When Should You Get a Drain Survey? 6 Good Reasons

Most people only think about their drains when something goes wrong. But there are times when a drain survey is worth doing before you have a problem, and times when it’s the only way to find out what’s really going on. This guide is mainly for homeowners in Cheadle and the rest of the Stockport area, although we survey commercial drains too.

1. Your drains smell

Smells are the most common reason people ask us for a drain survey. Very often the cause is simply a blockage, and a straightforward unblock sorts it out. That’s why we usually clear the drain first. Where it’s needed, we then put a camera down to check the pipe is in good shape, and this is included with the unblock.

2. The same drain keeps blocking

If a drain blocks, gets cleared and blocks again a few weeks later, there is usually a reason. It could be roots, a displaced joint, a crack, a sag in the pipe or scale build-up. A CCTV drain survey shows the cause, so you fix the problem once instead of paying for repeat unblocks.

3. You’re planning a new driveway, patio, decking or extension

This is one of the most important times to check. If your drains run under the area you’re about to cover, get them looked at first. Spending thousands on a new drive only to have it dug up a year later to repair a pipe underneath is heartbreaking. We’ve written more about checking drains before a new driveway.

4. You’re buying a house

A standard homebuyer survey usually doesn’t include a camera inspection of the underground drains. Once you complete, any problems with the private drains are yours to sort out. A good rule of thumb: if the house has clay drainage pipes, get them surveyed before you buy.

5. You’ve noticed subsidence or dips in the ground

Subsidence is one of the words homeowners least want to hear. Cracks in walls, sinking paving or dips in the lawn can be linked to a leaking or broken drain washing the ground away. If you see these signs, get a survey as soon as you can.

6. There are large trees near your drains

Older clay pipes with rigid joints are easy targets for roots. If you have mature trees close to the drain run and you’ve had slow drainage or blockages, a camera survey will show whether roots have got in.

What does a drain survey cost?

• CCTV report after an unblock: £80 + VAT, if we’ve just cleared your drain and further investigation is recommended
• CCTV drain survey: priced from a starting price that depends on the size of the property, confirmed before we book you in
• Drain tracing: from £250 + VAT, including mapping

Larger properties and commercial sites are quoted separately. If you need to know where a pipe runs, for example before building work, we can also carry out drain tracing.

Not sure if you need one?

There are plenty more reasons to have your drains checked. If you’re in any doubt, just ask. We’re based in Cheadle and cover Heald Green, Gatley and the rest of the area. Call 07375 521027 or WhatsApp us and we’ll tell you honestly whether a survey is worth it.