With drainage systems running deep underground, the first indication of a problem often means the issue has been around for some time. Without sight into our drains and pipework, problems can be difficult to diagnose, causing stress, bad smells and poor drainage for the household involved.
Homeowners are generally responsible for fixing drainage issues within their property boundaries, with lateral drains tended to by sewerage companies.
Common problems
1. Blockages are a gradual problem, building up in severity over the course of time. Fat, grease, hair and coffee grinds are the top causes of blocked drains. There are many DIY methods to help unblock drains; however, these should not be attempted until the cause is established.
2. Broken pipes caused by open or displaced joints and breaks can lead to wastewater leaking into the surrounding areas or surfaces. These are generally caused by structural instability, subsidence, or high-traffic areas. Pipes can sometimes be fixed with a pipe relining service.
3. Pipes and drains are subject to wear and tear, which may result in cracks and fractures.
4. Root intrusions from trees looking for water supplies are sometimes responsible for penetrating pipework and causing damage. This allows bad odours and wastewater to escape from the pipe. When roots have penetrated a pipe, there is also a higher risk of a blockage forming around the roots, resulting in a two-fold problem.
5. Collapsed pipework prevents wastewater from leaving the premises and is a serious issue. In the long term, this can cause weakened ground or sinkholes as the water seeps into the surrounding areas. Mould and damp may also be present.
CCTV drainage services
Professional companies can provide CCTV surveys of drainage networks, meaning problems can be diagnosed without the disruption of digging or the uncertainty of guesswork. Fully qualified and insured operatives work remotely, using high-tech state-of-the-art cameras to assess any damage, blockages or obstructions; for example, experts such as www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-alcester/ offer CCTV drainage surveys Alcester and the surrounding areas.
CCTV drain surveys save the homeowner mess, disruption and cost by diagnosing issues quickly and effectively.