Infrastructure System Assessments

Just like you schedule a doctor appointment, the hidden structures we rely on everyday need to get checkups too. Infrastructure is the backbone of our society and without it, disease would be more widespread, traveling would be harder, and utilities in the United States would not be available to the general population. While sewers, roadways, and other systems have become ordinary parts of daily life, these often unseen networks play a vital role in the comforts and safety we enjoy. That’s why municipalities, private utility companies, and other infrastructure decision makers should prioritize system assessments on a consistent basis.

How Often Should Infrastructure System Assessments be Conducted?

Assessments should be consistently performed to ensure the integrity of infrastructure systems. The frequency of assessments is dictated by several factors, including:

• Budget
• Internal vs external staffing
• Number of problems
• Goals for long term maintenance

Though there is no set timing for infrastructure assessments and maintenance, it is recommended that a system owner look into the condition of their system at minimum every 5-10 years. This timeline may be accelerated for infrastructure in critical areas and areas of higher failure risk. This may also be accelerated in highly critical areas where failure or problems would lead to a large-scale issues, such as system drainages that have large pump stations, wet wells, siphons, and interceptor lines.

Infrastructure System Assessments from USG

At USG, we understand the vital nature of infrastructure in our society. This is why we offer infrastructure assessments in addition to the services that repair these structures. Equally important to repair, system assessments prevent and catch ongoing damage, prepare contractors for repair, and allow insight into the condition of infrastructure. Here are the assessments we offer at USG:

NASSCO-Certified CCTV Inspections:

A cornerstone of USG’s assessment process is the use of CCTV inspections performed in accordance with NASSCO standards. These standards, developed by industry professionals, provide a consistent coding system and inspection methodology that ensures every defect, from fractures to blockages, is identified and communicated in a uniform language. Our NASSCO-certified personnel use a fleet of advanced robotic cameras to inspect both sanitary and storm pipes. Mainline cameras travel through larger pipes, while lateral cameras extend into connecting lines for detailed visibility. Steerable cameras add even more precision, especially in storm systems with multiple turns and blind connections. By combining advanced CCTV technology with NASSCO’s industry-wide framework, USG delivers reliable, standardized data that decision makers can trust.

System-Wide Assessment & Planning:

CCTV and NASSCO inspections form one critical component of a larger system-wide assessment. USG also performs manhole inspections, wet weather monitoring, flow meter monitoring, smoke testing, and system cleaning. The true value of an assessment comes from analyzing all of this data together: identifying problems, developing rehabilitation or replacement plans, and creating maintenance strategies tailored to each system. This comprehensive approach not only prevents costly surprises, but also helps municipalities and utilities build accurate year-to-year budgets, plan for system growth (such as new housing developments), and manage collection systems effectively for the long term.

Infrastructure systems are the backbone of our communities, and proactive assessments are key to keeping them functioning safely and reliably. By combining advanced technologies, certified expertise, and a system-wide perspective, USG helps municipalities, utilities, and private owners make informed decisions that protect budgets, support growth, and extend the life of critical infrastructure.
USG is the intersection of people, safety, service, and technology. If you’re ready to gain deeper insight into your infrastructure and plan with confidence, contact our team today to schedule your next system assessment.