Drainage Surveys

A drainage CCTV survey is one of the fastest and most accurate ways to inspect underground drains and pipework without excavation. Using specialist waterproof cameras, drainage engineers can identify hidden problems inside your drainage system and provide clear evidence of the condition of your pipes.

Whether you own a home, manage a commercial property, or are buying a new building, a CCTV drain survey can help prevent small drainage issues from turning into expensive repairs.

When Should You Have a CCTV Drain Survey?

Persistent Blockages or Slow Draining

If sinks, toilets, baths, or external drains regularly block or drain slowly, there may be a deeper issue within the pipework. A CCTV survey can identify:

Fat, grease, or debris build-up
Tree root intrusion
Collapsed or cracked pipes
Scale deposits
Misaligned joints

Instead of guessing the cause, the survey pinpoints the exact location and severity of the problem.

After Flooding or Drain Backups

Flooding or sewage backups can damage underground drainage systems. A CCTV inspection allows engineers to assess whether pipes have cracked, shifted, or become obstructed following heavy rainfall or flooding events. Early detection helps avoid recurring drainage failures and further property damage.

Recurring Bad Smells

Unpleasant odours aerating around your property may indicate damaged pipework, trapped waste, or ventilation issues within the drainage system. A CCTV survey helps to trace the source of the smell quickly and accurately.

Building Extensions or Renovation Projects

If you are planning an extension, conversion, or landscaping works, a drain survey can identify the location and condition of underground drains and buried chambers, before construction begins.

This helps too:

Avoid accidental pipe damage
Confirm drainage capacity
Support planning and building regulation requirements
Identify whether build-over agreements may be needed

Suspected Structural Damage

Cracks in walls, damp patches, sinkholes, or subsidence can sometimes be linked to leaking or damaged drains underground. A CCTV survey can determine whether drainage defects are contributing to structural movement or water escape.

What Happens During a CCTV Drain Survey?

During the survey, a high-definition camera is inserted into the drainage system and guided through the pipework. The live footage allows engineers to inspect the condition of the drains in real time.

The survey can identify: