When drainage issues arise, they can cause significant disruption to your home or business. From slow-draining sinks to persistent blockages or even structural damage underground, it can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause without professional tools. That’s where CCTV drain inspections come in. These inspections use advanced camera technology to look directly inside your drainage system, providing a detailed drainage survey report that highlights the condition of your drains and any problems that need attention.
In this blog, we’ll break down what a drainage survey report includes, why CCTV drain inspections are so valuable, and how the findings can help you maintain healthy, long-lasting pipework.
What is a CCTV Drain Survey Report?
A drainage survey report is the detailed document produced after a professional carries out CCTV drain inspections. Small, high-resolution cameras are inserted into your drains, capturing clear footage of the internal condition. This footage is then analysed, and a drainage report is prepared to explain what’s happening underground.
The report is more than just a list of issues. It often contains video evidence, images, diagrams, and expert recommendations. Whether you are buying a property, dealing with repeat drainage problems, or need evidence for insurance claims, a CCTV drain survey report is a reliable way to get the full picture.
Why Do You Need CCTV Drain Inspections?
CCTV drain inspections are becoming the go-to solution for homeowners, landlords, and businesses. Here’s why:
- Accuracy – Instead of guessing where a problem lies, the camera provides real-time visuals.
- Cost-effectiveness – By identifying the exact issue, you avoid unnecessary excavation or repairs.
- Preventive maintenance – A drainage survey report highlights potential problems before they become serious.
- Property transactions – Buyers often request a drainage report to ensure there are no hidden issues with the property’s drains.
- Insurance support – Insurers may require proof of drain damage, and a CCTV drain survey report provides this evidence.
What’s Included in a Drainage Survey Report?
A professional drainage survey report is thorough, covering all aspects of your system’s condition. Typically, it includes:
1. General Information
The first part of the drainage report provides details such as:
- Property address and survey date
- Details of the surveyor or drainage company
- Type of survey conducted (pre-purchase survey, fault-finding, insurance survey, etc.)
- The sections of drainage inspected
This acts as the foundation, making the report easy to reference for future works.
2. Drain Condition Assessment
One of the most valuable parts of CCTV drain inspections is the condition assessment. The drainage report will outline:
- The structural integrity of the pipes
- The presence of cracks, fractures, or joint displacement
- Evidence of root intrusion from nearby trees
- Scale build-up or fat deposits restricting flow
This section helps determine whether your drains are functioning correctly or if immediate repairs are required.
3. Blockages and Obstructions
If your drains are slow or backing up, the CCTV drain survey report will pinpoint the cause. Common obstructions include:
- Foreign objects lodged in the pipes
- Grease and fat deposits
- Broken pipework collapsing inwards
- Misaligned joints catching debris
By locating the precise problem, engineers can recommend targeted solutions, such as jetting or pipe relining.
4. Mapping and Layout of the Drainage System
For larger properties or older buildings where drainage layouts aren’t clearly documented, CCTV drain inspections provide a detailed map of the system. The drainage survey report often includes:
- Diagrams showing the direction and depth of pipes
- Location of inspection chambers, gullies, and connections
- Accessibility notes for future maintenance
This is particularly useful for construction projects or property purchases.
5. Still Images and Video Evidence
Modern drainage survey reports come with still images captured during the inspection and often a copy of the recorded video. These visuals support the findings, making it easy for homeowners, insurers, or contractors to understand the exact issue without guesswork.
6. Recommendations and Next Steps
At the end of the drainage report, you’ll find professional advice tailored to your property’s condition. This might include:
- No further action required if your drains are in good health
- Immediate drain blockages clearance
- Relining or repairing cracked pipes
- Replacement of collapsed sections
- Regular maintenance suggestions to avoid future issues
These recommendations are based on clear evidence gathered during the CCTV drain inspections, ensuring you get accurate, actionable guidance.
When Should You Get a Drainage Survey Report?
There are several situations where a CCTV drain survey report is especially useful:
- Buying a property – Avoid expensive surprises by checking the condition of drains before you commit.
- Persistent drainage issues – If blockages keep returning, the survey identifies the root cause.
- Insurance claims – A drainage report provides essential proof for drain-related claims.
- Construction or renovation work – Ensure your drains can handle increased usage or alterations.
Peace of mind – Routine CCTV drain inspections prevent small problems from escalating.
Benefits of a CCTV Drain Survey Report
- Clarity – No hidden issues, just clear evidence.
- Transparency – You know exactly what’s wrong and what needs fixing.
- Cost savings – Targeted repairs mean you spend money only where necessary.
- Future planning – With a mapped-out drainage report, you can prepare for expansions or renovations confidently.
Final Thoughts
A CCTV drain survey report is an essential tool for anyone dealing with drainage systems. From diagnosing recurring problems to offering peace of mind during property purchases, these reports combine advanced camera technology with expert analysis to give you the most accurate picture possible.
When you invest in CCTV drain inspections, you’re not just solving immediate problems—you’re protecting your property for the long term. Whether you need a basic drainage report for reassurance or a detailed survey for insurance or construction, the insights provided will help you make the right decisions quickly and confidently.
Contact MR Drains for Expert CCTV Drain Surveys
