How much does a CCTV drain survey cost in Bristol?

The cost of a CCTV drain survey depends on the length of the drainage run and the number of access points involved. A standard domestic survey covering the main sewer run is typically a fixed price. Larger properties or commercial premises with extensive drainage networks may cost more. Your engineer will confirm the price before starting.

Do I need a CCTV drain survey before buying a house?

It is not a legal requirement, but it is a wise investment, especially for older properties. A standard house survey does not inspect underground drainage. Problems like cracked pipes, root intrusion, and collapsed sections are common in properties over 30 years old and can cost several thousand pounds to repair. A pre-purchase survey gives you negotiating power or the option to walk away.

CCTV Drain Survey in Bristol

When a drain keeps blocking, smells persist despite cleaning, or you are buying a property and want to check the drainage before committing, a CCTV drain survey gives you a clear picture of what is happening underground. OnCall Home Repairs connects you with drain engineers in Bristol who use professional camera equipment to inspect your drainage system from the inside — without digging up your garden.

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When and Why You Need a CCTV Drain Survey

A CCTV drain survey involves feeding a waterproof camera on a flexible cable through your drainage system. The live footage is recorded and allows the engineer to see cracks, tree root intrusions, displaced joints, build-up of debris, and any structural issues affecting your drains. It removes the guesswork from drainage problems entirely.

Homebuyers in Bristol increasingly request drain surveys as part of their pre-purchase checks. Older properties in the town centre, around the town centre, and in the established estates off Leeds Road often have clay drainage pipes that deteriorate over decades. A survey can reveal problems that a standard house survey would miss, potentially saving you thousands in repair costs after moving in.

For existing homeowners, a CCTV survey is the recommended next step when drain unblocking does not resolve a recurring problem, or when you notice subsidence near a drain run. The footage also provides evidence for insurance claims and disputes with shared drainage responsibility between neighbours.

How a CCTV Drain Survey Works

Access and Preparation

The engineer locates the nearest manhole cover or access point and feeds the camera head into the drainage system. If the drain is partially blocked, a preliminary clearing may be carried out first to allow the camera a clear view of the pipe walls.

Camera Inspection

The camera is guided through the full length of the drainage run, recording high-definition footage as it moves. The engineer watches the live feed on a monitor, noting the location and nature of any defects, blockages, root intrusions, or collapsed sections.

Report and Recommendations

You receive a written report summarising the findings, accompanied by the recorded footage. The report details the condition of each section of pipe, highlights any faults, and recommends the most appropriate repair method for each issue identified.

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CCTV Drain Surveys Across Bristol

Our drain engineers carry out CCTV surveys across Bristol, Clifton, Redland, Bishopston, Horfield, Stoke Bishop, Knowle, and all surrounding areas. Pre-purchase drain surveys are available at short notice to fit conveyancing timelines. If you need a survey urgently due to a recurring blockage or suspected collapse, let us know when you call.

BristolCliftonRedlandBishopstonSouthvilleBedminsterEastonHenleazeWestbury-on-TrymHorfieldFishpondsStoke BishopKnowleBrislingtonKeynshamSt Andrews

Frequently Asked Questions

Need to See Inside Your Drains?

Stop guessing and get a clear diagnosis. Call OnCall Home Repairs and we will connect you with a drain engineer in Bristol who can carry out a CCTV survey and give you a full picture of your drainage system.

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