What is a CCTV Drainage Survey?   

Since most drains are underground or covered by structures, access to them is quite complicated. This kind of situation will definitely prevent you from identifying the exact cause of a blocked drain and the extent of damage to it if there is any. A CCTV drainage survey is an excellent means to know the precise cause of the problem.

The CCTV device is a small camera attached at the tip of a wire which is then inserted into the drain. With the CCTV device inside the drain, the operator can subsequently maneuver the device and then the images are sent to a screen. This procedure is vital in identifying the root cause of the drainage problem.

Most companies involved in drainage servicing have adopted the latest technologies to further improve their services. They have trained their employees to use the technical know-how in handling any kind of drain-related issues whether it is at the level of industrial or domestic concerns. CCTV technology is now the favored tool in determining drain problems.

Importance of CCTV Drainage Survey to Properties for Sale

Prior to purchasing a property, most buyers require a drain survey of the property for sale; thus making it an integral document of these properties. Buyers know that drains can be a big disturbance when not properly cared for. However, it can be corrected right away if a defect was found to prevent costly repairs afterwards. The price of the property can be as is or can be more if its drain system is without any problem.

As drainage surveys became an important document prior to any property purchase, drainage companies took advantage of this and offer this kind of evaluation as a specialized service. The customer gets a detailed report of the property’s drainage network which is also available in a CD copy. The reports usually include the present condition of the drains as well as preventive measures and repair recommendations if there is any.

Common Causes of Blocked Drains

Most of the problems found by CCTV drainage surveys include collapsed drains, broken pipes and tree roots as the main cause of drain blockages. Collapsed drains and broken pipes are typically caused by forces above the ground. When this happens, water or any fluid flowing inside the drain will leak out and cause a destabilization to the surrounding earth and will lead to the sinking of nearby structures. When this is not attended promptly, it will ultimately cause the drain to collapse completely.

Tree roots, on the other hand, crawl underground to find water and more often are found inside the drains. When the tree roots enter the drain, they will cause subsequent repeated blockages.

The Process of CCTV Drainage Survey

1. The CCTV camera is placed inside the drain through its opening and pushed slowly through the length of the drain
2. The operator will then monitor and record the images inside the drain which is also shown on a screen. Any problem found inside the drain will be monitored and recorded by the operator taking note of the exact locations of the defects
3. The drainage survey report containing the findings is then provided to the client complete with recommendations for fixing the drain

A CCTV drainage survey is a superb way to save money and precious time on any trouble caused by blocked drains. So if you find your home with a blocked drain, utilize the CCTV drainage survey to get off this unpleasant situation promptly.

Get a CCTV drainage survey in London.

Back to DIY articles