Drain Survey vs CCTV Drain Survey

The term “drain survey” is used loosely in the UK. Sometimes it means a simple CCTV camera run to identify a blockage; in other cases it refers to a full drainage investigation that maps pipe routes, depths and capacities for design. Understanding the difference helps you order the right level of service.

What to Look For

• You received quotes that vary widely for what is described as a ‘drain survey’
• One contractor refers to a quick CCTV check, another to full mapping and reports
• Your architect or engineer needs drainage information for design, not just repair
• Insurers have asked for a drain survey after subsidence or escape of water
• You need to know where drains run for new foundations or extensions
• There is confusion over what will actually be delivered on site

How We Diagnose the Problem

A basic CCTV drain survey focuses on internal pipe condition along accessible runs and produces video and a short report. A full drainage survey combines CCTV, tracing, mapping and level checks to create drawings that show pipe locations, depths, sizes and gradients. Only the latter supports design and long‑term asset management.

How We Fix It

When you request support through this site we clarify your objective first: fault‑finding, insurance evidence, or design information. For reactive drainage issues we refer you to a drainage specialist such as mainlinedrains.co.uk. For development and design work, our survey partners provide integrated drainage and topographical survey packages.