A typical CCTV drain survey in Ireland costs between €100 and €300 for residential properties, depending on factors like drain length, property size, and any added services like cleaning or reporting.
Commercial properties may start around €300 and go higher, especially for complex drainage systems or detailed documentation.
Want to understand what you’re paying for and why the price varies? You’re in the right place. We’ve been in the business of CCTV drain surveying for years, and we’re here to break it all down for you — clearly, simply, and with no fluff.
What is a CCTV Drain Survey?
Let’s start with the basics. A CCTV drain survey is a non-invasive method to inspect your drainage system using specially designed cameras. These real-time CCTV drain inspections help you pinpoint issues like blockages, cracks, or even damage caused by tree roots.
Rather than digging up the ground, we send a camera into your drainage network and navigate through it to assess the condition of your drains. It’s quick, clean, and incredibly precise.
These surveys are used for a variety of reasons:
- Diagnosing ongoing drainage issues (e.g., foul smells, slow drainage, backups)
- Pre-purchase homebuyer drain surveys
- Checking for structure damages or pipe misalignment
- Insurance or legal claims
- Post-repair verification
CCTV Drain Survey Cost Breakdown – Ireland (Estimated Rates)
| Type of Property / Service | Estimated Cost (€ EUR) |
| Residential (Small Home) | €100 – €150 |
| Residential (Large House / Complex) | €150 – €250 |
| Commercial Property (Small) | €250 – €350 |
| Commercial (Large/Industrial Site) | €350 – €600+ |
| Emergency Call-Out (24/7) | €300 – €500+ |
Why Do CCTV Drain Survey Costs Vary?
While the average cost is €100–€300 for a home, and €300+ for commercial setups, here’s what actually affects the price:
1. Property Size & Drain Length
More property = more drains.
If your home is small with basic plumbing, a survey may only take an hour. If it’s a larger property or has a long drainage system, the survey takes more time — and more time equals more cost.
2. Complexity of the Drainage System
Some properties have a straightforward layout. Others have a tangled mess of old pipes, extensions, and possible collapsed sections. The more complex the layout, the more time and effort it takes to navigate with CCTV cameras.
3. Blocked or Dirty Drains
If your drains are full of silt or there’s a small blockage, the survey might need to be paused until cleaning is done. Some companies offer bundled cleaning and surveying services, while others will charge separately.
4. Type of Survey Required
- Basic survey? Cheaper.
- Need a written report, video files, pipe mapping, or insurance documentation? That adds to the cost.
- Is it a pre-purchase drain survey or for a suspected problem? Those have different scopes and prices.
5. Emergency or Out-of-Hours Call-Outs
A sudden backup at 8 PM on a Sunday? Expect higher charges. Emergency drain surveys typically carry an extra fee, sometimes double the standard rate.
What’s Included in a Standard CCTV Drain Survey?
Most providers in Ireland offer a standard package that includes:
- Initial consultation to understand the drainage problem
- Insertion of a CCTV camera into your drainage network
- Real-time video inspection of your pipework
- Verbal summary or written reports with video footage (if requested)
- Professional recommendations for any blockages, cracks, or further actions
Some even offer a basic fix if it’s just a small blockage.
Signs You Might Need a CCTV Drain Survey
You don’t always need to wait for a big issue. Here are common signs something might be off:
- Persistent foul smells
- Water backing up in sinks or toilets
- Gurgling noises in your drains
- Flooding in your garden or around manholes
- Buying an old property and unsure of drainage system condition
In such cases, CCTV drain inspection can save you time, money, and stress.
Residential vs Commercial Drain Survey Costs
1. Residential Properties
- Average Cost: €100 to €300
- Usually covers 1–2 hours of work
- Ideal for blockage investigation, pre-purchase checks, or peace of mind
- Add-on: Written reports or drain maps may cost €50–€100 extra
2. Commercial Properties
- Starting at €300, can go up to €800+
- More complex systems = longer surveys = more cost
- Reports often needed for compliance or legal documentation
- May require surveys after hours or around working schedules
If you manage a large building, hotel, or industrial site, you’ll need a more detailed drain survey service — and that comes with its own costs.
Is a CCTV Drain Survey Worth It?
Absolutely. Spending a couple of hundred euros now could save you thousands in repairs later. Early detection of drainage problems can prevent:
- Drain collapses
- Water damage to your property
- Pest infestations
- Legal issues during home sales
- Repeat emergency plumbing callouts
It’s also a cost-effective tool for landlords and commercial property owners who need proof of regular maintenance or system health.
Need a Professional Opinion?
Before we wrap up, if you’re experiencing drainage issues or just want a routine check — don’t leave it to chance. Drain Away – CCTV Drain Survey Services is your go-to name for accurate, real-time drain diagnostics anywhere in Ireland.
Book your CCTV drain survey today and get clear answers, fast.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Do Next?
Here’s the bottom line — a CCTV drain survey is not just about finding problems. It’s about giving you peace of mind, knowing your drains are working as they should.
The cost depends on your setup, but the insight you gain is invaluable. If you’ve had recurring blockages, are buying a new home, or just want to stay ahead of the game — it’s worth every euro.
If you are unsure about the cost, request a free, no-obligation quote for your CCTV drain survey. Reach out to Drain Away today!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I get a report for insurance claims?
Yes, we offer written reports and video footage that can be used for insurance or repair claims.
Q: How long does a typical survey take?
Anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on your drainage system.
Q: Can surveys identify tree root damage?
Definitely. CCTV cameras can spot tree roots, cracks, or collapsed pipes with clarity.
Q: Do I need to prep anything?
Just make sure access to manholes or drain covers is clear. The rest is usually taken care of by the technician.
