When Drain Excavation Is Needed

While no-dig methods like relining have transformed drain repair, there are situations where traditional excavation remains the only viable solution. Understanding when excavation is necessary helps you plan for the cost, timeline, and disruption involved.

What to Look For

• Complete pipe collapse where the bore is fully blocked
• Severely deformed or crushed pipes that can't accept a liner
• Pipe gradient correction — relining can't fix a belly or dip
• Pipe diameter needs increasing for building regulations
• New connections required to the drainage system
• Contaminated ground requiring removal around the pipe

How We Diagnose the Problem

A CCTV survey reveals whether excavation is necessary. If the camera can't pass through a section, it usually indicates a full collapse requiring excavation. We also assess pipe deformation — if ovality exceeds 10%, relining may not be suitable.

How We Fix It

When excavation is needed, we plan the work carefully to minimise disruption. We use machine excavation where possible for speed, hand-dig in sensitive areas, and reinstate all surfaces to their original condition. Excavation comes with a full guarantee on materials and workmanship.