More and more homeowners are building extensions to accommodate their needs. Whether it’s for more kitchen space, a new conservatory or a home gym, the extra space from an extension can really open up your home – quite literally.

It’s important to be mindful that you aren’t encroaching on your drainpipes’ space when extending your house, which is where CCTV drain surveys come in. Much like CCTV is used for surveillance, drain surveys allow you to monitor inside drains and identify potential issues with precision. This article explains why you should get a drain survey before building an extension.

Drain Strength

Drains don’t get enough appreciation for their resilience, withstanding years and years of powerful streams and debris whilst (mostly) running smoothly. But despite this strength, drains aren’t invincible.

It’s not just construction directly on the drains that can cause damage, from a new layer of concrete or falling debris, as even the vibrations from construction equipment alone can displace and damage drains.

Most drains can withstand these vibrations, but areas where there are faults or loose connections are especially susceptible to damage. CCTV drain surveys allow for these issues to be identified in advance, opening the path for repairs or mindfulness from construction crews.

You can find advice and services for a CCTV drain survey Northampton online, from a drain expert such as https://www.wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-northampton/ .

Planning and Approval

If someone asked you to point at the ground at where exactly you think the pipes are – including how deep, or if there’s any overlapping – chances are you’d be stumped. Drain surveys allow for the drains to be mapped with ease, utilising the CCTV footage and a sonar

transmitter to accurately chart the system.

This will also help you when approaching your water company for approval, which is required by law. By knowing the layout beforehand, it’s a lot easier to identify your chances of getting your extension approved. A brief guide can be found here:

Once problems have been identified and assessed, you should be fully prepared to get that extension installed.