Is a Drain Survey Worth It?

Should I get a drain survey when buying a house?

When you are purchasing a property, there are certain factors that you should consider – and getting a drain survey is one of them. A drain survey is an effective way of checking if the drains on the property are in good working order. This survey involves checking for problems such as damage, blockages or any other potential issues with the drainage system. It's worth considering, especially if you're buying an older property. According to professionals in the industry, it's important to ensure that the drains and sewerage systems are in good working order to minimise the risk of future problems with your drains. In many cases, the survey will be carried out by a trained CCTV surveying technician who will insert a robotic camera into the drain to get a clear picture of what’s happening inside. The survey can detect any damage such as cracks, or signs of clogging or leaking, and it's a great way to find out whether the drains need any repairs or maintenance. The other main benefit of getting a drain survey is that it can alert you to any potential problems that may have been missed during the house viewing or survey.

Is it worth getting a drainage survey?

When it comes to determining whether a drain survey is worth it, it's important to consider the potential risks and costs associated with buying a property without one. Professional drain surveys can support the process of buying a new home by providing valuable information about the condition of the drains and sewers, as well as any potential problems that may need attention in the future. This means that you can be confident that the home doesn't have any major issues that could lead to costly repairs or replacements down the line.

It's also worth noting that getting a drain survey can often save you a lot of frustration and worry when it comes to dealing with potential maintenance or repair issues, as the problem and solution will have already been identified. In addition, getting a drain survey can save you money in the long run, as it can prevent any serious and expensive repair works that may have been necessary if the problem had been left undetected.

What does a drainage survey involve?

A professional drain survey will typically involve a qualified technician using a CCTV camera to inspect the drains. This camera will take high-resolution images of the drains so that any potential problems can be identified. These problems can range from small obstructions to more serious defects such as cracked pipes or broken seals.

Once the inspection is complete, the technician will compile a report which outlines any issues that have been identified. This report will then be provided to the homeowner so that they can decide whether any repair works are necessary and can plan accordingly.

How much should I pay for a full structural survey?

The cost of a full structural survey can vary significantly depending on the size and complexity of the property. Generally speaking, the fee is likely to be somewhere between £250 and £450. However, this cost can dramatically vary depending on the location of the property and the surveyor you choose. For example, if the property is particularly large or a listed building, then the fee is likely to be higher than average.

Are underground drains worth it?

If you have a basement or are living in an area where flooding is common, installing underground drains can be a great way to protect your property from water damage. Underground drains help by diverting the water away from the foundation of your property, and they also prevent soil erosion around the property.

In addition, if you invest in longer-lasting underground drains made with metal or plastic pipes, this can help to improve the performance of the drainage system and reduce the chance of leaks. While this type of installation can be expensive, it can pay off in the long run, as it can save you from the worst of potential leaks.