Why Drain Surveys Are Essential Before Building a Garden Room or Annex in Derby

Garden rooms, annexes, and outdoor offices are becoming increasingly popular in Derby, Burton, Hilton, and the wider Midlands. They add value, comfort, and space to your property. However, many homeowners overlook one crucial step before construction — checking the existing drainage system. Building near or over drains without inspection can cause serious problems, including structural damage, blockages, or even planning rejections from Severn Trent Water or the local authority.

A CCTV drain survey identifies the location, layout, and condition of your drains, ensuring your new build complies with regulations and avoids costly disruptions.

Common Drainage Problems That Affect Garden Builds

Before construction begins, it is vital to understand potential issues that can impact your project:

  • Cracked or collapsed drains beneath or near the foundation area

  • Tree root intrusion affecting underground pipework

  • Blocked or misaligned joints causing poor drainage

  • Drains too close to proposed structures, risking long-term damage

  • Rodent access points that may lead to infestations once construction begins

Identifying and resolving these problems early ensures that your project remains compliant, safe, and on schedule.

Why a CCTV Drain Survey Is Essential

A CCTV drain survey provides an in-depth look at the condition and position of your underground drainage. This professional inspection ensures that no part of your garden room or annex build interferes with existing drains. Benefits include:

  • Accurate mapping of drain routes and connections

  • HD video footage showing the condition of pipes and joints

  • Clear written reports suitable for planning or building control approval

  • Expert recommendations for treatment or preventive maintenance

This proactive approach prevents expensive delays and ensures your garden build is fully compliant with drainage regulations.


Practitioner-Focused Treatments

Once a survey is complete, the following treatments may be recommended:

  • Pipe Relining to repair cracks or weak spots without excavation

  • Joint Repair to strengthen displaced or misaligned pipe connections

  • Root Removal to eliminate blockages and protect pipe structure

  • Rodent Proofing to prevent entry points that lead to infestations

  • Preventive Maintenance to maintain flow and prevent future issues

Each treatment protects your investment, ensures drainage efficiency, and allows your garden room or annex to be built with confidence.


How Our Derby Team Helps Homeowners

Our professional drainage team works with homeowners, builders, and architects across Derbyshire and the Midlands to complete safe, compliant builds. We provide:

  • HD CCTV drain inspections with mapping and video reports

  • Expert advice on drainage compliance for planning approval

  • Fast callouts and friendly, professional service

  • Comprehensive recommendations for treatment and maintenance

We help prevent unexpected issues that can delay or compromise your garden room or annex construction.

Booking Your Drain Survey

Before starting your garden room or annex project, ensure your drains are inspected and cleared. Book your CCTV drain survey today for expert analysis and actionable advice.


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, Mickleover, and surrounding areas.

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Why Recurring Drain Blockages in Derby Need a Full CCTV Drain Survey

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Why Drainage Checks Are Critical for Period Property Renovations in Derby