What are CCTV Drain Surveys?

Date

February 17, 2023

Author

Marco

CCTV drain surveys are an essential tool used to inspect the interior of drainage systems and identify any problems affecting their functionality. These surveys use specialised cameras to provide a detailed view of the pipes, allowing technicians to assess the system’s condition and identify any issues that may need to be addressed. In this article, we will discuss the purpose of CCTV drain surveys, the different types of cameras and techniques used, and the benefits of using these surveys for drain maintenance and repair.

Purpose of CCTV Drain Surveys

CCTV drain surveys are used to inspect the internal condition of pipes, identify any issues that may be affecting the performance of the drainage system, and help determine the best course of action to resolve these issues. These surveys can be used to identify problems such as cracks, blockages, and other structural defects in the pipes and help to determine if there is a need for repair or replacement. The internal condition of pipes can be difficult to assess without a specialised camera. Over time, pipes can become blocked with debris, roots, and other materials, reducing their flow capacity and causing issues such as backups and blockages. Additionally, pipes may be damaged due to external factors such as ground movement, changes in temperature, and exposure to corrosive substances. CCTV drain surveys provide a non-invasive method for inspecting the interior of pipes and assessing their condition. This means there is no need for excavation or disruption of the ground surface to access the pipes, making the process faster and more cost effective than traditional methods.

Types of Cameras and Techniques Used in CCTV Drain Surveys

Several different types of cameras and techniques are used in CCTV drain surveys, each with unique features and benefits. Some of the most common types of cameras include:

Push Rod Cameras: Push rod cameras are attached to a long, flexible rod inserted into the pipes through a small access point. The camera is then pushed through the pipes, transmitting real-time video footage to a monitor. This type of camera is commonly used for smaller pipes and is best suited for inspections in tight or difficult-to-reach areas.
Crawler Cameras: Crawler cameras are equipped with a set of wheels or tracks that allow them to move through the pipes, providing a continuous view of the interior. These cameras are typically used for larger pipes and are ideal for inspecting long pipe sections in a single run.
Pan and Tilt Cameras: Pan and tilt cameras are equipped with a mechanism that allows the camera to move and adjust its angle, providing a more comprehensive view of the interior of the pipes. These cameras are often used in conjunction with other types, such as push rod cameras, to provide a complete and detailed view of the pipes.
Digital Cameras: Digital cameras are equipped with high-resolution sensors that capture high-quality images and video footage. These cameras are often used in combination with other types of cameras, such as crawler cameras, to provide a detailed and accurate view of the interior of the pipes.

In addition to these camera types, there are several techniques used in CCTV drain surveys, including:

Colour Coding: Colour coding is a technique used to identify specific types of pipes and features within the pipes. This can help identify the source of blockages or other issues and determine the type of material used in the construction of the pipes.
Lateral Launching: Lateral launching is a technique used to inspect lateral pipes that connect to the main drain line. This is achieved by inserting a camera into the pipe.

How Long Does a CCTV Drain Survey Take?

The duration of a CCTV drain survey depends on the complexity and size of the drainage system being inspected and the method being used. A small residential property with a simple drain layout may only take a couple of hours, while a large commercial property with extensive underground piping could take several days to complete. The drain survey process involves using a specialised camera to inspect the interior of the pipes and record any observations or issues. The survey footage is then analysed by a technician to produce a detailed report of the findings.

In general, it is essential to allow enough time for the survey to be completed thoroughly and accurately so that any issues can be identified and addressed in a timely manner.

Is a CCTV Drain Survey Worth It?

Yes, a CCTV drain inspection is worth it for several reasons.

Non-Invasive and Efficient: A CCTV drain inspection is a non-invasive and efficient way to inspect the interior of pipes and identify any issues that may be affecting the performance of the drainage system. Unlike traditional methods that require excavation and disruption of the ground surface, a CCTV drain inspection can be completed quickly and without any significant impact on the surrounding area.
Comprehensive View of the Pipes: CCTV drain inspections provide a comprehensive view of the pipes, allowing technicians to assess the system’s condition and identify any issues that may need to be addressed. This includes cracks, blockages, and other structural defects that may affect the system’s performance.
Cost-Effective: CCTV drain inspections are often more cost-effective than traditional drain inspection and repair methods. By using specialised cameras to inspect the pipes, there is no need for excavation or other time-consuming and costly procedures, reducing the overall cost of the inspection.
Early Detection of Issues: A CCTV drain inspection can help in identifying problems before they become more severe and costly to repair. By catching problems early, it is possible to take corrective action and prevent further damage to the system.
Accurate Diagnosis: The detailed images and video footage captured during a CCTV drain inspection can be used to accurately diagnose the cause of any issues and determine the best course of action to resolve them. This can help ensure the right repair is made, reducing the risk of further damage to the system.

Overall, a CCTV drain inspection is a valuable investment that can help maintain the health of your drainage system, identify and resolve any issues, and save you time and money in the long run.

CCTV drain surveys can be used for a variety of purposes, including:

Drainage System Inspection: The primary use of CCTV drain surveys is to inspect the pipes’ interior and assess the drainage system’s condition. This helps identify issues affecting the system’s performance, such as blockages, cracks, and other structural defects.
Pre-Purchase Property Surveys: CCTV drain surveys can be used as part of a pre-purchase property survey for assessing the condition of the drainage system before a property is purchased. This can help identify any issues that need to be addressed and provide valuable information to potential buyers.
Problem Diagnosis: CCTV drain surveys can be used to diagnose the cause of problems with the drainage system, such as blockages, backups, and slow-draining pipes. The detailed images and video footage captured during the survey can be used to accurately diagnose the cause of the problem and determine the best course of action to resolve it.
Drainage System Maintenance: CCTV drain surveys can be used as part of a regular maintenance program to assess the condition of the drainage system and identify any issues that may need to be addressed. This can help maintain the system’s health and prevent more severe problems from developing.
Insurance Claims: CCTV drain surveys can support insurance claims related to drainage issues, such as damage to the pipes caused by ground movement or other factors. The video footage and images captured during the survey can provide valuable evidence to support a claim.
Planning and Design: CCTV drain surveys can provide information for planning and designing new drainage systems, helping to ensure that the system is designed and installed correctly from the outset.

Overall, CCTV drain surveys are a versatile and valuable tool for assessing the condition of drainage systems, diagnosing problems, and planning and designing new systems. They provide detailed information about the state of pipes, allowing professionals to make informed decisions about the best course of action to resolve any issues.