A1 UK Drains Ltd

CCTV Drain Surveys

What Is A CCTV Drain Survey?

A CCTV drain survey is one of the methods used by A1 UK Drains to quickly and efficiently detect leaks in largely inaccessible drainage systems. The main advantage here is that our qualified engineers are able to see where the problems lie without having to conduct exploratory digs.

To conduct a CCTV drain survey we use specialist drain camera equipment in drainage pipework to determine whether there is a defect in the line and the cause of any blockages. 

As well as locating blockages and detecting the cause of the blockage, such as root intrusion, our cameras can also detect whether there is disjointed or cracked pipework, a build up of scale, blistered pitch fibre pipework etc…

By finding out what the problem is, we can then advise on the best course of action to take to remedy the situation and keep your drains flowing freely.

When Is A CCTV Drain Survey Necessary?

If a blockage can’t be located and shifted, or the cause of a repeated blockage is unknown then our drain CCTV cameras will get to the bottom of things.

If there is a bad smell evident but no visible sign of a blockage, our cameras will quickly determine if there is a blockage in your system or not.

Older drains in particular are vulnerable to a number of faults including damage caused by subsidence, tree root growth, blistering and pests such as rodents. Leaks, if left undetected, can go on to cause damage to your property.

CCTV drain surveys are also invaluable in detecting minor leaks, cracks and subsidence so that drains can be quickly repaired before the damage becomes extensive or even irreparable. And when you are buying a new property, you want to know it’s in the best condition.

One area that remains hidden, however, is the drainage system. CCTV drain surveys from A1 UK Drains allow you to know for sure what condition the drains are in before you buy.

Drain pipe full of rubble.

CCTV Drain Surveys For Construction Works

Before starting construction works for example on a house extension you may need to know the layout of the existing pipework and manholes. Our CCTV surveys will provide measurements for distances between manholes allowing them to be located even if hidden from site. And if you are planning to use or connect onto an existing drain system, it makes sense to know its condirion before doing so.

Before handing over a completed major construction development where a new drainage system may have been installed or an existing system could have been infiltrated by building materials it makes sense to conduct a CCTV survey of the drainage network to ensure it is running freely, clear of debris and fault free before handover.

Similarly, if you have built an extension or installed new pipework on a domestic property it is good practice to conduct a drain CCTV survey on completion to confirm that the system is in good working order.

CCTV Drain Surveys For Homebuyers

When buying a property the standard RICS survey does not provide an assessment of the drainage system. Without carrying out a drainage CCTV survey prior to purchase you could be inheriting some severe problems that could cost thousands of pounds to put right.

It’s best to know of any existing or potential problems such as root intrusion and collapsed drains for instance, well in advance of committing to purchase, and the costs of putting things right. If you are the buyer maybe you could lower your offer accordingly, request repairs are carried out first or just walk away from a potential problem.

The older the property the more likely you are to inherit drain problems, particularly if the house was built in the period 1950s – 1970s when pitch fibre pipework was widely installed which starts to reach end-of-life after 40 years or so as it blisters and compresses.

Newer homes are not immune though, so whatever age of property you are considering purchasing, have a CCTV drain survey carried out before hand for peace of mind.

The Types of CCTV Drain Survey We Offer

We offer 2 basic types of CCTV Surveys

1) Look and See CCTV Survey – With this type of survey we will put a camera in your drain pipes and monitor the screen to keep an eye out on any issues we identify along the way. We can highlight any defects or problems we see there and then with you by pausing the progress and showing you the issues on the portable monitor.

 

2) Recorded CCTV Survey – As per the look and see survey but the footage is recorded and sent to you along with a written report of our findings and a site diagram where required.

Call A1 UK Drains today on 0118 973 0999 for more information or a free, no-obligation quote.