System
A failing manhole can pull down the pipes around it. Keeping it sound protects your larger sewer investment.
The Sewer Kings documents every inspection with clear notes and photos, so you know the exact condition of your system.
A Safety Check for the Public
A cracked lid or crumbling wall is a fall hazard. A quick inspection keeps the structure safe for everyone who passes over it.
Cleaner Local Waterways
A leaking manhole lets waste escape and lets groundwater flood in. A sound structure protects nearby streams and the wider system.
Types of Manhole Inspections
Not every inspection is the same. The right one depends on what you need to learn.
Visual Surface Check
A quick look at the cover, frame, and the top of the structure spots obvious damage and safety issues fast.
Full Interior Inspection
A deeper inspection uses cameras to check the walls, base channel, and connecting pipes for cracks, flow issues, and corrosion.
Follow-Up After Repairs
After work is done, a follow-up confirms the fix held and the structure is sound before we close it out.
Manhole Inspection FAQ
How often should a manhole be inspected?
It depends on age and use, but a routine check every few years catches most problems early. Older systems and heavy-use sites benefit from more frequent looks.
Do you use cameras for manhole inspections?
Yes. We use cameras to inspect the manhole and the connecting lines, so we see the full condition without anyone entering a confined space when it is not needed.
What happens if you find damage?
We show you the findings with notes and photos, then lay out repair options. You get a clear picture before any work is scheduled.
Talk to a Local Drainage Expert Today
The Sewer Kings is a family-run drainage and sewer company serving Evesham and all of South Jersey.
Call The Sewer Kings at 609-357-0547. We provide manhole inspection and related drainage services throughout South Jersey, available 24/7 for emergencies.