Pre-Purchase CCTV Drain Surveys
Buying a New Property?
Buying a home is a huge investment, but standard surveys often miss what lies beneath. RAW Services offers detailed Pre-Purchase Drain Surveys to inspect underground pipework before you exchange contracts.
Uncover Hidden Drainage Issues
Avoid Expensive Surprises
Many serious drainage problems are completely invisible during a normal house viewing. Using advanced CCTV cameras, our professional team inspects the underground pipes to check for blockages, tree-root ingress, misaligned joints, and structural cracks.
Repairs for these issues can range from hundreds to thousands of pounds—finding them now can save you money later or help you negotiate the purchase price.
Full Report, Footage & Plans
Comprehensive Documentation
You need clear facts to make an informed decision. Following our inspection, we provide a complete package including a full PDF report, high-quality video footage of the drainage system, and a detailed map of the drainage layout.
We also include clear recommendations and estimated costs for any necessary repairs or maintenance, ensuring you have the full picture before you move in.
Pre-Purchase CCTV Surveys FAQ
What is a pre-purchase drain survey?
A pre-purchase drain survey is a specialised CCTV inspection of a property’s drainage system carried out before you complete the purchase. While a standard home surveyor checks the walls and roof, this survey focuses specifically on the condition of the underground pipework to ensure there are no hidden faults.
Why is a pre-purchase cctv survey important?
Crucially, detailed drainage inspections are not included in standard home buyer reports. While a general surveyor may check the surface, they do not use cameras to inspect the structural condition of the pipes underground.
Because issues like collapsed pipes, misaligned joints, or tree root intrusion are hidden from view, they are impossible to spot during a standard viewing. These defects can cost thousands of pounds to repair. Our specialised survey fills this gap, identifying defects early and giving you the leverage to request repairs or negotiate the property price before you commit to the purchase.
What specifically do you check for?
Our professional team uses CCTV cameras to inspect the underground pipes and inspection chambers. We look for blockages, tree-root ingress, structural cracks, collapsed sections, and misaligned joints that could cause future flow problems.
What will I receive after the survey?
You will receive a comprehensive data pack to help you make your decision. This includes a full written PDF report of our findings, video footage of the inspection, a map/plan of the drainage layout, and a list of recommendations for repairs with estimated costs.
Do mortgage lenders require a drain survey?
It is becoming increasingly common, especially for older properties or homes in areas known for drainage issues. Some mortgage lenders and insurance providers may require a satisfactory drain survey before approving a loan or policy.
Can a pre-purchase cctv survey help me negotiate the house price?
Yes. If our survey reveals significant defects that require expensive repairs, you can use our written report and cost estimates to negotiate a lower purchase price with the seller to cover the remedial work.
