Video Inspection of Main Vertical Drain Pipes for Rehabilitation

Video Inspection of Main Vertical Drain Pipes – Technical Diagnostics for Rehabilitation

Video inspection of main vertical drain pipes (vertical drain stacks) is an essential step when there are leaks, infiltrations, odors or signs of wear within a building’s drainage system.
However, not all inspections are the same — and when the objective is rehabilitation, the quality and depth of the inspection are critical.

At REVIPOX, we carry out video inspections specifically focused on the rehabilitation of main vertical drain pipes, using high-definition cameras, rotating heads, and technical reports. This allows us to decide with confidence whether rehabilitation is feasible, which method is suitable, and how far the intervention should extend.

Why inspection of main vertical drain pipes is different from a standard inspection

A basic inspection is often limited to locating a blockage or confirming an obvious rupture.
When the inspection is carried out for rehabilitation purposes, the goal is different:

• assess the real condition of the internal pipe wall

• identify fine cracks, micro-leaks and progressive deterioration

• detect steps, misalignments or ovalisation

• confirm whether the vertical drain pipe is technically suitable for epoxy or CIPP rehabilitation

Without this level of detail, any rehabilitation decision becomes incomplete and potentially risky.

The importance of rotating camera heads in vertical drain pipes

Main vertical drain pipes include branch connections, bends and critical transition areas where many defects are not visible with a fixed axial camera.

For this reason, we use 360º rotating camera heads, which allow us to:

• inspect lateral branch connections

• examine joints and direction changes

• observe areas that an axial camera cannot capture

• verify continuity of the pipe across multiple floors

In older buildings, this capability is often decisive for identifying inter-floor leaks and hidden infiltrations.

Why image quality is critical for rehabilitation planning

When planning rehabilitation, it is not enough to confirm that the pipe is unobstructed.
It is essential to understand its actual internal condition.

With high-definition imaging, we can:

• detect cracks before they develop into visible leaks

• evaluate internal corrosion or material erosion

• distinguish surface deposits from structural defects

• decide between continuous rehabilitation, localized repair, or partial replacement

Low-resolution or outdated camera systems often conceal problems that only become evident after works begin — when correction is far more complex and costly.

Technical reports designed for rehabilitation decisions

Our inspections of main vertical drain pipes are supported by technical reports, including:

• full HD video recordings

• images of critical areas

• precise height and position of defects

• technical assessment of the pipe condition

• recommendation of the most appropriate rehabilitation solution

When required, reports follow EN 13508-2 and are compatible with professional inspection software (e.g. WinCan).

Can other inspection methods be used? When yes — and when not

When a basic inspection may be sufficient

• confirmation of blockages

• quick continuity checks

• preventive inspections without immediate rehabilitation planned

When it is not sufficient

• planning epoxy rehabilitation of vertical drain pipes

• deciding on CIPP lining for main stacks

• persistent leaks between floors

• recurring failures without visible cause

• technical assessments for condominiums or insurance cases

In these situations, generic inspections often lead to incorrect conclusions or incomplete solutions.

When should you request a video inspection of the main vertical drain pipe?

• leaks or infiltrations between apartments

• persistent odors affecting several floors

• ageing drainage systems (1960s–1990s)

• planned renovation or refurbishment works

• recurring problems with no visible cause

• evaluation prior to trenchless rehabilitation

A detailed inspection prevents errors, unnecessary demolition and future failures.

Video inspection focused on rehabilitation — not just visual confirmation

At REVIPOX, video inspection of main vertical drain pipes is not a standalone service.
It is an integral part of a structured diagnostic process for trenchless rehabilitation.

Our objective is simple:
to provide clear, reliable technical information so the correct decision can be made, without opening walls or bathrooms unless it is truly necessary.