A drain survey report might not sound like the most exciting thing in the world, but it can save you a lot of hassle down the line. Whether you’re buying a new property, dealing with ongoing drainage issues, or planning building work, it’s one of those checks that’s worth doing.
What does it involve?
A drain survey involves sending a small camera down the pipes to see exactly what’s going on. The report then gives you a clear picture of the condition of the drains. These can be things like cracks, blockages, root intrusion or various collapsed sections. One of the biggest reasons it’s so important is that many drainage problems are hidden. On the surface, everything might seem fine, but underground there could be issues quietly building up. Catching these early on prevents more serious, and expensive, repairs later on.
It’s particularly useful when buying a new home. Homeowners were offered free CCTV drain inspections as part of an initiative in Bedfordshire last year. A CCTV drain survey Wolverhampton carried out by CCTV drain survey in Wolverhampton carried out by specialists like www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/wolverhampton/ can highlight problems that wouldn’t show up in a standard property check, enabling you to address them in time.
A survey can be helpful if you’re planning an extension
A survey shows exactly where your drains run and whether they might be affected. Another benefit of a survey is peace of mind. Instead of guessing what might be causing slow drainage or recurring blockages around your property, you’ve got clear evidence right in front of you.
Why buyers benefit from a drain survey
For anyone buying a property, a drain survey fills a gap that the usual checks leave open. A RICS homebuyer report or a building survey does not give an in-depth view of the drains and pipework beneath the house, so it is possible to buy a home with hidden faults that prove expensive to fix later.
A specialist uses CCTV cameras to capture detailed images and video of the pipes without needing to dig or disturb them. The resulting report flags any problems, says whether they need immediate attention or can wait, describes the work involved with indicative costs, and explains who is responsible for maintaining the sewers and drains.
That information is also useful in negotiations. If the survey finds problems, particularly urgent ones, you may be able to agree a lower price with the seller to cover the cost of the repairs, which can make the survey pay for itself.
Building surveys and the wider property picture
A drain survey looks at one part of a property, but it often sits alongside a full building survey, and buyers should consider both. A house is likely to be the biggest purchase most people ever make, and too many buyers skip a proper inspection, only to find problems after they have moved in.
A building survey shows the true condition of the property so you can make an informed decision about whether to go ahead. It can also give an idea of the cost of repairs you may face, such as rewiring or replumbing, which may affect what you are willing to pay.
Choose a firm that specialises in building surveys, as you are trusting it with a very large sum of money. Read up on any company before you instruct it. Pairing a thorough building survey with a drain survey gives you a much fuller picture of the home, above and below ground, before you commit.
