Drainage Planning Tools

Drain observation checklist

Build a useful record of a blockage without opening a chamber or touching wastewater.

Tick the preparations you have completedNote which sinks, toilets or outside gullies are affected, from a clean, safe position.Record when the problem started and whether rain or normal water use coincided with it.Note whether the same problem has happened before and keep any previous report.Ask whether neighbours have noticed a problem; do not enter their land or inspect their drains.Keep children and pets away from affected areas.Find any existing drainage plan or tenancy contact details.

Assumptions and limits

This records observations, not the cause or ownership of a blockage. Do not lift manhole covers, enter chambers or test a blockage by running more water. For sewage backing up or overflowing, use the emergency guide instead of waiting for an enquiry.

Related guidance: Blocked Drains · Outside Drains

CCTV survey brief selector

Choose the reason for a proposed survey to prepare questions for the drainage business.

What are you planning?

Buying a property

Ask for the accessible drainage coverage to be shown on a plan.

Confirm whether video, defect observations and a written report are included.

Ask how inaccessible runs and limitations will be recorded; share any conveyancer requirements.

Recurring blockage

List previous blockages, clearance dates and affected fixtures.

Ask whether clearance is needed before a usable survey.

Ask for the defect location and separate recommendations, rather than assuming excavation is necessary.

Planning building work

Provide the proposed building layout and any existing drainage plans.

Ask how pipe routes, depths and access will be recorded.

Confirm any sewer-owner and building-control requirements independently before work.

Assumptions and limits

This is a survey brief, not confirmation of pipe condition, ownership, planning approval or build-over consent. A survey may have limited access and cannot guarantee every defect will be found.

Related guidance: CCTV Drain Surveys · New Drain Installation

Ready to discuss the work? Choose the relevant drainage service for guidance and enquiry options.

Drainage Planning Tools

Drain observation checklist

Your planning notes

Assumptions and limits

CCTV survey brief selector

Your planning notes

Assumptions and limits