If you’re experiencing persistent drainage issues, planning a property extension, or preparing to buy a new home, you may need a CCTV drain survey. But how much does it cost, and is it worth it in 2025? This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about CCTV drain surveys, including updated pricing, what influences the cost, and why it’s a valuable service for both domestic and commercial properties.
What Is a CCTV Drain Survey?
A CCTV drain survey is an in-depth inspection of your drainage system using a specialist camera. It’s a non-invasive method of identifying problems like blockages, collapsed pipes, root ingress, or corrosion without the need for excavation. The camera feeds live footage to a monitor, allowing drainage professionals to assess the condition of the pipes.
How Does It Work?
The survey involves inserting a high-resolution camera—mounted on a rod or crawler—into the drainage system. The camera transmits live video to a technician, who records the footage and identifies issues. For comprehensive surveys, you’ll receive a detailed report including maps, footage, and recommendations for repairs.
Types of CCTV Drain Surveys
- Basic Drain Survey: A visual inspection to detect obvious issues, typically with no report or media provided.
- Full Drain Survey with Report: Includes detailed documentation, images, video footage, and a condition map
- Homebuyer Drain Survey: Tailored for property buyers, often required by insurers and mortgage lenders.
- Build-Over Survey: Necessary for homeowners planning extensions near existing drainage lines.
Average Costs of CCTV Drain Surveys in 2025
The cost of a CCTV drain survey varies by survey type, property size, access complexity, and location. Based on data from top UK service providers and cost guides, here’s what you can expect to pay in 2025:
| Type of Survey | Price Range | Average Cost |
| Basic Drain Survey | £85 – £235 | £160 |
| Full Survey with Report | £200 – £350 | £275 |
| Large Property Survey | £350 – £450 | £400 |
| Ground Excavation (if needed) | £100 – £300 | £200 |
What’s Included in the Cost?
- Site visit and inspection by a qualified technician
- Use of CCTV camera and recording equipment
- Diagnosis of drain condition
- For full surveys: detailed reporting, mapping, still images, and video
Some companies may offer bundled services that include minor blockage removal or drain cleaning.
Factors Affecting CCTV Drain Survey Costs
Knowing the cost influences helps you plan your budget effectively. The most common factors include:
1. Property Size and Drainage Complexity
Larger homes tend to have more extensive drainage systems. More pipework means a longer survey duration, higher labour time, and potentially the need for additional equipment.
2. Drain Accessibility
Easily accessible drains are quick to inspect. However, if drains are hidden under extensions, patios, or landscaping, access can become time-consuming. You may incur extra costs if excavation or lifting manhole covers is necessary.
3. Survey Type
Basic visual inspections cost less, but if you need a formal report for legal or planning purposes, you’ll pay more for detailed analysis and documentation.
4. Location
Survey costs may be slightly higher in London and the South East due to increased labour charges and operational costs. Northern and rural areas typically offer more competitive pricing.
5. Equipment Used
Surveys for large-diameter pipes or commercial systems often require crawler units instead of push rod cameras, which increases cost.
What Can a CCTV Drain Survey Detect?
A professional CCTV survey is incredibly precise and can detect a wide range of issues:
Common Findings Include:
- Drain blockages caused by grease, debris, wipes, or foreign objects
- Collapsed or cracked drains, often due to aging pipes or poor installation
- Tree root ingress, which disrupts pipe joints and causes leaks
- Leaking or corroded pipes, particularly in older metal drainage systems
- Displaced joints or misaligned pipework
- Rodent infestations, with signs like bite marks, nests, or faeces
- Evidence of poor installation from DIY or unqualified work
Preventative Insight
Even if your system seems fine, a drain survey can spot early-stage issues before they become emergencies. This is particularly useful for property maintenance and insurance claims.
How Long Does a CCTV Drain Survey Take?
The time required depends on the size and complexity of the drainage network:
- Small to medium properties: 1–2 hour
- Larger or complex systems: 3–6 hours
- Surveys requiring excavation or report preparation: potentially a full day
A well-trained technician should provide a time estimate before the job begins.
When Should You Consider a CCTV Drain Survey?
While surveys are not always necessary, several scenarios make them essential:
Home Purchase or Sale
A pre-purchase drain survey can expose hidden problems, saving you thousands in future repairs. Some mortgage providers even require it.
Building Extensions
Local authorities may demand a build-over drain survey to ensure you’re not building on or obstructing public sewers.
Persistent Drainage Issues
If you have repeated blockages, slow drainage, or unpleasant odours, a CCTV survey is the most reliable way to pinpoint the cause.
Following Flooding or Ground Movement
Subsidence or garden flooding may be linked to underground drain failure. A survey can confirm or rule this out.
DIY vs Professional CCTV Drain Surveys
Can You Do It Yourself?
DIY kits with small cameras are available, but they lack the power, resolution, and durability of professional equipment. More importantly, interpreting footage and identifying issues requires expertise.
Risks of DIY Surveys
- Misdiagnosing problems
- Damaging pipes or leaving equipment inside drains
- No formal report for legal or insurance purposes
- Poor camera range and lighting
Benefits of Hiring Professionals
- Access to high-definition, commercial-grade equipment
- Professional assessment and detailed reporting
- Insurance-backed work and safety compliance
- Often includes minor fixes during the survey
For homeowners in Scotland, Drainmaster Scotland is your go-to expert. As the country’s leading drainage and emergency plumbing specialist, we offer fast, efficient, and comprehensive CCTV drain surveys across the region. Don’t take risks with DIY—trust Drainmaster Scotland to inspect, diagnose, and resolve your drainage issues swiftly. Contact us today for reliable, 24/7 service from engineers you can depend on.
Add-On Services and Repair Costs
If your CCTV survey uncovers issues, you may need follow-up services. Here’s a typical price guide:
| Service | Estimated Cost |
| Jetting and Unblocking | £80 – £250 |
| Drain Relining or Patch Repair | £150 – £500+ |
| Root Removal | £150 – £350 |
| Excavation and Pipe Replacement | £250 – £1,000+ |
Check if your provider includes minor unblocking within the survey cost—some do, others charge separately.
Conclusion: Is a CCTV Drain Survey Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re a homeowner, buyer, or landlord, a CCTV drain survey provides peace of mind, reduces the risk of major repairs, and gives you a clear understanding of your property’s plumbing health.
With prices ranging from £85 for a basic inspection to £450+ for complex cases, it’s a smart investment that pays for itself by avoiding costly surprises.
If you’re experiencing persistent drainage issues or planning property work, don’t delay. Get a CCTV drain survey quote from a certified drainage expert in your area today.