As you’ve grown older, you’ve probably realized there’s a lot more to handle around the house, like a blocked sewer pipe, water suddenly stopping, or non-stop daily maintenance. Most of the time, the real problems aren’t even visible to the eye—like a hidden leak in the drain.
That’s where a CCTV drain inspection service comes in handy. But maybe you’re wondering, “Isn’t the CCTV drain inspection cost too expensive?”
Read on to get a clearer picture of what to expect and how it can help save you from bigger headaches later.
What is CCTV Drain Inspection?
CCTV drain inspection is a modern method used to check the condition of your drains without needing to dig anything up. The plumber will insert a small, high-tech camera into the drain, which sends live footage to a monitor.
This allows plumbers to see exactly what’s going on inside the pipes, whether it’s a blockage, crack, or something else causing trouble. The camera can move through the pipes, giving a clear view of any issues that might not be visible from the surface.
What Can CCTV Drain Inspection Find?
With such advanced technology, the next question is—what exactly can a CCTV drain inspection find? Here are some common issues it can uncover:
1. Roots in Pipes
Tree roots are known to grow into pipes through small cracks or joints, causing blockages and damage. A CCTV drain inspection helps spot these roots before they become a bigger problem.
2. Pipe Cracks
Over time, pipes can crack due to shifting soil or wear and tear. The camera can easily detect these cracks, allowing for quick repairs before they worsen.
3. Blockages
From grease build-up to objects accidentally flushed down, blockages are a common issue in any drainage system. One of the most frequent problems is a blocked stormwater drain, which can lead to serious flooding if not addressed quickly.
A CCTV drain inspection helps pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage, allowing for faster and more effective solutions.
4. Collapsed Pipes
In some cases, sections of pipe may collapse due to pressure or age. The camera will highlight these areas, so the plumber is able to repair or replace it before causing major issues.
Estimated Cost of CCTV Drain Inspection Service
The cost of a CCTV drain inspection can vary depending on the complexity of the job. On average, the drain camera inspection cost typically ranges from $300 to $1500.
Factors such as the length of the pipes, the severity of the issue, and the accessibility of the drains can all influence the final price. For more straightforward inspections, you might pay closer to the lower end, while more complicated cases may push the cost higher.
What Affects the Cost of Drain Inspection?
Several factors impact the plumbing camera inspection cost. Here’s what typically influences the price:
1. The Size of the Property
Larger properties often have more complex pipe systems, which can take longer to inspect. The more pipes there are to check, the higher the plumber camera inspection cost.
2. Complexity
If the drain system is intricate or has severe issues like heavy blockages or collapsed pipes, the inspection process becomes more time-consuming and can increase the overall cost.
3. The Range of the Drain
The longer the drain system, the more ground there is to cover. Extensive systems or those spread across large areas will likely cost more to inspect due to the added time and effort required.
Some plumbing services charge based on the time it takes to complete the inspection, while others offer project-based pricing. It’s worth noting which option fits your needs better. Project-based costs are often cheaper than time-based services, especially if the job takes longer than expected.
How Long Does a CCTV Drainage Survey Usually Take?
A CCTV drainage survey usually takes anywhere from 30 minutes to three hours, depending on the size and complexity of your drainage system. If you’ve got a relatively simple setup, like a small residential property with no major issues, it could be done in about within an hour.
But, if your property is larger or the drainage system is more complicated—say there’s a blockage, tree roots in the pipes, or cracked sections—it’ll naturally take longer.
The time also depends on how accessible your drains are. Sometimes, the plumber might need extra time just to reach certain sections of the pipes.
It’s important to remember that every inspection is different, so there’s no exact timeframe for every job. It’s always a good idea to ask your plumber for an estimate beforehand, just so you’re not caught off guard!
Conclusion
With a professional team, your CCTV drain inspection will be done quickly and efficiently. If keeping costs down is your main concern, Neighbourhood Plumbing is your best option.
We offer experienced, project-based services, ensuring to fix your issue without any surprise charges. Give us a call today and let us handle the rest!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.