What Is a CCTV Drain Survey and Do You Need One? | Bournemouth Drain Experts

If you’re dealing with recurring drainage issues — or buying a property and want peace of mind — a CCTV drain survey could save you a lot of stress (and money).

At 24 Hour Drain Unblocking, we use the latest camera technology to see exactly what’s happening inside your pipes without any digging. This blog explains what a CCTV drain survey is, when you need one, and why it’s vital for Bournemouth homes and businesses.

🎥 What Is a CCTV Drain Survey?

A CCTV drain survey is a non-invasive inspection that uses a high-definition camera fed into your drainage system. The camera sends live video footage to our engineers, allowing us to:

• Pinpoint blockages, cracks, or collapsed sections

• Identify root ingress or debris build-up

• Map the entire layout of your drainage system

💡 Think of it as a health check for your drains — giving you a clear picture of what’s going on underground.

🧱 Why CCTV Drain Surveys Are So Important

Many drainage issues happen out of sight — and by the time you notice symptoms like foul smells or slow drains, the damage could already be severe.

A CCTV survey helps to:

• ✅ Detect problems early before they become expensive

• ✅ Locate collapsed or damaged pipes quickly

• ✅ Save money on unnecessary excavation

• ✅ Provide detailed reports for insurance or property purchases

🏡 When Should You Book a CCTV Drain Survey?

CCTV drain surveys are essential for:

1. Home Buyers – A pre-purchase survey identifies hidden issues before completion, avoiding nasty surprises later.

2. Repeat Blockages – If your drains keep blocking, a survey finds the real cause.

3. After Repairs or Installation – To confirm work has been done correctly.

4. Commercial Properties – Regular inspections prevent costly downtime.

🌳 Common Problems Found During Surveys

In Bournemouth and surrounding areas like Highcliffe, Poole, and Wimborne, we often discover:

• Tree root ingress from gardens

• Cracked or displaced joints in older clay pipes

• Fat, grease, and scale build-up

• Collapsed or deformed pitch-fibre pipes

Once the footage is analysed, our engineers provide a comprehensive report and video recording, along with recommendations for repairs if needed.

⚙️ How Long Does a Drain Survey Take?

Most domestic CCTV drain surveys take 1–2 hours depending on property size and access. Larger commercial systems may take longer. Results and footage are usually available within 24 hours.

💰 Are CCTV Drain Surveys Worth It?

Absolutely. While prices vary depending on your system, a drain survey often costs less than repairing a collapsed drain — and gives you valuable peace of mind.

For homeowners, landlords, and businesses in Bournemouth, Christchurch, Mudeford, and Poole, a professional CCTV inspection is one of the smartest ways to protect your property.

✅ Final Word

Whether you’re buying a home or struggling with blocked drains, a CCTV drain survey provides clarity, confidence, and cost-effective prevention.

At 24 Hour Drain Unblocking, our engineers use advanced camera equipment to locate and diagnose issues quickly — saving you time, money, and disruption.