CCTV Drain Survey Costs 2025: UK Homeowner Guide
Why a CCTV Drain Survey Matters
CCTV drain survey uses specialised camera equipment to inspect underground drainage systems. Whether you're buying a property, facing recurrent blockages, considering an extension, or want to avoid hidden collapse, this survey gives you clarity.
How Much Does a CCTV Drain Survey Cost in the UK?
Key Figures & Sources
Here are the latest cost benchmarks for 2025, drawn from multiple UK sources:
- Checkatrade: Basic survey £85–£235; full survey with report £200–£350; large property £350–£450.
- Drainage & Sewerage Association (DASA): Basic £65–£165; detailed £90–£200; full with report ~£200–£350.
- Kent Drainage: Basic survey average £85–£235; full survey £200–£350.
- Aspect Drainage: Drain mapping survey starts from £315 + VAT for up to 4 manholes; inspection from £225 + VAT.
- London Drains Direct: Fixed price starts from £160 + VAT for two manholes; additional manholes ~£40 each + VAT.
- MyBuilder cost guide: Typical range £100–£400.
- KJC Drainage: Basic survey £90–£150; full survey £250–£400.
- AnyDrains blog: Basic ~£160; full ~£275; large properties ~£400+.
- Drain Local: £180 fixed for up to 5 pipe runs; additional runs cost £30 each; recording/report £240.
- Maintain Drains: Homebuyer survey £100–£350; build-over survey £250–£400; commercial from £500+
Typical Cost Bands
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
What’s Included in the Cost?
Most CCTV drain surveys include:
- Camera inspection of accessible pipe networks up to a point.
- Video footage + still images (often).
- Report or condition summary (depending on level).
- Mapping in advanced/mapping surveys.
Some extras may add: manhole access, excavation, site reinstatement, root or blockage removal.
What Factors Affect the Cost of a CCTV Drain Survey?
1. Length & complexity of the drainage system
More pipe runs, deeper runs, multiple manholes = higher cost.
2. Access & pipe condition
Difficult access (driveways, under slabs) or collapsed/blocked pipe = extra time & equipment.
3. Type of survey
Basic inspection is cheaper; full survey with mapping and report costs more.
4. Location & region
Higher labour cost areas (London, South East) often see higher survey fees.
5. Number of access points/manholes
Each extra manhole may add to cost.
6. Additional services required
If survey reveals serious damage, clearance, relining or full replacement may be needed – extra cost.
Why It’s Worth Doing
- Identifies hidden defects (cracks, root ingress, collapsed pipe).
- Helps avoid major repair costs later.
- Provides documented conditions for home purchase, insurance, or building work.
- Non-invasive compared to full excavation.
Practical Advice for Homeowners
- Ask for detailed quotes showing what is included (footage? report? mapping?).
- Get at least three quotes from reputable drainage specialists.
- Clarify access points and whether any excavation or reinstatement is included.
- If you’re buying a property, consider a full survey with a report (£200-£350+) rather than just a basic check.
- Understand that the survey cost is separate to any repair or remediation found.
- Keep a copy of the report if doing future building works — may save time & cost later.
Summary & Key Takeaway
In 2025 UK domestic markets expect to pay around £85 to £235 for a basic CCTV drain survey, and around £200 to £350 (or more depending on property size/complexity) for a full survey with report. Larger homes or complex systems may cost £300-£450+ (or more for commercial). Knowing the major cost drivers helps you anticipate what your quote should look like, and avoid unexpected upsells or hidden costs
