Drain Survey Before Buying a House

Getting a drain survey before buying a house is one of the smartest investments you can make during the conveyancing process. Hidden drainage problems are common in UK properties, especially older homes, and discovering them after you've exchanged contracts can be devastating.

What to Look For

• Properties over 30 years old are higher risk
• Houses with large trees near drain runs
• Properties that have had extensions or alterations
• Any signs of damp at ground level during viewings
• Previous drainage problems mentioned in property searches
• Properties in areas with clay soil or known subsidence

How We Diagnose the Problem

A pre-purchase drain survey uses CCTV cameras to inspect all accessible drain runs. We produce a report that your solicitor can use in the conveyancing process, clearly flagging any defects that could affect the property's value or require future repair.

How We Fix It

If problems are found, you have options: negotiate a price reduction, ask the seller to repair before completion, factor repair costs into your offer, or in serious cases, reconsider the purchase. Our report gives you the information to make an informed decision.