Drainage systems come in different sizes and layouts. There are also different reasons to conduct a drain survey. That means that there is no one type of inspection that suits all situations.
There are different types of drain survey cameras. For instance, a CCTV drain survey Northampton, from wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/northampton, may use push rods or motorised crawlers:
Push rod camera
Push rod cameras are attached to the end of a flexible rod that can travel through the bends of even the narrowest pipes in residential homes, identifying damage and blockages on route. They mostly deal with minor and routine matters.
Robotic crawler
Robotic crawlers are chosen for larger pipes or more complex systems, including on industrial sites. They can diagnose the most significant structural defects. The camera is high definition and mobile, with a torch to aid visibility and tilting for manoeuvrability.
Floating camera
In situations where the water level prevents an effective performance from other cameras, a floating camera may be needed. This could be for a partially submerged pipe, or a culvert, particularly in stormwater systems. These cameras are essential for evaluating flood risk.
Some surveys may vary depending on their purpose:
Pre-purchase survey
Surveys, including of drains, are a vital part of identifying existing issues when buying a house. This prevents unwelcome surprises after you move, and may allow you to negotiate on the overall purchase price.
Before and after survey
If you are carrying out a building project that may impact your drainage system, then a pre-construction survey allows you to plan appropriately, whilst a post-construction survey ensures everything is finished correctly, without damage.
Insurance survey
If any drain issues do lead to costly repairs, you may need to make a claim on your insurance. This will require full documentation of the problem and any necessary repairs. The insurance company may require the survey to provide the evidence for the claim.
If you are considering a drain survey, you need to assess the nature of your drainage system and the reason for the inspection before making your choice.