Which one of these photographs of domestic drains is the odd one out?
Number 4. Of course. An apparently problem free drain. This is what a Chartered Surveyor wants to see when he or she lifts a drainage inspection chamber in somebody’s garden. A nicely constructed brickwork chamber and pipework that is as “clean as a whistle”.
Unfortunately, it is not always the case which is why drains are not the favourite part of our job.
Number 1 is sited next to a Privet hedge and shows the damage a mass of even very fine roots can do.
Number 2 is almost full to overflowing for unknown reasons.
Number 3 has become blocked by what look like nappy liners or wet wipes.
A visual check of the drainage inspection chamber will not confirm other parts of the drainage system are free from defects. There is a risk of problems in concealed areas. These photos may be the tip of the iceberg….. or possibly not.
It is a risk a buyer must accept. If not, they should commission a full check in the form of a CCTV scan from a specialist drainage contractor. As drain repairs are potentially very costly, Shire Surveyors normally recommend a follow up investigation of this nature.
Forewarned is forearmed as they say. And if we have to view these unpleasant sights, so should you!