CCTV drain surveys · Colchester, Essex & Suffolk

CCTV Drain Surveys

A CCTV drain survey gives you a clear picture of what is happening inside your drainage system. Draincore carries out professional drain surveys for domestic and commercial customers across Essex and Suffolk.

What is a CCTV drain survey?

A CCTV drain survey uses a specialist camera on a flexible rod to inspect the inside of drainage pipes. The camera transmits live footage so our engineer can see exactly what is happening inside the pipe — blockages, cracks, root ingress, collapsed sections or other defects.

The survey is non-invasive and does not require excavation. It is the most reliable way to diagnose drainage problems accurately before deciding on the right course of action.

Signs you may need a drain survey

  • Blockages that return within weeks of being cleared
  • Persistent bad smells from drains or the garden
  • Wet patches or sinkholes appearing in the garden
  • Cracks in walls or floors near drainage runs
  • You are buying a property and want to check the drains

When is a CCTV survey needed?

Recurring blockages that keep returning after clearing
Slow drainage with no obvious cause
Suspected root ingress from trees or shrubs
Before buying a property — to check the condition of the drains
After a blockage has been cleared — to confirm the pipe is clear and undamaged
Subsidence or ground movement near drainage runs
Planning an extension or building work near existing drains

How Draincore carries out a CCTV survey

Our engineer will access the drain through an inspection chamber or drain opening and feed the camera through the pipework. The live footage is recorded and reviewed on-site.

After the survey, we'll explain what we found and what — if anything — needs to be done. If a repair or further cleaning is required, we'll give you a clear quote before any work begins.

Accurate diagnosis

See exactly what is happening inside your drains — no guesswork, no unnecessary excavation.

Pre-purchase surveys

Buying a property? A drain survey can identify problems before you complete, potentially saving significant costs.

Clear report

We explain what we found in plain language and give you a clear recommendation on next steps.

★★★★★
"Had a major blockage at my house which was causing sewage to leak from my bathrooms and toilets upstairs. I have children at home and it was truly a stressful time for us financially and the price was lower than expected! They got to my house within the hour and dealt with everything! Would fully recommend and will 100% be back if needed. Thank you again, Rachel."

— Rachel, Google review

CCTV drain surveys — frequently asked questions

Do I need to dig up my garden for a CCTV survey?

No. A CCTV survey is non-invasive. The camera is fed through an existing access point such as an inspection chamber or drain opening. Excavation is only needed if a repair is required.

How long does a CCTV drain survey take?

Most residential surveys take between 30 minutes and an hour depending on the length and complexity of the drainage system.

Should I get a drain survey when buying a house?

It is strongly recommended. Drainage problems are not always visible during a standard property survey. A CCTV drain survey can identify issues before you complete the purchase.

What happens if the survey finds a problem?

We'll explain what we found and give you a clear quote for any repair or further work. You are under no obligation to proceed with us.

How much does a CCTV drain survey cost?

Call us on 01206 671619 for a quote. Pricing depends on the size of the property and the drainage system.

Need a drain survey? Call Draincore

Covering Colchester, Essex and Suffolk