Understanding Drain CCTV Surveys: What to Expect

CCTV drain surveys are an essential diagnostic tool in modern drainage maintenance, allowing for accurate assessment of underground drainage systems without the need for disruptive excavation. This blog post explains what CCTV drain surveys involve, when they're necessary, and what to expect if you book one for your property.

What is a CCTV Drain Survey?

A CCTV drain survey involves using specialized waterproof cameras attached to flexible rods to inspect the inside of drainage pipes. The camera provides a live video feed to a monitoring unit, allowing drainage engineers to see exactly what's happening inside your pipes, including any damage, blockages, or other issues that might not be detectable from the surface.

When is a CCTV Drain Survey Necessary?

There are several situations where a CCTV drain survey might be recommended:

• Recurring drain blockages: If your property experiences repeated drainage issues, a CCTV survey can identify the root cause, whether it's tree root intrusion, pipe damage, or scale buildup.
• Pre-purchase property surveys: When buying a property, a CCTV drain survey can reveal hidden issues with the drainage system that might become expensive problems later.
• Subsidence concerns: Drainage problems can sometimes contribute to property subsidence, and a CCTV survey can identify if leaking drains are affecting the ground beneath your property.
• Rat infestations: Rodents often enter properties through damaged drainage pipes. A CCTV survey can identify entry points that need to be sealed.

The CCTV Survey Process

Here's what to expect when a professional drainage company conducts a CCTV survey at your property:

1. Initial assessment: The drainage engineer will locate your drainage access points and discuss any specific issues you've been experiencing.
2. Camera insertion: The specialist camera equipment is inserted into the drainage system through an access point such as a manhole or drain opening.
3. Inspection: The camera moves through the pipes, transmitting real-time footage to a monitor, where the engineer can identify any issues.
4. Recording: The entire survey is recorded, providing visual evidence of the condition of your drains.
5. Report and recommendations: After the survey, you'll receive a detailed report of the findings, including any identified issues and recommended solutions.

Benefits of CCTV Drain Surveys

CCTV surveys offer several advantages over traditional drain inspection methods:

• Non-destructive inspection without the need for excavation
• Accurate diagnosis of drainage problems
• Visual evidence of drain conditions
• Precise location mapping of underground drainage systems
• Cost-effective compared to exploratory excavation

At Dylex Environmental, our CCTV drain survey service provides comprehensive inspection of your drainage system, with detailed reports and recommendations. Whether you're experiencing recurring blockages, planning property renovations, or want to ensure your drainage system is in good condition, a CCTV survey provides the insights you need to make informed decisions about maintenance and repairs.