Yes. Just because a home is newly built doesn’t mean everything beneath the surface is in perfect condition. Drainage systems often hide issues like blocked pipes, poor connections or misalignments. CCTV drain survey helps catch these faults early and can protect you from costly future repairs.
New homes may look pristine, but they can still come with drainage faults. Pressured construction schedules and rushed handovers often mean underground checks are skipped. Because drainage is hidden, issues can remain undetected until they cause problems.
Roughly 1 in 5 new builds experience drainage issues in their first year. Even with the NHBC warranty and Part H Building Regulations in place, real installation quality may fall short. Getting a drain survey gives you real insight and added peace of mind. It also boosts homebuyer confidence by offering documented proof of drainage condition.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a drainage plan from the developer before committing to a purchase—it reveals what was actually installed.
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Builders tend to prioritise visible finishes, often leaving underground work unchecked. It’s common to find debris in pipes, poor gradients or incorrect fittings. These mistakes can lead to slow drainage, backups or worse once you’re living in the property. Spotting them early gives you more control. Many of these hidden drain problems aren’t noticed until daily use begins.
A couple in Reading discovered collapsed drains just months after moving in. Without a pre-purchase survey, they couldn’t prove the issue was pre-existing. The NHBC rejected their claim, and they were left with a repair bill topping £200,000. A basic survey could have changed everything.
Reddit’s r/HousingUK has numerous posts from buyers facing blocked or broken drains weeks after moving in. Many had no pre-move inspection and were blamed for the damage. A CCTV survey provides proof and confidence to push back if needed. Several posts highlight how skipped inspections can turn into full-blown new home regrets.
CCTV surveys go beyond surface checks. They record pipe layouts, internal conditions, water flow and structural problems. Issues like cracks, root ingress or misaligned joints become easy to spot. You receive expert advice and a clear drainage map in one report. These tools help deliver pre-completion insights that general surveys miss.
Standard homebuyer or mortgage surveys rarely inspect underground drainage. This blind spot can leave you unaware of major issues. A CCTV inspection fills the gap, revealing hidden risks and supporting price negotiation or repairs. It ensures a proper home drainage survey is completed before you commit.
CCTV drain surveys typically cost £160 to £275 depending on the property and detail level. A decent survey includes high-resolution footage, clear reporting and an overview of your entire drainage setup. For those concerned with the cost of drain survey UK wide, this is a competitive and transparent range.
Yes. Replacing faulty drainage can cost thousands. A one-off survey is a small upfront cost that could save you from major expenses later. For buyers watching their budget, it’s a smart step. Surveying early prevents future drain fault risks and aligns with pre-purchase best practices.
Pro Tip: Check if the drainage was part of the snagging inspection. If not, assume it was not checked at all.
A drain report can lead to price reductions, builder repairs or delayed completion until faults are fixed. Many buyers have saved money or secured improvements just by having proper documentation. In some cases, drainage findings led directly to successful property valuation adjustments.
Providers like 24hrs Drainage Ltd offer fast turnaround, often within a day. Their reports support legal claims, mortgage sign-off and insurance cover. Having one gives you a solid position in any follow-up discussions and may support a drain report for mortgage purposes.
Free Advice From Our Drainage Team
Not sure if your new build needs a survey? Speak with our engineers for tailored advice.
Even when drainage complies on paper, real-world installations may differ. Developers sometimes reroute pipes or rush installation. A CCTV survey shows you what was actually built, not just what was planned. It supports your new build handover checklist and confirms water authority compliance.
NHBC policies do not always cover problems seen as user error or blockages. If there’s no proof from before you moved in, your claim might be denied. Early inspection gives you that backup. Knowing what warranty limits drainage coverage protects you from future disputes.
A survey is especially useful if:
The property is by a smaller or unknown developer
The site has flood risks or steep slopes
Completion was rushed
Non-standard or soakaway drainage is used
All of these increase drainage risk. A quick consultation with local drain experts can guide you. If you’re unsure, ask if your site fits the small builder checklist or sits in a high risk drainage area.
Large developments with good track records and thorough inspections might be lower risk. Still, many buyers prefer certainty. If you’re unsure, 24hrs Drainage Ltd will advise you at no cost. Their team regularly helps assess whether a survey for new homes is a smart next step.
Has the developer shared a drainage plan?
Were underground drains properly checked?
Do sinks or showers drain slower than expected?
What does your solicitor or surveyor advise?
Is the site known for waterlogging or floods?
Has this developer had drainage issues before?
Can you view a CCTV drain report before contracts?
Contact 24hrs Drainage Ltd to book your survey. Most are completed within a day and include full reports and expert advice. For Reading property market buyers, their team offers local insight and proven support.
A drain survey gives you clear knowledge, strong protection and peace of mind before you commit.
Book Your Pre-Purchase Drain Survey Today
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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
We provide Drainage Services across Berkshire, Hampshire, Surrey, London, Oxfordshire, and the surrounding areas.
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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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