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Drainage guide

Signs You Need a CCTV Drain Survey

Learn when recurring blockages, odours, subsidence concerns or a property purchase may justify a CCTV drain inspection.

A CCTV survey is most useful when the cause of a drainage problem cannot be confirmed from the surface or when a temporary clearance does not explain why the fault keeps returning.

Repeated blockages

If the same drain blocks repeatedly, there may be a displaced joint, root ingress, poor fall, scale or damage that traps debris. A camera survey can help show whether the problem is structural.

Property purchase or building work

Underground drainage is usually outside the scope of a standard visual property survey. A targeted CCTV inspection may provide additional information before purchase, extension work or redevelopment.

Odours, damp or unexplained ground movement

Persistent odours, leakage or local ground issues can sometimes be linked to defective drainage. A survey does not replace specialist structural advice, but it can help establish the condition of the relevant pipes.

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Frequently asked questions

When should I contact a drainage professional?

Seek professional advice when a blockage is severe, recurring, affects multiple fixtures, causes sewage back-up or may involve damaged underground pipework.

Can the cause be confirmed without excavation?

Often, yes. Cleaning and CCTV inspection can provide useful information before any excavation is considered.

Does responsibility depend on the location of the drain?

Yes. Private drains, shared sewers and public sewers can have different responsibilities.