Step-by-Step Guide to CCTV Drain Camera Inspections: What to Expect

Drainage issues can be a property owner’s worst nightmare. Whether it’s frequent blockages, foul odors, or slow-draining water, problems in your underground drainage system can cause serious inconvenience and costly damage. That’s where CCTV drain camera inspections come in—a modern, non-invasive way to diagnose and monitor your drainage system’s health.

This advanced inspection method uses high-resolution cameras to view the inside of pipes and identify any damage, blockages, or weaknesses. If you’re considering a CCTV drain survey for your home or commercial property, knowing what to expect can help you prepare and get the most out of the process.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to how CCTV drain camera inspections work and what happens during each stage.

What Is a CCTV Drain Camera Inspection?

A CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) drain inspection involves sending a waterproof camera into your drainage pipes to visually inspect their condition. The camera is connected to a monitor where a trained technician watches live footage and records the findings. These inspections help identify common drainage problems such as:

• Blockages
• Tree root intrusion
• Cracks or structural damage
• Pipe misalignment
• Corrosion and wear

The entire process is efficient, non-destructive, and provides highly accurate results.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Site Assessment

Before the inspection begins, a professional surveyor or drainage technician will carry out an initial consultation. This step includes:

• Discussing any drainage issues you’ve experienced (e.g., slow drains, flooding, smells)
• Assessing the type and size of your property (residential, commercial, industrial)
• Locating access points to your drainage system, such as manholes or cleanout valves
• Identifying any specific concerns or areas that need close inspection

If your property has detailed drainage plans, sharing these can help the surveyor understand the layout before starting.

Step 2: Drain Cleaning (If Necessary)

In some cases, the drainage pipes may need to be cleaned before the inspection begins. This step is important because:

• Accumulated debris, grease, or blockages can obscure the camera’s view
• A clear pipe ensures accurate footage and reduces the chance of equipment getting stuck
• It helps technicians get a complete picture of the drain’s internal condition

Drain cleaning is typically done using high-pressure water jetting to remove any obstructions or buildup.

Step 3: Inserting the CCTV Camera

Once the pipes are clear, the CCTV camera is inserted into the drainage system through an access point. The type of camera used depends on the size and complexity of the pipes. Options include:

• Push rod cameras: Used for small, straight drains
• Crawler cameras: Remote-controlled units ideal for large or complex systems

The camera is maneuvered through the pipes, and the technician watches live footage on a screen to assess the condition of the interior.

Step 4: Real-Time Monitoring and Footage Capture

As the camera moves through the drainage network, it captures high-definition video footage of the internal surfaces of the pipes. The technician will monitor the following:

• Cracks or fractures in the pipe walls
• Corrosion or material degradation
• Displaced joints or misalignments
• Tree root intrusion
• Blockages or foreign objects
• Signs of rodent activity

Real-time monitoring allows the technician to pause, zoom in, and make notes on areas of concern. The footage is usually recorded for later analysis and reporting.

Step 5: Mapping and Location Tracking

Advanced CCTV drain cameras are often equipped with sonde transmitters, which send signals above ground to help technicians track the camera’s exact location. Using a signal receiver, they can:

• Identify where problems are occurring
• Measure how deep the camera (and thus the pipe) is
• Accurately map out the drainage system layout

This geo-referencing is especially useful for planning repairs or when documentation is needed for future property works.

Step 6: Analysis and Reporting

After the inspection, the technician will analyze the recorded footage and prepare a detailed report. A professional CCTV drain inspection report typically includes:

• A summary of the overall condition of the drainage system
• High-quality video footage or still images of specific problem areas
• Locations, depths, and descriptions of any issues
• Recommendations for repair, maintenance, or follow-up
• Drainage system layout or map if needed

This report is a valuable resource for homeowners, landlords, contractors, or insurance companies and can be used for planning renovations, making claims, or documenting property condition.

Step 7: Recommendations and Next Steps

Based on the findings, the drainage technician will advise you on the next steps. This could include:

• Simple drain cleaning if the issue is buildup or partial blockage
• Localized repairs for cracks, root ingress, or joint displacement
• Pipe relining for damaged sections without excavation
• Full replacement if pipes are collapsed or beyond repair

In some cases, no action is needed if the system is in good condition. The report provides peace of mind and future maintenance guidance.

Benefits of CCTV Drain Camera Inspections

• Non-invasive: No digging or disruption to property
• Fast and accurate: Real-time diagnosis and pinpoint issue location
• Cost-effective: Avoid unnecessary repairs or property damage
• Prevention-focused: Detects small issues before they become major problems
• Comprehensive documentation: Ideal for property transactions or renovations

When Should You Consider a CCTV Drain Inspection?

• If you’re experiencing persistent drainage issues
• Before buying or selling a property
• Prior to home extensions or landscaping
• As part of routine property maintenance
• After flooding or heavy rainfall events

Conclusion

A CCTV drain camera inspection is a smart, modern approach to understanding the health of your property’s drainage system. By visually inspecting underground pipes without digging, these inspections save time, reduce costs, and help you make informed decisions about repairs and maintenance.

Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, builder, or property manager, knowing what to expect during a CCTV inspection helps you feel confident and prepared. From initial assessment to detailed reporting, this step-by-step process ensures your drains stay in peak condition—protecting your investment and preventing future headaches.