In the construction industry, time and accuracy matter. When a damaged or outdated sewer or drainage system is overlooked, it can cause delays or structural impacts that may lead to or necessitate costly repairs. Here is where CCTV drainage inspection is so important. CCTV inspection utilises high-resolution cameras to inspect underground pipes and drains without the need for excavation. However, there are times when CCTV inspection is necessary. Let’s take a closer look at the scenarios when this inspection becomes necessary for construction projects.

Pre-Construction Site Assessment

Before construction of a building begins, it is necessary to know what lies beneath the surface. With a service-locating business that can locate all services below ground, the CCTV inspection can ensure that you are aware of the actual position and condition of those buried services. Knowing this before commencing excavation or piling will serve to help project planners avoid damage to those pipe systems. Additionally, knowing there is a structural issue below the ground will enable your team to mitigate future risk and develop a more effective plan.

Reducing Risk and Liability

Poor decisions regarding drainage issues can lead to significant problems, which often involve costly damage to properties, site drainage, and/or building foundations, as well as issues surrounding property negligence and liability that rest with the contractor. Utilizing CCTV inspection companies for evaluation purposes offers an additional layer of protection for construction firms moving forward.

Confirming the Condition of the Drainage System

When conducting a construction project on an older site or redevelopment site, you are likely to encounter outdated or damaged sewer or drainage systems. A CCTV drainage inspection can confirm the condition of these systems before any building methods where heavy machinery or foundations may impact the integrity of the systems. This can be particularly important on urban sites or brownfield sites where the buried drainage is tied into historic infrastructure.

Detecting Obstructions or Collapses

There can be many built-up blockages, roots, and/or collapsed pipes that can stop construction from proceeding. The contractor hired to do the work has no idea if the lines are safe or clear to proceed with the work, or if other works are necessary, or if removal or replacement will be required on their remaining schedule.

Quality Checks after Construction

The equivalent checks performed after new drainage installation can confirm conformity for engineering and compliance purposes. In many cases, local municipalities and regulatory bodies will require appropriate documentation of a CCTV inspection to assure the installed system is aligned, sealed and defect-free. CCTV inspection companies, who are reputable, will provide summaries, with some taking as many photos and/or videos to support the final inspections and handover of the work.

Conclusion

Sewer inspection using CCTV pipe inspection is much more than an inspection system. It is an essential component of your risk management strategy and planning for confirming compliance with the works. The sewer inspection is a necessary tool for evaluating your timelines, ensuring value for your investment, and aligning with proper service locating. Ensuring the municipal systems' underground do not disadvantage your client or the taxpayer.