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General Drainage Advice Guide
GUIDE 11

GENERAL DRAINAGE 
ADVICE

Your go-to guide for understanding, maintaining and protecting your drainage system.

Whether you're buying a home, planning building work, dealing with a blocked drain or simply want to learn more about your drainage system, our advice centre is here to help.


Browse our expert guides below to find clear, practical information without the technical jargon.

01 Quick Answer

Most drainage problems can be prevented through regular maintenance and early investigation.


If you're unsure what's happening underground, a professional CCTV Camera Condition Inspection provides the information needed to make informed decisions before minor issues become expensive repairs.

02 Choosing the Right Survey

Not every drainage survey is designed for the same purpose.


Different surveys are available depending on your requirements.

Homebuyers

Ideal for assessing the condition of a drainage system before purchasing a property.

Architects

Designed to provide drainage information for planning, extensions and Build Over Agreements.

Landlords & Commercial Properties

Suitable for planned maintenance, compliance and asset management.

Rodent Investigations

Designed to identify defects that may allow rodents to enter your drainage system.

Not sure which survey you need?

Our team will be happy to recommend the most appropriate option.

03 Understanding Your Drainage System

A basic understanding of your drainage system makes it easier to recognise problems before they become serious.


Some common components include:

 

  • Inspection chambers 

  • Manholes 

  • Surface water drains 

  • Foul water drains 

  • Private drains 

  • Lateral drains 

  • Public sewers


Knowing which parts of the drainage system you own can also help avoid unnecessary repair costs.

Understanding Your Drainage System

04 Understanding CCTV Reports

Our reports are written in plain English and are designed to explain exactly what we've found.


Your report will include:

 

  • CCTV images and video 

  • Defect observations 

  • Recommendations 

  • Drainage layout drawing 

  • Pipe sizes and materials 

  • Invert depths 

  • Photographs


Our aim is to help you understand the condition of your drainage system without confusing technical language.

05 Drain Maintenance Tips

Simple maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of drainage problems.


We recommend:

Avoid flushing wipes, fats and oils
Keep gullies free from leaves and debris
Have your drains inspected periodically
Address minor problems before they worsen

Preventative maintenance is usually far more cost-effective than emergency repairs.

06 Common Drainage Problems

Some of the most common issues we encounter include:

 

  • Blockages 

  • Root penetration

  • Cracked or fractured pipes 

  • Displaced joints 

  • Collapsed drains 

  • Rodent entry points 

  • Scale and debris build-up 

  • Corrosion in older pipework


Most drainage defects become more expensive the longer they are left untreated.

07 When Should You Call a Professional?

It may be time to arrange a drainage inspection if you notice:

 

  • Repeated blockages 

  • Slow-draining sinks or toilets 

  • Bad smells 

  • Gurgling pipework 

  • Damp associated with drainage defects 

  • Water backing up through drains 

  • You're buying a property 

  • You're planning building works


Early investigation can often prevent extensive repairs.

08 How Our Process Works

1. Get in Touch

Tell us about your property and what you're experiencing.

2. Survey

Our engineer attends at an agreed appointment and carries out the required inspection.

3. Reporting

You'll receive a clear report explaining our findings.

4. Recommendations

If defects are identified, we'll explain your options and answer any questions.

5. Ongoing Support

Our team remains available to help with any next steps.

09 Costs, Discounts & Guarantees

We believe in transparent pricing and honest advice.


We offer:

Fixed pricing for our survey packages
Competitive repair quotations
Discounts on qualifying remedial works (where applicable)
15-year guarantee on qualifying lining and repair workmanship and materials 

We'll always explain costs before any additional work is carried out.

10 Why Choose Drainsmart

Choosing the right drainage contractor is just as important as choosing the right survey.


For over 20 years, we've helped homeowners, architects, businesses and property professionals understand and maintain their drainage systems.


Our engineers are accredited by both DrainSafe and the National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC), ensuring every inspection is carried out to recognised industry standards.


Our credentials include:

 

  • DrainSafe Accredited Contractor 

  • National Association of Drainage Contractors (NADC) Accredited 

  • Over 20 years' drainage experience 

  • Fully insured engineers 

  • Professional reports and practical recommendations 

  • Friendly, knowledgeable customer support 

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11 Need More Information?

If you're unsure which service you need or would simply like some advice, our experienced team is here to help.


Whether you're dealing with a blocked drain, purchasing a property or planning building work, we'll point you in the right direction.


Request a quotation today or call us on 0800 740 8040.

12 Frequently Asked Questions

Looking for a quick answer?


Our FAQ section covers topics including:

 

  • CCTV drain surveys 

  • Homebuyers surveys 

  • Build Over Agreements 

  • Blocked drains 

  • Drain repairs 

  • Rodent investigations 

  • Pricing 

  • Report turnaround times 

Related Guides

CCTV Camera Condition Inspections 
Homebuyers Drain Surveys
Architect Drainage Surveys
Drain Repairs Explained
Drain Lining Explained
Blocked Drains Explained
Rodents & Drainage
Commercial Drainage Solutions
Drainage & Insurance
Drainage Glossary
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