CCTV Drain Surveys in Horsham
Pre-Purchase Surveys | Blockage Detection | Insurance Claims | Detailed Reports
See exactly what’s happening inside your drains with a professional CCTV drain survey. Horsham Drainage Pros uses HD drain cameras to inspect your drainage system, identify problems, and provide detailed reports – all without any digging or disruption.
Call [PHONE NUMBER] now to book your same-day drain survey from just £150.
Why Choose Our CCTV Drain Surveys?
✓ HD Camera Equipment – Crystal clear footage
✓ Same-Day Service – Book today, survey today
✓ Detailed Written Report – Comprehensive findings
✓ DVD Recording Included – Keep the footage
✓ Accurate Location Mapping – GPS coordinates of defects
✓ Insurance Approved – Reports accepted by all insurers
✓ No Digging Required – Non-invasive inspection
✓ Experienced Engineers – Trained drain surveyors
What is a CCTV Drain Survey?
A CCTV drain survey involves inserting a waterproof camera on a flexible rod into your drainage system. The camera transmits live HD footage, allowing our engineers to inspect the full length and condition of your drains.
We can identify:
- Cracks and fractures
- Root intrusion
- Collapsed sections
- Blockages and their causes
- Pipe damage and corrosion
- Joint displacement
- Scale and debris buildup
- Incorrect pipe gradients
Without digging up your property.
When You Need a CCTV Drain Survey
Buying a Property
Why you need a survey:
- Chartered surveyors don’t inspect drains
- Drainage problems can cost £5,000-20,000 to fix
- Problems aren’t visible above ground
- You need to know before completing purchase
What we check:
- Condition of all accessible drains
- Cracks, roots, blockages, collapses
- Connection points and manholes
- Potential future problems
Cost: £150-250 (far less than hidden repair costs)
When to book: After homebuyer survey, before exchange of contracts
Horsham property tip: Many Victorian properties in Horsham town centre have old clay drains. Always survey before buying.
Selling a Property
Why sellers benefit:
- Identify problems before viewers do
- Fix issues at your pace (not emergency rates)
- Show drainage certificate to buyers
- Smooth transactions
- Increased buyer confidence
Cost to fix later: Emergency repairs cost 2-3x planned repairs.
Recurring Blockages
If blockages keep returning:
- Something is causing them (crack, root, damage)
- DIY clearing is temporary
- CCTV identifies the root cause
- We show you exactly what’s wrong
Typical causes we find:
- Tree roots growing into cracks
- Collapsed pipe sections
- Foreign objects lodged in pipes
- Incorrect pipe gradients
Unexplained Damp
Drainage leaks cause:
- Damp patches in gardens
- Wet patches on interior walls
- Subsidence and ground movement
- Structural damage
- Health issues (mold)
CCTV survey locates:
- Exact location of leak
- Cause of leak
- Extent of damage
Faster and cheaper than:
- Exploratory excavation (digging randomly)
- Trial and error repairs
- Leaving it until major damage occurs
Insurance Claims
For successful claims, you need:
- Professional CCTV evidence
- Detailed written report
- Proof of sudden damage
- Accurate cost estimates
We provide:
- Insurance-approved reports
- HD video evidence
- Technical specifications
- Cause analysis
- Repair cost estimates
Insurers accept our reports without question.
Planning Extensions or Conservatories
Building over or near drains requires:
- Location of existing drains
- Condition assessment
- Building control approval
- Proper planning
CCTV survey provides:
- Accurate drain location mapping
- Depth measurements
- Condition report
- Evidence for building control
Building Regulations require drain surveys for some projects.
Property Management
Landlords and property managers need surveys for:
- Routine property inspections
- Preventative maintenance
- Tenant dispute evidence
- Portfolio management
- Warranty verification
We offer:
- Portfolio survey packages
- Annual inspection programs
- Reduced rates for multiple properties
- Comprehensive reporting
Tree Root Problems
If you suspect root damage:
- Trees within 10 meters of drains
- Recurring blockages
- Seasonal drainage issues
- Fine roots visible in toilet
CCTV shows:
- Extent of root intrusion
- Entry points (cracks)
- Which tree is responsible
- Best repair approach
What Our Survey Includes
1. Initial Consultation
Discussion of your concerns, property history, and survey requirements.
2. Site Visit
Our engineer arrives with HD camera equipment in fully stocked van.
3. Access Point Location
We identify best access points (manholes, inspection chambers, or external access).
4. Camera Inspection
HD waterproof camera inserted into drains. Live footage recorded throughout.
5. Full System Inspection
We inspect all accessible drainage including:
- Main drains
- Branch drains
- Connections
- Manholes
- Junction boxes
6. Location Mapping
GPS coordinates and depth measurements for any defects found.
7. Still Images
Key images captured of any problems or areas of concern.
8. Video Recording
Full inspection recorded to DVD (yours to keep).
9. Written Report
Comprehensive report includes:
- Executive summary
- Detailed findings
- Annotated images
- Recommendations
- Repair cost estimates
- Technical specifications
10. Consultation
We explain findings clearly, answer questions, and discuss next steps.
Survey Types & Pricing
Standard Domestic Survey – £150
Includes:
- Inspection of main drains (up to 30 meters)
- HD video recording (DVD provided)
- Written report with images
- Basic location mapping
- Verbal explanation of findings
Best for: Pre-purchase surveys, general checks, straightforward properties
Comprehensive Survey – £250
Includes:
- Full system inspection (up to 50 meters)
- HD video recording (DVD provided)
- Detailed written report (10-15 pages)
- GPS location mapping of defects
- Cause analysis
- Repair recommendations with costs
- Technical specifications
Best for: Insurance claims, complex properties, detailed investigations
Commercial Survey – From £300
Includes:
- Extended system inspection
- Multiple drain runs
- Commercial property specifications
- Compliance documentation
- CAD drawings if required
- Multiple copies of report
Best for: Restaurants, offices, retail, industrial properties
Drain Mapping Survey – From £400
Includes:
- Complete drain route mapping
- Depth measurements
- Manhole locations
- Connection points
- CAD drawings
- As-built documentation
Best for: Building projects, planning applications, large properties
FREE Survey With Services
Free CCTV survey included with:
- Drain repairs (saving £150)
- No-dig lining work
- Drainage system installation
- Root removal services
The survey ensures we repair the right problem first time.
What Problems Do We Find?
Cracked & Broken Pipes
Causes: Age, ground movement, tree roots, freezing
Signs: Slow drainage, damp patches, recurring blockages
Solution: Patch lining or sectional replacement
Root Intrusion
Causes: Trees seeking moisture, cracks allowing entry
Signs: Recurring blockages, seasonal issues, visible roots
Solution: Root cutting + crack repair + preventative treatment
Collapsed Drains
Causes: Age, ground movement, poor installation
Signs: Complete blockage, subsidence, multiple drains affected
Solution: Lining or excavation and replacement
Displaced Joints
Causes: Ground settlement, age, poor installation
Signs: Debris catching, recurring blockages
Solution: Patch lining or joint repair
Blockages
Causes: Fat, wipes, roots, foreign objects
Signs: Slow drainage, backing up, smells
Solution: Professional drain clearance
Scale & Debris
Causes: Hard water, age, poor gradient
Signs: Gradual slowing, reduced flow
Solution: High-pressure jetting
Corrosion
Causes: Age, chemical damage, hydrogen sulfide
Signs: Rust-colored water, leaks, recurring problems
Solution: Full pipe lining or replacement
Incorrect Gradients
Causes: Poor installation, ground settlement
Signs: Slow drainage, debris accumulation
Solution: Excavation and reinstallation
Sample Survey Report
Your comprehensive report includes:
Section 1: Property Details
- Address and location
- Property type and age
- Survey date and engineer
- Client details
Section 2: Executive Summary
- Overall condition rating (Good/Fair/Poor)
- Major findings summary
- Urgent issues highlighted
- Recommendations overview
Section 3: Detailed Findings
- Drain-by-drain analysis
- Distance measurements
- Defect descriptions
- Severity ratings
- GPS coordinates
Section 4: Photographic Evidence
- Annotated still images
- Before/after comparisons
- Problem areas highlighted
- Clear visual documentation
Section 5: Recommendations
- Priority ranking
- Repair options
- Cost estimates
- Timescales
- Preventative measures
Section 6: Technical Specifications
- Pipe materials
- Pipe diameters
- Depths and gradients
- System layout
- Access points
Section 7: Appendices
- Full video footage (DVD)
- Location maps
- Technical definitions
- Terms and conditions
Pre-Purchase Survey Process
1. Book Survey (After Homebuyer Survey)
Call us once your offer is accepted and homebuyer survey completed.
2. Arrange Access
We coordinate with estate agent for property access.
3. Conduct Survey (2-3 hours)
Comprehensive inspection of all accessible drainage.
4. Report Within 48 Hours
Detailed report delivered within 2 working days.
5. Use Findings
- Negotiate price reduction if problems found
- Request seller fixes issues
- Budget for repairs
- Walk away if too serious
6. Proceed or Negotiate
Armed with facts, make informed decision.
What Our Surveys Reveal
Common Issues in Horsham Properties
Victorian/Edwardian (Pre-1914):
- Clay pipes with mortared joints
- Root intrusion common
- Shallow drainage systems
- Shared drains with neighbors
1930s-1960s:
- Clay and cast iron pipes
- Root damage
- Joint displacement common
1960s-1980s:
- Pitch fiber pipes (deteriorating)
- Cast iron (corroding)
- Joint problems
Modern (Post-2000):
- Plastic pipes (good condition usually)
- Building defects occasionally
- Poor installation sometimes
Horsham-Specific Issues
Clay Soil
Heavy clay soil in Horsham causes:
- Ground movement cracking pipes
- Seasonal expansion/contraction
- Subsidence affecting drains
Our surveys identify: Cracks before they become collapses.
Mature Trees
Horsham’s tree-lined streets mean:
- High risk of root damage
- Seasonal drainage variations
- Root intrusion very common
Our surveys locate: Exact entry points for roots.
Hard Water
Moderately hard water causes:
- Limescale buildup
- Scale in drains
- Narrowed pipe diameter
Our surveys show: Scale accumulation levels.
Areas We Cover
CCTV drain surveys throughout:
Horsham | Warnham | Southwater | Rusper | Cowfold | Billingshurst | Broadbridge Heath | Crawley | Haywards Heath | Brighton | Worthing | Chichester
Full coverage across West Sussex and Surrey.
CCTV Drain Survey FAQs
How long does a drain survey take?
Standard domestic: 1-2 hours. Comprehensive: 2-3 hours. Large commercial: 3-4 hours.
Can you survey drains in the rain?
Yes, our cameras are fully waterproof. We work in all weather conditions.
Will you need to dig up my garden?
No, CCTV surveys are completely non-invasive. We use existing access points.
What if there are no manholes?
We can access via toilets, outside gullies, or create temporary access if needed.
Can you survey drains under buildings?
Yes, our cameras can reach drains under houses, extensions, conservatories, and driveways.
How deep can you survey?
Our equipment reaches drains up to 5 meters deep and 100+ meters in length.
What format is the report?
PDF document (emailed) plus DVD with video footage.
Do building societies accept your reports?
Yes, our reports meet all lender and surveyor requirements.
How quickly can I get results?
Full written report within 48 hours. Verbal findings provided on the day.
Can I be present during the survey?
Yes! We encourage clients to watch the live footage and ask questions.
Insurance Claims Support
We provide comprehensive support for insurance drainage claims:
Evidence We Provide:
- HD video proof of damage
- Still images of defects
- Technical reports
- Cause analysis
- Pre and post-repair surveys
- Accurate repair cost estimates
We Work With:
- All major insurers
- Loss adjusters
- Building surveyors
- Solicitors (for disputes)
Direct invoicing available for approved claims.
Commercial CCTV Surveys
We provide drain surveys for Horsham businesses:
Why businesses need surveys:
- Environmental Health compliance
- Preventative maintenance
- Grease trap efficiency
- Due diligence for purchases
- Lease requirements
- Planning applications
Businesses we help:
- Restaurants and cafes (grease management)
- Hotels and guest houses (system maintenance)
- Offices and retail (purchase surveys)
- Schools and nurseries (safety compliance)
- Care homes (health requirements)
- Industrial units (planning and compliance)
Benefits:
- Out-of-hours surveys available
- Minimal business disruption
- Compliance documentation
- Account facilities
- Multiple property discounts
When to Schedule Your Survey
Urgent (Book Today)
- Buying a property (exchange imminent)
- Insurance claim filed
- Unexplained flooding
- Recurring blockages
Soon (Book This Week)
- Planning an extension
- Noticed warning signs
- Selling a property
- Tree root concerns
Routine (Book This Month)
- Annual maintenance check
- Property portfolio inspection
- General peace of mind
- Pre-winter check
What Happens After Your Survey?
If Problems Found:
Minor Issues (cracks, early root intrusion)
- Preventative repairs recommended
- Can schedule at your convenience
- Relatively inexpensive to fix
- Prevents expensive future failures
Major Issues (collapses, severe damage)
- Urgent repairs needed
- We provide detailed quote
- Multiple repair options presented
- Can start work immediately if needed
No Issues Found
- Peace of mind
- Certificate provided
- Keep report for future reference
- Recommended re-survey in 3-5 years
Cost vs Benefit
Survey Cost: £150-250
What you avoid:
- Hidden drainage problems (£5,000-20,000 to fix)
- Emergency repairs at premium rates
- Property damage from leaking drains
- Purchasing a problem property
- Failed insurance claims (no evidence)
- Expensive exploratory excavation
ROI: A £150 survey can save you tens of thousands.
Book Your CCTV Drain Survey
Don’t buy blind. Know exactly what you’re getting.
📞 Call [YOUR PHONE NUMBER]
- Same-day surveys available
- From just £150
- Detailed reports within 48 hours
- HD footage on DVD
- All findings explained clearly
- No-obligation quotes for any repairs
Or request a callback – we’ll call you within 2 hours.
Customer Reviews
“Bought a Victorian cottage in Horsham. The survey revealed major root damage that would have cost £8k to fix. Negotiated £10k off the price. Survey paid for itself 60 times over!” – David & Sarah M, Horsham
“Landlord with 12 properties. They survey them all annually. Caught two major problems before they became emergencies. Professional service, good prices.” – Property Portfolio Owner
“Insurance claim for drain damage. Their detailed report with video evidence meant the claim was approved without question. Highly recommend.” – Commercial Client, Crawley
Related Services
- Drain Repairs Horsham – Fix problems identified
- Blocked Drains – Emergency clearance
- Drain Cleaning – Preventative maintenance
- Root Removal – Tree root solutions
Horsham Drainage Pros
Professional CCTV Drain Surveys
Serving Horsham & West Sussex
📞 Call Now:
📧 Email: info@horshamdrainagepros.co.uk
📹 HD Cameras | Detailed Reports | Same-Day Service
See inside your drains. Know before you buy.