When it comes to maintaining a property, many homeowners overlook the importance of properly
managing and inspecting the drainage system. However, a blocked or faulty drain can cause many
problems, from unpleasant odours to structural damage. That’s where professional CCTV drain
surveys come in, offering homeowners a precise and efficient way to assess and monitor the health of
their drainage systems. At Totally Blocked Drainage Solutions, we specialise in providing high-
In this blog, we’ll explore the many benefits of professional CCTV drain surveys, how they work,
when to consider one, and how our expert services can support you in maintaining your property’s
drainage system. Let’s explore why a CCTV drain survey is an essential tool for homeowners.
What is a CCTV drain survey?
A CCTV drain survey is an advanced, non-invasive method used to inspect the condition of drains and
sewers. Specially designed cameras are inserted into the drainage system to capture real-time
footage of any issues within the pipes. This high-tech process allows engineers to assess the
condition of your drainage system, identify potential problems, and recommend solutions – all
without the need for costly or disruptive digging.
CCTV drain surveys are incredibly efficient because they provide immediate insight into the health of
your drainage system, and thanks to the video footage, the engineers can analyse specific areas of
concern. The footage is recorded and stored, which allows homeowners to review the findings and
make informed decisions about repairs or improvements. Whether you’re facing recurring drainage
problems or simply looking for preventive maintenance, a CCTV survey offers a clear, precise
diagnosis of the condition of your drains.
What does a CCTV drain survey include?
- Real-time Video Footage
The main component of the survey is the camera itself. It is fed down the drain, capturing
live footage of the pipe’s interior. This footage is displayed on a screen that engineers use to
analyse the condition of the system. The real-time nature of the footage allows the engineers
to provide immediate feedback.
- Detailed Report
After conducting the survey, our team provides you with a comprehensive report detailing
the findings. This report often includes images or video footage of any issues, such as
blockages, cracks, tree root intrusion, or misaligned pipes. This visual documentation is
invaluable for both repairs and future reference.
- Recommendations for Action
Based on the findings, the engineers will give you clear guidance on the next steps, which
could include cleaning, repairs, or further investigations if necessary. This takes the
guesswork out of the equation, giving you a roadmap for resolving any issues.
When do I need a CCTV drain survey?
∙General Drain Inspection
If you notice slow drainage, unpleasant smells, or regular blockages, a CCTV drain survey can
help identify the cause. The footage from the camera will help detect any underlying issues
before they turn into costly repairs. Problems such as pipe misalignments, leaks, or
intrusions by tree roots may be invisible to the naked eye but can cause significant damage
over time.
∙Homebuyer Drain Surveys
Before purchasing a new property, conducting a CCTV drain survey can help uncover
potential drainage issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. A survey provides peace of
mind by ensuring that there are no hidden problems, such as collapsed pipes or tree root
intrusion. This is particularly important when purchasing older properties where drainage
systems may have deteriorated over time.
∙Pre-Purchase Drain Inspections
In some cases, banks or mortgage lenders require a drain survey to assess the condition of
the drains before granting a loan for a property purchase. They want to ensure there are no
hidden issues that could be costly to repair and would affect the property’s value.
∙Home Extensions
If you are planning a home extension, it’s essential to ensure that the existing drainage
system can handle the added load. A CCTV drain survey will help assess the condition of the
pipes and identify any necessary repairs before construction begins. It also provides insights
into the drainage layout, so you can plan your extension accordingly.
∙Sewer Surveys & Manhole Inspections
In some cases, you may need to inspect the main sewer line or manholes on your property.
CCTV surveys are perfect for this, as they allow for quick and accurate identification of issues
without the need for invasive methods. These inspections are often part of preventative
maintenance to avoid future blockages and backups.
∙Damp or Water Damage Concerns
If you’re noticing signs of water damage, damp patches on walls, or mould growth, a CCTV
survey could uncover hidden leaks or blockages within your drainage system, such as a
cracked pipe, which may be contributing to these issues.
The Benefits of Professional CCTV Drain Surveys for Homeowners
Early Detection of Problems
One of the main benefits of a CCTV drain survey is its ability to identify issues early. Small problems
like cracks, blockages, or tree root intrusion can be detected before they escalate into larger, more
expensive issues. Catching these problems early can save homeowners significant amounts of money
in repairs and prevent any disruption to daily life. For example, small leaks or cracks can lead to water
damage that compromises the structural integrity of your property if left unchecked.
Non-Invasive Inspection
the drains. CCTV drain surveys eliminate this need, as the camera can be inserted through existing
access points, such as manholes, gully pots, or inspection chambers. This non-invasive method
means there’s no mess, no damage, and no disruption to your property. It’s a more efficient and less
disruptive way to inspect your drainage system, keeping your landscaping and property intact.
Accurate Diagnosis & Detailed Reporting
The real-time footage provided by the CCTV camera gives an accurate representation of the
condition of your drains. Engineers can pinpoint exactly where the problem lies, whether it’s a simple
blockage, damaged pipe, or more complex issues like tree root intrusion. The footage is recorded,
and a detailed report is generated, complete with images or video clips showing the specific areas of
concern. This detailed documentation is incredibly useful for homeowners who want a clear
understanding of their drainage system’s condition.
Peace of Mind for Homebuyers
If you’re purchasing a new home, a CCTV drain survey can provide essential peace of mind. A survey
can reveal potential problems that would otherwise go unnoticed, such as deteriorating pipes or
hidden blockages. It’s a small investment that can save you from significant unforeseen repair costs
down the road. By understanding the condition of the drainage system before making a purchase,
you’ll be better equipped to negotiate the terms of the sale and factor in any future repairs or
upgrades.
Helps Prevent Expensive Drain Repairs
By identifying problems early, CCTV drain surveys can prevent the need for expensive drain repairs.
Instead of waiting for an issue to cause significant damage, a survey can pinpoint potential problems
that can be fixed before they worsen. For example, what starts as a small blockage could, over time,
develop into a collapsed pipe or a severe flooding issue. By identifying problems early, you can avoid
more expensive repairs, reduce the risk of extensive property damage, and extend the life of your
drainage system.
Identifies Drainage System Capacity
If you’re planning an extension or renovation, a CCTV drain survey is crucial for assessing whether
your existing drainage system is capable of handling the increased load. The survey will help you
assess the structural integrity of the drains under the proposed extension, identify potential
problems like blocked or collapsed pipes, and ensure there is no strain placed on the system. The
survey also helps identify any modifications needed to accommodate your extension’s drainage
needs.
Trace the Source of Foul Smells or Damp
Sometimes, a persistent damp issue or foul odour in your home can be traced back to a leaking pipe
or blocked drain. A CCTV survey allows us to identify the exact source of the problem, so it can be
leak in your sewage pipe, the water can seep into the foundation of your property, causing damp
patches, mould, and even structural damage over time.
Quick & Efficient
A CCTV drain survey is fast and efficient. What would traditionally take hours of digging or manual
inspection can now be done in a fraction of the time, with immediate results. This means fewer
disruptions to your daily routine and quicker solutions to your drainage issues. Once the survey is
completed, the engineer can provide you with feedback and a report on the spot, helping you make
informed decisions quickly.
How can we help?
At Totally Blocked Drainage Solutions, we provide professional CCTV drain survey services to
homeowners across Chichester, West Sussex, Hampshire and Greater London. Our team of highly
skilled engineers uses the latest technology to conduct comprehensive drain inspections, delivering
accurate results quickly. We understand the importance of having a well-functioning drainage
system, and our services are designed to give homeowners peace of mind.
Our professional team is always here to help you ensure the health of your drainage system. For
provide expert advice and personalised service to meet your specific needs.
Protect Your Home with a CCTV Drain Survey
Drainage problems can be costly, stressful and disruptive, but they don’t have to be. With a
professional CCTV drain survey from Totally Blocked Drainage Solutions, you can catch problems
early, prevent damage, and ensure your drainage system is in top condition. Whether you’re buying a
new home, planning an extension, or just looking to maintain your property, our CCTV drain surveys
offer peace of mind and long-term savings.
For a reliable, fast, and non-invasive drain inspection, contact Totally Blocked Drainage Solutions today. Our expert team is ready to provide you with a comprehensive survey and actionable
solutions for any drainage issues.
FAQs
How much does a CCTV drain survey cost?
The cost of a CCTV drain survey can vary depending on the complexity of the survey, the location,
How long does a CCTV drain survey take?
A typical survey can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the length of
the drainage system being inspected.
Will the survey cause any disruption to my property?
No, a CCTV drain survey is non-invasive, so there’s no digging or damage to your property.
Can I request a survey if I’m not experiencing any drainage problems?
Yes, preventive drain surveys are a great way to ensure there are no hidden issues in your system.
How do I know if I need a CCTV drain survey?
If you’re experiencing slow drainage, foul smells, or recurring blockages, a CCTV drain survey can help
identify the cause.
Can a CCTV drain survey help with a blocked drain?
Yes, a CCTV survey can pinpoint the exact location and cause of a blockage, allowing for a quick and
efficient solution.
Is a CCTV drain survey necessary for a homebuyer?
It is highly recommended to survey to check the condition of the drains before purchasing a
property.
How do you access the drain during a CCTV survey?
We use existing access points like manholes or drain inspection chambers to insert the camera.
Can a CCTV drain survey detect tree root intrusion?
Yes, tree roots are a common cause of drain damage, and CCTV surveys are effective in detecting
them.
How quickly can I get the results from a CCTV drain survey?
You’ll receive a comprehensive report shortly after the survey is completed, often the same day.
If you’re ready to ensure the health and efficiency of your home’s drainage system,
help you with all your drainage needs.