A drainage specialist handles all aspects of drainage systems - from unblocking drains and CCTV drain surveys, to installing new below-ground drainage for building projects and designing soakaways for surface water disposal. On construction projects a drainage specialist works closely with the groundworker and Building Control to ensure foul and surface water drainage is installed to the correct gradients, pipe specifications and connection points. They also handle drain repair using techniques such as drain lining (no-dig repair), cutting out and replacing damaged sections, and resolving root ingress and collapsed pipes.
What they do
- CCTV drain surveys and condition reports
- Drain clearance - high-pressure water jetting
- New below-ground drainage installation
- Drain lining and no-dig repair
- Soakaway design and installation
- Rainwater harvesting system connection
- Interceptor and grease trap installation
- Section 106 sewer connection applications
When you need one
A drainage specialist is needed for any significant drainage problem, new drainage installation or pre-purchase drain survey.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Drain clearance (high-pressure jetting) | £80 - £200 |
| CCTV drain survey (domestic) | £150 - £400 |
| Drain lining (no-dig repair, per metre) | £150 - £300/m |
| Drain excavation and repair | £500 - £2,500 |
| New drainage run installation (per metre) | £50 - £120/m |
| Soakaway installation | £500 - £2,000 |
Call-out charges and minimum fees apply for clearance work - check these before booking. CCTV surveys always provide better value than emergency call-outs for recurring problems - the survey identifies the root cause.
Qualifications to look for
NADC member companies are assessed for technical competence in drainage installation, repair and maintenance. Find a member at nadc.co.uk.
Drain lining products and installers may hold WRC approval, confirming that materials and installation methods meet the required performance standards for sewer rehabilitation.
How to find a reputable drainage specialist
Frequently asked questions
What does a CCTV drain survey involve?
A CCTV drain survey involves inserting a camera into the drainage system to inspect the condition of the pipes. The camera records video footage that is reviewed to identify blockages, cracking, root ingress, collapsed sections, displaced joints and incorrect gradients. A written report with video evidence is usually provided. Surveys are commonly required before buying a property or when investigating recurring drainage problems.
Who is responsible for drains - me or the water company?
Private drains within your property boundary are your responsibility. Shared drains used by more than one property, and public sewers, are the responsibility of the water company (your local sewerage undertaker). Since 2011, most shared private sewers were transferred to water company ownership. If a blockage or collapse is in a public sewer, contact your water company rather than a private contractor.
Can I connect to the public sewer myself?
You must apply to your water company for permission (a Section 106 approval) before making any new connection to a public sewer. The water company may inspect the work. For new building work, the Building Control officer will inspect below-ground drainage before it is covered over. A drainage specialist or groundworker handles the physical installation but cannot bypass the statutory approval process.