PRICE
TIME ON SITE
REPORT TURNAROUND
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What a CCTV Drain Survey Covers
A specially designed waterproof camera is fed through your property’s accessible underground drainage, transmitting real-time, high-definition footage — no excavation, no disruption. The camera enters through existing access points such as manholes or drain openings.
You get a detailed WRC-compliant report with video footage, still images and a full condition assessment, mapping the accessible drainage network beneath your property and identifying defects, blockages or areas of concern.
When You Need a CCTV Drain Survey
Pre-purchase
A survey before you exchange contracts can reveal hidden drainage defects — evidence to negotiate a lower price or request repairs before completion.
Structural problems
Leaking or collapsed drains can wash soil away beneath your property, leading to subsidence. A camera inspection locates leaks precisely.
Build-over for extensions
If sewers run beneath or within 3m of a proposed extension, your water authority may require a CCTV survey before granting a build-over agreement.
Blockages
Blocked drains usually have an underlying cause — a collapsed section, root ingress or a displaced joint. The survey finds it so it can be fixed permanently.
Insurance or legal disputes
For insurance claims or boundary disputes over drain ownership, the survey provides impartial, documented evidence of condition and exact location.
Not sure if you need one?
Tell us about the property and we’ll advise — no obligation.
BUILDING NEAR A SEWER IN THE NORTH WEST?
United Utilities build-over agreements
A United Utilities build-over agreement is required if you are building, extending or underpinning within 3 metres of a public sewer or lateral drain — even on your own land. This protects the pipe from damage and keeps it accessible for maintenance.
- Location: any building within 3m of the centreline of a public sewer needs approval.
- Prohibitions: never build over a manhole cover or inspection chamber.
- Exceptions: pipes ≤225mm diameter and less than 3m deep may be approved by local building control instead.
When You Need a CCTV Drain Survey
Many drainage issues are invisible from the surface. These are the most common — and, left undetected, the most expensive.
Tree root ingress
Roots force through joints and cracks seeking moisture, causing blockages and eventually breaking pipes apart.
Cracked or fractured pipes
Ground movement, age and heavy traffic crack pipes; even hairline fractures leak into soil and can undermine foundations.
Collapsed drains
One of the most expensive fixes. Surveys detect weakened sections early, allowing relining rather than full replacement.
Blockages and fat build-up
Grease, wipes and debris reduce flow until backups occur. The survey pinpoints location and severity before flooding.
Displaced or open joints
Shifted joints let soil and water into the system — leading to sinkholes, persistent damp and structural damage nearby.
Bellied or sagging pipes
Low points collect waste, causing recurring blockages and odours. The survey pinpoints the exact spot for targeted repair.
Once identified, most issues have a no-dig fix: relining, patch repairs, descaling and jetting, or root cutting. Full excavation is a last resort — and the survey pinpoints exactly where, minimising disruption and cost.
CCTV Drain Survey Cost
A typical residential CCTV drain survey starts from £350, varying with the size of the property and extent of the drainage system. Considering a single drain excavation can cost many thousands of pounds, it’s a very worthwhile investment. Leave your details, include the address and number of bedrooms, and we’ll send you a quote.
How Your Survey Works
Get a quote
Get an instant quote, ask any questions you have and instruct us to do the survey.
Book your survey
Ask any questions you may have, then instruct us to do the survey.
Expert inspection
An experienced drainage surveyor conducts a thorough CCTV drain survey.
Receive report
An easy-to-understand, comprehensive report within a few working days.
Discuss the report
Speak with a drainage surveyor to answer questions and get additional guidance.
CCTV Drain Survey FAQs
How much does a CCTV drain survey cost?
Prices vary depending on the size of the property and the extent of the drainage system, but a typical residential CCTV drain survey starts from £350. Considering a single drain excavation can cost many thousands of pounds, it’s a very worthwhile investment.
Can I add a drain survey to my existing home survey?
Absolutely. A CCTV drain survey can be added alongside your Level 2 or Level 3 Home Survey. We’ll coordinate the visits to make the process as seamless as possible for you.
Do I need a drain survey when buying a house?
While not legally required, a drain survey is strongly recommended — especially for older properties, those with large trees nearby, clay soil, or any home where drainage issues could be lurking unseen. Many conveyancing solicitors and RICS surveyors now advise their clients to have one carried out as standard.
Can I get a drain survey without getting a home survey?
Yes. You can have a CCTV drain survey as a standalone service.
How long does a drain survey take?
A typical residential survey takes between 1 and 2 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the drainage system. You’ll receive your full report within a few working days.
What happens if problems are found?
Your report clearly outlines any defects found, their severity and recommended next steps — the information you need to plan repairs, negotiate on a property purchase, or monitor a minor issue over time.
Do I get copies of the photos and videos?
Your report clearly outlines any defects found, their severity and recommended next steps — the information you need to plan repairs, negotiate on a property purchase, or monitor a minor issue over time.
Can you survey a commercial property?
Yes. We provide bespoke quotes and undertake CCTV drain surveys on commercial property.