Avoiding Costly Mistakes: How Build Over Surveys Prevent Delays in Construction Projects

Delays in construction projects can result in substantial financial losses, extended timelines and potential damage to professional reputations. One often-overlooked factor contributing to these delays is the absence of a thorough build over drainage survey. In this post, we’ll explore how build over surveys help architects, builders and project managers avoid costly mistakes and keep their construction projects on track.

Common Costly Mistakes Without Build Over Surveys

1. Damaged Sewer Infrastructure: Building near or over public sewers without prior inspection can lead to inadvertent damage. Whether from heavy machinery, poor planning or misaligned structures, this damage can result in significant repair costs, project delays and in some cases, legal consequences if public sewer systems are compromised.

2. Planning Permission Denials: Water authorities require proper assessments of underground drainage systems to ensure building plans meet legal and safety standards. Without a build over survey, your project might not receive the necessary approvals, forcing you to halt construction while retroactively addressing compliance issues.

3. Unexpected Delays: Drainage issues discovered during the construction phase can bring work to a complete standstill. Unmapped pipes, blockages, or unexpected sewer locations can require time-intensive solutions that derail schedules and inflate budgets.

How Build Over Surveys Prevent These Issues

1. Detailed Drainage Mapping: A CCTV drainage survey provides a precise layout of underground drainage systems. This comprehensive mapping allows architects and builders to design projects with confidence, avoiding unintentional interference with existing infrastructure.

2. Proactive Problem Solving: Build over surveys uncover potential drainage issues—such as cracked pipes, blockages, or misaligned sewers—early in the process. Addressing these problems before construction begins saves time, money, and the frustration of mid-project disruptions.

3. Seamless Water Authority Approval: Water authorities often require surveys to ensure construction won’t impact public sewer systems. A compliant build over survey report not only demonstrates due diligence but also expedites the approval process, keeping your project on schedule.

Why Build Over Surveys Are a Smart Investment

Incorporating build over surveys into your project workflow isn’t just a precaution; it’s a proactive step to safeguard your construction projects from unforeseen issues. With Clearflow Surveys, you gain a trusted partner committed to delivering high-quality CCTV drainage surveys and expert advice.

From identifying risks to ensuring regulatory compliance, our team provides the clarity and confidence you need to keep your projects on track and within budget. Don’t let drainage issues derail your progress—contact Clearflow Surveys today to see how we can support your next build.