Camera being used to inspect a household drain

What Is a CCTV Drain Survey?

A CCTV drain survey uses specialist camera technology to inspect drains, pipes and sewers without digging. It helps identify the exact cause of blocked drains, recurring blockages and other problems with minimal disruption.

The inspection can diagnose cracks, damaged pipes, root ingress, debris, grease and fat build-up before they turn into more significant issues.

The findings help explain whether drain unblocking, cleaning, high-pressure water jetting, drain repairs or sewer repairs are needed.

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Accurate Drainage Investigation

When several fixtures are slow, water backs up, or a blockage keeps returning, the cause may sit deeper in the system.

This clear view helps decide whether unblocking, jetting, maintenance or repair work is needed without unnecessary excavation.

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What a Drain Survey Can Reveal

The camera can diagnose blockage points, cracks and structural damage throughout the drainage system.

Recurring Blockages

Locate the point where waste or debris is repeatedly collecting.

Structural Damage

Identify cracks, displaced joints and collapsed sections affecting the pipe.

Root Ingress

See where roots have entered existing gaps and restricted water flow.

Clear Findings

Record the condition of the system and the work that may be required.

Survey Equipment and Reporting

A suitable access point is used to guide the camera through bends, junctions and constricted sections. Push rods, crawler units and recording equipment may be used depending on the size and condition of the drainage system.

The camera supplies live footage so the location and nature of faults can be recorded. A report can include findings, photographs and recommendations.

Surveys are also useful before repairs, maintenance, sewer connections, construction work or buying a property.

CCTV drain survey report and camera equipment

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Clear advice, appropriate equipment and a no-obligation quotation before work begins.

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How a CCTV Drain Survey Works

The drain is accessed, inspected in real time and recorded so the findings can be clearly reported.

01

Access

Choose a safe access point and assess the condition of the drainage system.

02

Inspect

Guide the camera through the pipework while viewing the system in real time.

03

Record

Capture the location and nature of blockages, damage and other defects.

04

Report

Explain the findings and recommend clearance, repair or maintenance where needed.

CCTV Drain Survey FAQs

Find out more about the inspection, equipment, report and problems a survey can detect.

What is a CCTV drain survey?

A specialist camera is guided through underground drains, pipes and sewers to provide a clear view of the drainage system without unnecessary excavation.

Why would I need a CCTV drain survey?

A survey can locate recurring blockages, damage or unexplained slow drainage, and it can also check a system before repairs, maintenance or a property purchase.

How does a CCTV drain survey work?

The camera enters through a suitable access point and sends live footage to the engineer, who records the location and nature of defects or obstructions.

What problems can a survey detect?

It can reveal cracks, displaced joints, collapsed sections, root ingress, grease, fat, debris and other faults affecting flow.

How much does a CCTV drain survey cost?

The price depends on the size of the system, access, the number of drains and the complexity of the problem. A quotation can be provided for the required inspection.

Can a survey help prevent future issues?

Yes. Finding deterioration or build-up early allows maintenance or repair work to be planned before it becomes a larger problem.

Is a survey useful before buying a property?

Yes. It can identify hidden drainage defects and give a buyer clearer information before committing to the purchase.

How long does a CCTV drain survey take?

Many domestic surveys can be completed within one or two hours, although larger or more complex systems may take longer.

What equipment is used?

Depending on the job, equipment can include push-rod cameras, crawler units, lighting, distance measurement and recording software.

Will I receive a report?

Yes. The report can include findings, photographs and recommendations for cleaning, jetting, repair or maintenance where needed.

Need a Clear View of Your Drains?

Arrange a CCTV drain survey for practical findings and clear next steps.