A CCTV drain inspection uses a waterproof camera to assess the internal condition of drainage pipes. It provides a clear view below ground without the need to lift flooring or dig. Shop owners and facilities managers can spot issues like blockages, corrosion, root ingress or pipe misalignment early. This helps prevent costly repairs and trading downtime. For more details on the service, see our commercial CCTV drain survey solutions.
For businesses in Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey and Oxfordshire, 24hrs Drainage Ltd offers these drain inspections with rapid response, clear reporting, and experienced engineers on hand around the clock.
Technicians choose between a push rod or crawler inspection camera, based on the pipe layout and size. These cameras deliver high resolution video from inside the drain system, even in tight or damp conditions. Footage is reviewed live on the technician’s monitor and saved for detailed analysis.
Surveys can uncover cracked sections, collapsed pipes, root intrusion, and water leaks. They also provide clear drainage mapping. Whether preparing for a tenant handover or dealing with frequent blockages, a survey offers clarity to protect your site and reduce risks. These reports support drainage failure detection, pipe misalignment checks and long term drainage monitoring.
Pro Tip: Always book a CCTV survey before a lease starts or ends—it protects you from costly disputes.
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Retail settings benefit from noninvasive inspections that avoid disrupting trade. The technology speeds up diagnostics, supports planned maintenance and detects problems before they lead to downtime. It works well across a varied retail footprint and supports in store drainage diagnostics.
Camera choice depends on the premises:
These lightweight tools are perfect for smaller shops and offer efficient, targeted checks during routine diagnostics. They are a go to for shop floor pipe scans and plumbing logistics.
Used in larger units or shopping centres, these cameras navigate longer, more complex drainage networks. They produce detailed video and handle multiple bends. These sewer crawlers work well with mobile inspection tools designed for commercial plumbing.
Technicians access the drain system and guide the camera through. They monitor the footage and record observations. Findings are compiled into a pipe condition report, including images and repair recommendations. This allows quick, informed decisions with the support of clear drainage CCTV footage.
Pro Tip: Pair inspections with your shopfit schedule to catch damage before it disrupts opening.
Retail shops are vulnerable to drainage issues due to customer footfall, shared plumbing, and hygiene expectations. A single blockage could lead to stock loss or store closure. Our emergency and preventative drain services can help reduce these risks.
Heavy use leads to faster pipe wear. Shared drainage systems make it harder to locate faults, especially in food retail where hygiene is vital. Ignoring issues risks compliance problems and customer complaints. In shopping centres, shared drainage means tenant coordination is often needed.
Stop Small Drain Issues Becoming Big Bills
Stay ahead with our commercial maintenance plans. Custom-fit for retail units.
Consider arranging an inspection if:
You smell foul odours
Drains are slow or overflowing
Flooring shows signs of water damage
Nearby tenants report problems
A lease is starting or ending
A timely report allows you to maintain standards and avoid bigger problems later.
The best time for an inspection is when it will cause the least disruption. Scheduling around store events, tenancy changes or seasonal lulls helps keep your operations smooth.Â
Before a new lease begins
After flooding or drainage issues
During quieter shopping periods
Plan inspections to align with your operational needs and protect your property. Including a property surveyor in timing discussions can help with lease compliance.
Annual checks suit most shops. Sites with high usage may need inspections more often. Routine surveys help prevent emergencies and keep systems running smoothly. Adding a drain survey to your shopfit checklist also prevents post renovation issues.
Inspections are usually done in a few hours with little disruption. Clearing access points beforehand helps the process go quickly.
Small units take one to two hours. Larger spaces or shared drains may take longer. Preparation helps reduce delays. Always factor in access permission and floor space clearance.
Clear access to drain covers
Let staff know the inspection schedule
Use warning signs if needed
Choose quieter hours for the visit
Being ready speeds up the process and keeps business on track. Include signage and safety cones if operating near customer zones.
CCTV surveys can be done with minimal impact. Crews can work before opening or after closing using compact equipment. Service transparency and off hour scheduling help with smooth coordination.
Schedule during off peak hours
Use portable tools that fit tight spaces
Keep staff informed
These steps ensure operations continue while inspections take place.
In shared buildings, speak with neighbours or management to arrange access. This avoids delays and helps the survey cover everything needed. Involving facilities managers and mall management improves alignment.
Preventative maintenance plans help retailers avoid unexpected drain failures that could disrupt trading, damage stock or trigger health safety issues. With scheduled CCTV surveys, descaling and proactive cleaning, you can catch early signs of root ingress, grease build-up or pipe wear before they escalate. This reduces the need for emergency repairs and keeps your drainage system running smoothly.
These plans also support compliance and peace of mind. Regular inspections create a maintenance record that protects you in lease agreements, insurance claims or health audits. For retailers, it’s a smart way to stay ahead of problems, manage costs, and ensure business continuity without the hassle of reactive callouts.
Catch issues before they grow
Lower emergency repair bills
Prove responsible management to landlords and regulators
A maintenance plan gives you a clear record of upkeep and helps avoid last minute fixes. It supports drainage tracking and plumbing forecasting.
Create a schedule with your drain provider. Save reports and inspection records for landlord reviews or insurance support. Regular entries in your drain log keep plumbing maintenance on track.
Drain reports are useful for lease discussions, insurance claims and compliance checks. They show exactly what condition your system is in.
Confirm pipe condition before moving in
Prevent disputes over damage
Use as evidence if needed
Having records helps protect your interests and keeps things fair. This supports liability clarity and documentation during exit readiness.
Support claims with visual proof
Pass inspections more easily
Strengthen your property risk profile
These documents are valued by insurers and inspectors alike. The audit record loop also improves commercial protection.
Book a drain inspection if:
Your lease is changing
Bad smells or slow flow are noticed
Renovation work is finished
Flooding or drain issues have happened
One inspection now could prevent major issues later. Drainage incident prevention costs less than reactive spend in a crisis.
Get Your Retail Drains Checked Today
Fast, disruption-free inspections from 24hrs Drainage Ltd. Zero call-out fees.
24hrs Drainage Limited
33 Falmouth Rd, Reading RG2 8QR
0800 020 9198
Opening Hours:
Monday – Sunday : Open and available 24 hours per day
Drain Services
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If You’re Dealing With Blocked Drains Or Require Drain Repairs, You’ve Come To The Right Destination. Contact Our Team Today At 0800 0209198 For Professional Guidance And A Complimentary, No-Obligation Quote!
We are the premier providers of comprehensive drainage solutions in Reading and throughout Berkshire. With years of experience and a dedicated team of experts, we are your trusted partners for all your domestic and commercial drainage needs.
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