The Hidden Drainage Issues Behind Derby’s New Build Homes
Buying a new build home should mean peace of mind, low maintenance, and modern standards. Unfortunately, many new homeowners in Derby and Derbyshire discover that their dream property hides unexpected drainage problems. Poor workmanship, rushed construction, and missed inspections can leave new homes with serious underground issues that only become visible months after moving in.
At Derby Drain Surveys, we regularly inspect newly built homes across the Midlands and find recurring drainage faults that developers overlook. These problems not only cause inconvenience but can also lead to costly repairs if left untreated.
Why Drainage Problems Happen in New Builds
New build homes are often constructed quickly to meet demand. Tight deadlines, subcontracted labour, and limited quality control can result in poorly installed drainage systems. Common causes include:
Rubble and construction debris left inside drainage pipes during building work
Improper pipe gradients that prevent wastewater from flowing correctly
Disconnected or misaligned joints due to rushed installation
Insufficient testing or inspection before handover
Substandard materials that do not meet required standards
These defects often go unnoticed until months later, when homeowners start to experience slow drainage, foul odours, or gurgling noises.
Common Signs of New Build Drain Problems
If you have recently moved into a new property in Derby, be alert for early signs of drainage trouble:
Persistent smells from sinks or toilets
Gurgling noises when flushing or draining water
Slow drainage in showers or baths
Surface water pooling in the garden after rain
Damp patches near external walls or drains
These symptoms often indicate blocked, cracked, or poorly connected pipes. The sooner they are inspected, the easier and cheaper they are to fix.
The Real Cost of Ignoring New Build Drain Issues
Many homeowners assume that drainage faults are minor inconveniences. In reality, ignoring them can lead to severe consequences, including:
Structural movement or garden sinkholes caused by collapsed drains
Flooding beneath patios or driveways
Rodent infestations entering through unsealed pipe joints
Warranty disputes with builders due to lack of inspection evidence
Repair bills that exceed £5,000 for excavation and reinstatement
A professional CCTV drain survey identifies these issues early, providing evidence to support NHBC warranty claims or developer rectifications.
Why You Need a CCTV Drain Survey for Your New Build
A CCTV drain survey is the only way to see what is really happening beneath your new property. Our team uses high-definition cameras to inspect every part of your drainage system and record clear, time-stamped footage.
Our survey includes:
Full CCTV inspection of underground drains
Identification of blockages, leaks, and construction debris
HD footage and detailed written report
Recommendations for repair or cleaning
Evidence suitable for warranty or builder claims
If problems are found, we provide clear, independent documentation that you can use to hold the builder accountable or request remedial action.
What Happens During the Survey
Our engineers carry out a thorough inspection without any disruption to your home. The process usually takes between one and two hours, depending on property size. We locate all manholes, inspect each drainage run, and record the findings in real time.
At the end of the survey, you receive:
A full digital video report showing internal pipe conditions
A clear summary of findings with colour-coded defect grading
Practical advice on repair or maintenance options
For new build properties, we also check compliance with Severn Trent Water standards to confirm that the system has been installed correctly.
Professional Treatments for New Build Drain Issues
If our survey identifies defects, we can recommend and carry out professional solutions to restore your system:
High-pressure jet washing to remove construction debris or sediment
Pipe relining to repair cracks or leaks without excavation
Root cutting and clearance if trees have invaded nearby drains
Rodent proofing to stop infestations caused by open joints or broken connections
Our treatments are efficient, affordable, and designed to prevent further damage to your new property.
Why Choose Derby Drain Surveys
With more than 20 years of drainage and construction experience, our local team understands how to identify and resolve hidden problems quickly. We work independently of developers and provide unbiased reports that homeowners can use with confidence.
We are trusted across Derby, Burton, Hilton, and the wider Midlands because we offer:
Professional HD CCTV inspections and detailed written reports
Same-day appointments and fast turnaround
Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
Support for warranty and insurance claims
We treat every survey with care, ensuring you have the facts and solutions you need.
Protect Your Investment and Peace of Mind
A new build home should be worry-free. Do not let hidden drainage faults ruin your experience or cost you thousands in repairs. Book a CCTV drain survey today to ensure your property is exactly as promised by the developer.
Click here to book your Build Over Drain Survey or learn more about our professional CCTV drain inspections for home extensions in Derbyshire.
📍 Based in Derby. Serving Derbyshire, Burton, Hilton, and surrounding Midlands towns.
