Old Clay Drain Pipes

Many London properties still rely on the original Victorian clay drain pipes installed 80–150 years ago. While clay is durable, these old pipes have vulnerabilities — mortar joints that crack and separate, walls that erode over time, and a brittle nature that doesn't tolerate ground movement.

What to Look For

• Property built before 1960 with original drainage
• Recurring blockages at the same point
• Root ingress through deteriorated mortar joints
• Visible damage at manholes — cracked, chipped clay pipes
• Slow drainage that's gradually worsened over years
• CCTV survey showing joint displacement and erosion

How We Diagnose the Problem

A CCTV survey of old clay pipes typically reveals multiple defects — displaced joints, root ingress, erosion, and often partial collapses. We assess each section and provide a condition rating to prioritise repairs.

How We Fix It

Drain relining is ideal for old clay pipes — the seamless liner seals all joints, covers cracks, and creates a smooth new bore inside the old pipe. For sections that have fully collapsed or are too deformed, targeted excavation replaces just the worst sections while relining handles the rest.