Drainage Surveys Explained: What We Look for and Why

A CCTV drainage survey is one of the most effective ways to assess the condition of a drainage system. Using specialist camera equipment, we can inspect drains from the inside, identify existing problems, and highlight potential issues before they develop into costly repairs.

Whether you are experiencing reoccurring blockages, purchasing a property, or simply want to understand the condition of your drainage system, a CCTV survey provides valuable insight into what is happening below ground.

CCTV Unit

Our Main Focus When Starting a CCTV Drain Survey

Before carrying out a detailed inspection, we first ensure that the drainage system is accessible and functioning correctly.

If a drain is blocked, it will usually need to be cleared using high-pressure water jetting before a camera can be introduced into the system. Once access is gained, we assess the overall condition of the drains and look for any signs of:

• Scale build-up on pipe walls

• Grease accumulation restricting flow

• Rodent activity within the drainage network

• Poor flow or drainage performance

• General wear and tear affecting the system

Identifying these issues early can help prevent more serious drainage problems in the future.

Mapping the Drainage System

A key part of a CCTV drainage survey is accurately mapping the drainage layout of the property. This information is particularly useful for homeowners, commercial property owners, and anyone planning future building or renovation works.

During the survey, we:

• Trace the route of the drainage system across the property

• Record the direction of flow within each drainage line

• Locate and identify all manholes and access junctions (AJs)

• Highlight any buried or concealed manholes that may need to be exposed for future maintenance

• Identify which fixtures discharge into each section of the system, such as toilets, kitchen waste, surface water drains, and rainwater connections

Having a clear understanding of the drainage layout makes future maintenance and repairs much easier and more cost-effective.

Identifying Drainage Defects

One of the most important aspects of a CCTV survey is identifying structural defects within the drainage system. These issues can often go unnoticed until they begin causing reoccurring blockages, foul odours, flooding, or property damage.

Some of the most common defects we find include:

• Displaced joints

• Broken or collapsed drains

• Cracks and fractures

• Holes in pipework

• Obstructions restricting flow

• Root ingress from nearby trees and vegetation

• Damaged or poorly channeled manholes

Any of these defects can significantly impact the performance of a drainage system and often lead to reoccurring drainage problems.

Why Early Detection Matters

When drainage defects are left unresolved, they can worsen over time. Many property owners find themselves repeatedly clearing blockages without addressing the underlying cause. While jetting can temporarily restore flow, it will not permanently resolve structural defects such as collapsed pipes, displaced joints, or root ingress.

In some cases, repeatedly jetting a damaged drain can accelerate deterioration and increase repair costs. Identifying problems early through a CCTV survey allows repairs to be carried out before major damage occurs, helping to extend the lifespan of the drainage system and reduce long-term maintenance costs.

Professional Drainage Surveys You Can Trust

A CCTV drainage survey provides a detailed picture of your drainage system's condition, allowing issues to be identified quickly and accurately. From locating hidden manholes and mapping drainage layouts to uncovering structural defects, a professional survey is an invaluable tool for maintaining a healthy and reliable drainage system.

If you are experiencing reoccurring drainage issues or would like peace of mind about the condition of your drains, a CCTV survey can provide the answers you need.

CASE STUDY: CCTV Needed in Domestic Property

The Problem

A homeowner in North Dublin contacted us after experiencing frequent blockages in their foul drainage line. Prior to our visit, the client suspected there may have been a crack in the pipework between their property and the communal drainage network.

Reoccurring blockages can often indicate an underlying structural issue, making a CCTV drain survey the best way to accurately diagnose the problem.

Collapsed Drain

The Solution

We quickly arranged a full CCTV drainage survey to investigate the issue. Upon inspection, our technician discovered that the drainage line had completely collapsed.

As a result, wastewater was unable to flow correctly through the system and was instead seeping into the surrounding ground, creating both a drainage and environmental hazard. The collapsed section of pipe was also the cause of the constant blockages the homeowner had been experiencing.

In situations like this, repeatedly jetting the drain may temporarily relieve a blockage but can sometimes worsen the underlying problem if the pipework has already failed.

Following the survey, the client received:

• A comprehensive CCTV drainage report

• A detailed drainage map showing the layout of the system

• The exact location of the collapsed drain

• CCTV footage from the accessible sections of the drainage line

• A quotation for the necessary repair works

  
  

As the drain had completely collapsed, it was not possible to survey the full length of the line. This is common in cases where severe structural damage is present.

The client was happy to proceed with the recommended repairs. Using the information gathered during the CCTV survey, our Maintenance Doctor team excavated the affected area and exposed the damaged pipework. The collapsed section was removed, the line was cleared of debris, and a new 4-inch drainage pipe was installed.

Once the repair was completed, a new access junction cover and frame were fitted, and the area was fully reinstated and left clean and tidy.

The Result

The drainage system was successfully restored to full working order, eliminating the reoccurring blockages and preventing further damage to the pipework. Following the repair works, the client has experienced no further drainage issues and the system continues to operate as intended.

This case highlights the importance of investigating the underlying cause of reoccurring drainage problems rather than simply treating the symptoms. While clearing a blockage may provide temporary relief, it will not resolve structural issues such as collapsed drains, displaced joints, or root ingress.

Because drainage systems are hidden underground, the true cause of a problem is often impossible to determine without a CCTV inspection. A professional drainage survey provides a clear picture of the condition of the system, allowing defects to be identified quickly and accurately so that the correct repair can be carried out.

If you are experiencing reoccurring blockages, slow-draining fixtures, or ongoing drainage issues, don't wait for the problem to worsen. Contact Drain Doctor today on 1800 946 366 to arrange a CCTV drain survey and let our experienced team diagnose the issue and recommend the most effective solution.