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A worker in a hi-vis jacket operates a drain inspection camera over an open manhole in a paved parking area, with two orange traffic cones nearby for safety.

What is a CCTV Drain Survey?

A CCTV drain survey is a specialist service where a small, high-definition camera is fed through your drainage system to inspect the internal condition of the pipes. At Southern Drainage & Water Ltd, a trusted drainage company serving Southampton, Bournemouth, Guildford, Crawley, Woking, and all surrounding areas, we use the latest camera technology to identify anything from a minor blockage to a full pipe collapse.

Our expert team uses these surveys to spot cracks, tree root intrusions, structural damage, or accumulated debris — all without the need for digging and other forms of major disruption. Whether you’re facing slow-draining sinks or preparing for a property renovation, our surveys offer a comprehensive look beneath the surface.

A worker wearing blue gloves and protective shoes uses a black hose to clean or unblock a round outdoor drain on a stone-paved patio.
Close-up view inside a rusty, corroded pipe, showing rough, uneven surfaces and dark, narrow tunnel-like interior extending into darkness.

What You Receive From Us

Every CCTV drain survey we carry out across Southampton, Bournemouth, Guildford, Crawley, Woking, and throughout the wider region comes with a full suite of professional deliverables:

  • MPEG video footage with distance measurements
  • A Plan View Drain Layout showing all lateral entries
  • Still images captured and commented on by the engineer
  • A detailed written report with observations and recommendations
  • All files saved onto a convenient USB stick for easy sharing

This means you won’t just see the problem — you’ll have a complete, expert-led breakdown of the issue, suitable for future planning or professional works.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a CCTV drain survey used for?

It’s used to inspect the internal condition of your drains. This helps identify cracks, blockages, damage or collapses without the need to excavate.

How long does a CCTV drain survey take?

Most residential surveys can be completed within 1-2 hours, depending on access and system complexity.

Do I need a survey before building work?

Yes. A CCTV drain survey provides a drain layout plan that’s essential for safe construction or renovation planning.

Is the service messy or disruptive?

Not at all. The process is fast, clean, and entirely non-invasive. We won’t need to dig unless damage is found and repairs are required.

Will I get a copy of the footage?

Yes. You’ll receive MPEG footage, stills, and a full written report — all saved to a USB stick.

Close-up of a paved surface showing two different patterns: large rectangular gray tiles on the left and small square cobblestones on the right, separated by a metal drainage grate running vertically.

Contact Us for a Professional CCTV Drain Survey

If you’re based in Southampton, Bournemouth, Guildford, Crawley, Woking or anywhere else across the South, Southern Drainage & Water Ltd is the drainage company to trust. Whether you need a homebuyer drain survey, advanced drain diagnostics, or a fast-response CCTV survey due to a sudden emergency, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with our friendly team today on 08001 448480 for expert advice or to book your CCTV drain survey.