CCTV inspection of sewer and wastewater drains

CCTV inspection of sewer pipes and wastewater drains

CCTV inspection of sewer and wastewater pipes is a specialised technical service that allows the internal condition of pipework to be assessed without the need for demolition or invasive works. Through CCTV inspection and internal pipe filming, it is possible to accurately identify problems that are not visible from the outside.

This type of inspection is particularly suitable for sewer stacks, wastewater pipes, vertical stacks (soil stacks), horizontal drainage pipes and shared building networks, allowing a detailed assessment along the entire inspected section.

How CCTV pipe inspection works

The inspection is carried out using professional CCTV equipment, with a camera introduced inside the sewer or wastewater pipe to perform continuous internal filming of the pipework. This process provides a clear and realistic view of the internal surfaces, including areas that are normally inaccessible.

During a CCTV inspection of sewer pipes and stacks, it is possible to identify:

• Cracks and fractures in the pipe

• Displaced, open or degraded joints

• Leaks and loss of watertightness

• Blockages, deposits and accumulated waste

• Root intrusion or foreign objects

• Structural defects in stacks and shared drainage pipes

Accurate technical diagnosis

CCTV filming of sewer and wastewater pipes provides a reliable and objective technical diagnosis, forming the basis for informed decisions regarding cleaning, repair or internal pipe rehabilitation. When required, the inspection can be supported by a technical report, including a detailed description of the anomalies identified and photographic and/or video records.

This diagnostic method helps avoid unnecessary works, allows the exact source of leaks or recurring drainage issues to be located, and supports the selection of the most appropriate technical solution for each situation.

When CCTV inspection of sewer pipes is recommended

CCTV inspection of sewer pipes, wastewater pipes and stacks is recommended in situations such as:

• Recurrent leaks or dampness in buildings

• Frequent blockages with no clear external cause

• Unpleasant odours originating from the drainage system

• Assessment of ageing sewer stacks and vertical pipes

• Preparation for cleaning or internal rehabilitation works

Professional CCTV inspection equipment

All inspections are carried out using Full HD CCTV cameras with rotating heads, allowing detailed and precise observation of the internal condition of sewer pipes and stacks. The rotating camera head enables full internal coverage of the pipe circumference, including joints, lateral connections and critical areas, ensuring a more accurate and reliable diagnosis.

The importance of preventive inspection and timely rehabilitation

It is not necessary to wait until visible problems occur to carry out a CCTV inspection of sewer stacks and wastewater pipes. When the objective is to rehabilitate pipework and extend its service life, assessing the current condition of the infrastructure is essential.

In buildings with 30 years or more, sewer and wastewater systems are often approaching the end of their original design lifespan. When rehabilitation is carried out at the right time, it is possible to extend the usable life of stacks and drainage pipes by a further 30 years, avoiding invasive interventions.

If degradation is allowed to progress to an advanced stage, internal rehabilitation may no longer be technically viable. In such cases, the only remaining option is full pipe replacement, which is typically more expensive, disruptive, time-consuming and intrusive for occupants. CCTV inspection allows early diagnosis, timely planning and controlled intervention, helping to avoid these scenarios.