If you’ve ever had persistent blockages, foul smells, or slow drainage, and traditional drain-clearing didn’t fix it, you know how frustrating and disruptive it can be. Invisible cracks, root ingress or collapsed pipes can lurk underground for years before finally causing a major problem.
That’s where a CCTV drain survey can make all the difference. It reveals what’s really going on beneath the surface and helps avoid expensive, disruptive excavations.
If you’d like to book a survey or discuss drainage concerns, call us on 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk.
Our experts at SE Drainage, our CCTV drain survey brings what’s hidden underground into view, giving you clarity, confidence and peace of mind.
What Exactly Is A CCTV Drain Survey?
A CCTV drain survey is a non-invasive inspection technique that uses advanced waterproof cameras to inspect the interior of drains, sewers, and underground pipework. Instead of digging up your garden or yard, we insert a small, high-resolution camera into existing access points (such as manholes or inspection chambers) and carefully navigate it through your drainage system. Our engineers record continuous footage and inspect every bend, joint and junction.
This approach helps us identify structural problems such as cracks, displaced joints, root ingress, blockages, limescale or corrosion quickly, safely and without unnecessary disruption. It’s far more precise and reliable than traditional “trial and error” methods.
How Does The Inspection Process Work?
Here’s a step-by-step of our typical CCTV drain survey process:
- Access and preparation — We find a suitable access point: a manhole, inspection chamber or clean-out. Where needed, we pre-clean the drains to clear debris or blockages so the camera can pass smoothly.
- Camera insertion — Using a push-rod or crawler unit (depending on pipe size), we gently feed the waterproof camera into the drain. Powerful LED lighting ensures visibility even in dark or murky conditions.
- Live inspection & video recording — Engineers monitor the live video feed on-site. We record the footage, take still images, and note any defects, including their exact position and severity.
- Drain mapping & condition assessment — We map the drainage layout (pipe routes, connections, chambers), measure pipe dimensions, and assess structural integrity. This is especially useful for older properties or for those with outdated or missing plans.
- Reporting & recommendations — At the end of the survey, you receive a detailed report with images and/or video, defect codes, identified issues, and clear recommendations (cleaning, repairs, relining, maintenance).
Why Choose A CCTV Drain Survey — Key Benefits
1. Accurate Diagnosis Without Guesswork
Because we see precisely what’s going on inside your drains, there’s no need for guesswork. Whether it’s root ingress, joint displacement, hairline cracks or blockages, we get a clear, precise picture enabling targeted, cost-effective repairs.
2. Non-Destructive And Minimally Disruptive
Traditional investigations often meant digging up driveways, gardens, or paved areas, which were messy, time-consuming, and costly. With CCTV, there’s usually no digging required unless repairs are needed. Your landscaping stays intact.
3. Cost And Time-Efficient
Since we pinpoint the exact issue and location, repair work is more efficient and avoids unnecessary excavations. That means less time, less disruption and often lower cost compared with old-school methods.
4. Essential For Pre-Purchase Surveys, Insurance & Compliance
If you’re buying an older property, renovating, or submitting a building-regulation application, a CCTV drain survey gives you a clear picture of the drainage condition, potentially avoiding nasty surprises later. It also provides documentation often required by insurers, water authorities or lenders.
5. Long-Term Maintenance & PeaceOfMind
Regular CCTV inspections help catch minor issues before they escalate, saving you from future emergencies, structural damage or costly repairs. This makes it a worthwhile investment for both homeowners and commercial properties.
What Can CCTV Drain Surveys Detect?
During our inspections at SE Drainage, some of the most common issues we discover include:
- Blockages — grease, silt, debris, foreign objects or accumulated waste
- Root ingress — tree or plant roots penetrating pipe joints or cracks
- Cracks, fractures, collapsed pipes — structural damage that can cause leaks or collapses
- Joint displacement or misalignment — often caused by root pressure, ground movement or subsidence
- Limescale or sediment buildup — reducing flow and increasing risk of blockage
- Poor pipe gradients/flow issues — incorrect installation or shifting ground may cause water pooling or slow drainage
With a CCTV drain survey, your drainage system is no longer a mystery. You get clear, actionable evidence.
When Should You Consider A CCTV Drain Survey?
A CCTV drain survey is worth considering if you’re experiencing any of the following:
- Recurrent blockages or slow drainage despite repeated clearing
- Persistent foul odours, gurgling noises, or damp/flooding symptoms
- Purchasing an older property, pre-purchase due diligence is required before buying
- Planning renovations, extensions or connections to existing drainage
- Making an insurance or subsidence claim, or needing documented proof of the drain condition
- Regular maintenance of older or frequently used drainage systems (especially in commercial properties)
Why SE Drainage Is Ideal For Your CCTV Drain Survey
At SE Drainage, we combine over 15 years of industry experience with advanced CCTV technology to provide detailed, reliable drainage diagnostics.
- We follow accepted standards and guidelines to ensure reliable, professional reporting.
- Our detailed survey reports include video footage, images, annotated drain maps, condition grading and recommendations, all helping you make informed decisions.
- We offer tailored solutions, whether you require simple cleaning, drain relining, repairs, or a full maintenance plan.
- We respond promptly and aim to deliver a seamless service with minimal disruption.
If you want to learn more or arrange a CCTV drain survey, call 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk today. We’ll take care of the rest.
Conclusion
A CCTV drain survey is the smartest, most effective way to see what’s really going on beneath your property without disruptive digging, guesswork or wasted effort.
At SE Drainage, our expert engineers leverage modern CCTV inspection technology to deliver precise, reliable assessments and clear recommendations.
Whether you’re battling recurring blockages, preparing a property purchase, or looking for long-term drain maintenance, a CCTV survey offers clarity, confidence and protection for your investment.
Don’t wait until an unseen problem becomes a costly emergency call 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk to book your CCTV drain survey today.
