Comprehensive Guide to CCTV Drain Surveys - FCD Drainage

Here at FC Drainage Solutions we are committed to providing professional solutions for all your drainage needs. We have at hand the combined services of drainage consultants, groundworks services, and plumbers throughout London, Hertfordshire and Essex and meet hundreds of people who suffer the consequences of blocked drains, overflow issues and water pooling at their homes and workplaces.

One of our most popular drainage services are CCTV drain surveys and we have trained drainage consultants operating across the South East who specialise in the use of CCTV drain survey equipment. If you're in the South East and are facing drainage issues one option would be to work with us on CCTV drainage surveys as a solution. These inspections are important for plumbing and drainage professionals, providing a cost-effective and efficient way to assess underground pipes.

In this post, we'll explore some top tips for successful CCTV drainage surveys including choosing and maintaining the equipment, prioritising safety and documenting the findings. These surveys help you to identify problems that traditional rodding and high-pressure jet washing techniques can’t effectively resolve. We use the most innovative technology to evaluate the condition of underground networks, the reasons behind blockages and how we can resolve your problems.

Use the Correct Equipment

Make sure you partner with a company that looks after their equipment and invests in the latest innovations. Using the best cameras, cables, and monitors is a must. Regularly maintaining and calibrating the equipment ensures that technical glitches won't interrupt your surveys and leads to consistent survey quality.

Also, keep spare parts and backup gear on hand for emergencies. We conduct CCTV drain surveys by inserting a flexible fibre optic cable, connected wirelessly to a monitor above the ground, into the drainage system. The cables are easy to manoeuvre around corners and bends so we can explore the condition of the drains without digging or excavating which is significantly less disruptive for our customers.

Prioritise Safety

Safety should always be the top priority. Make sure that the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, safety goggles, and high-visibility clothing are available. If your surveys involve confined spaces, adhere to regulations, and take all precautions when entering them.

Make sure that a pre-survey visual inspection takes place first to identify any potential hazards like unstable ground, nearby utilities, or animal nests. Clear any debris or obstructions from the access point, clean the drains as thoroughly as possible to give the clearest images and prevent the camera from getting stuck.

Document What you Find

It may seem obvious when you can see the images the CCTV camera provides, however it is essential that detailed notes are made of what is found during the survey. Record video footage, note any anomalies such as cracks, root intrusions, or blockages, complete with distance measurements for precise reporting.

Note the severity of any defects and identify any possible causes to discuss later that can support you to make recommendations and work with a trusted drainage expert to rectify the problems and provide estimated costs and timelines. We provide detailed reports on the condition of pipework and the drainage system as a whole including the underlying causes of cracks, leaks and damage such as tree root damage, silt deposits or debris.

In Summary

CCTV drain surveys are an invaluable tool for assessing the condition of drainage systems. By following these tips, you can conduct successful surveys that provide accurate information for recommendations to rectify the problem, helping them maintain their drainage systems efficiently and prevent costly repairs.

If you are based in London, Hertfordshire and Essex and want to know more about our CCTV drainage surveys you can speak to one of the team who will be on hand to help you out. You can be assured of expert guidance and honesty. We will always be upfront about the cost of the work required, so you know exactly what you’re paying for each part of our service. We can assure you that there will be no surprise costs at the end. Book online or call us on 0800 002 9522.