What Happens During a CCTV Drain Inspection?

A CCTV drain inspection is one of the most effective ways to work out what is happening inside a drainage system without relying on guesswork.

If a drain keeps blocking, water is slow to clear, or the cause of the problem is not immediately obvious, a drain camera can help identify the issue and guide the most appropriate next step.

What Is a CCTV Drain Inspection?

A CCTV drain inspection uses a specialised camera that is fed through the drainage pipework.

The camera provides a live view inside the drain, allowing the plumber to see areas that would otherwise be hidden underground or behind walls.

This can help identify problems such as:

• Tree root intrusion

• Cracked or damaged pipes

• Collapsed or displaced sections

• Grease and waste build-up

• Foreign objects

• Recurring blockage points

• General deterioration within the pipework

When Might a CCTV Drain Inspection Be Recommended?

A drain camera inspection may be useful when:

• A blockage keeps returning

• Several fixtures are affected at the same time

• There is ongoing slow drainage

• Water is backing up into sinks, showers or toilets

• Tree roots are suspected

• The cause of a drainage issue is unclear

• There may be damage to underground pipework

It can also be helpful before larger repair work, as it allows the plumber to better understand the condition of the drain before recommending a solution.

What Happens During the Inspection?

The process is generally straightforward.

First, the plumber will assess the drainage issue and identify the most suitable access point.

The CCTV camera is then fed into the drain and moved through the pipework while the plumber monitors the live footage.

As the camera travels through the drain, it can reveal where the problem is located and what may be causing it.

Depending on the issue, the inspection may identify a simple blockage or a more significant problem such as damaged pipework or root intrusion.

Does a CCTV Drain Inspection Require Digging?

In many cases, no.

One of the main benefits of a CCTV drain inspection is that it allows the inside of the pipework to be inspected without immediately excavating the area.

If damage is later found that requires repair, excavation may still be necessary depending on the location and type of problem. However, the camera inspection helps ensure any further work is based on what is actually happening inside the drain.

What Can Happen After the Inspection?

Once the cause of the problem has been identified, the plumber can explain what has been found and recommend the most appropriate next step.

This may include:

• Professional drain clearing

• Removing tree-root intrusion

• Repairing damaged pipework

• Replacing a deteriorated section of drain

• Further investigation where required

• Advice to help reduce the risk of recurring blockages

The inspection helps avoid repeatedly treating the symptoms without addressing the underlying cause.

Why Are CCTV Drain Inspections Useful for Recurring Blockages?

If a drain becomes blocked repeatedly, simply clearing it each time may only provide temporary relief.

A recurring blockage can sometimes indicate a deeper issue within the drainage system.

By looking inside the drain, a CCTV inspection can help determine whether the problem is being caused by build-up, damaged pipework, roots, displaced joints or another obstruction.

This makes it easier to recommend a longer-term solution rather than continuing to deal with

the same blockage over and over again.

CCTV Drain Inspections Across Adelaide’s Southern Suburbs

Onboard Plumbing & Gas provides blocked-drain services and CCTV drain inspections across Adelaide’s southern suburbs.

Based in Seaford, Luke services areas including Seaford, Aldinga, Moana, Christies Beach, Port Noarlunga, Noarlunga, Morphett Vale, Woodcroft, Happy Valley, Reynella and surrounding suburbs.

If your drain keeps blocking or the cause of a drainage problem is unclear, a CCTV inspection may help identify what is happening inside the pipework.

Call Onboard Plumbing & Gas on 0403 513 795 or get in touch online to arrange an inspection.