Homebuyer Drainage Survey in Macclesfield
CCTV homebuyer drainage survey carried out at a residential property in Macclesfield, Cheshire, following a recommendation within the client’s RICS survey.
The client needed a clear understanding of the foul and surface water drainage systems before progressing with the purchase, particularly due to concerns around nearby trees and the potential risk of root ingress. We completed the survey and turned the report around within approximately 24 hours, allowing the findings to be shared with the client’s tree surveyor.
Location: Macclesfield, Cheshire
Service: Homebuyer Drain Survey
Overview
We were instructed to carry out a homebuyer drainage survey in Macclesfield after the client’s RICS survey recommended further investigation into the condition of the drainage system.
The property had a number of trees nearby, which raised additional concerns about the drainage routes and the potential for root ingress. Tree roots can enter drainage systems through defective joints, cracks or displaced sections, and over time they can restrict flow, worsen structural defects and increase the risk of blockages.
The client required a full inspection of both the foul water and surface water drainage systems to understand the general condition of the network and provide evidence for the tree surveyor.
Given the time-sensitive nature of the property purchase, we completed the drainage report within approximately 24 hours of the site visit.
What we did
The survey included both the foul and surface water drainage systems, allowing us to assess the general condition of the network and identify any defects or areas requiring remedial works.
Our inspection included:
Surveying the accessible foul water drainage system
Surveying the accessible surface water drainage system
Confirming the drainage layout and routes across the property
Assessing the condition of the pipework
Identifying defects linked to root ingress and structural deterioration
Providing evidence to support the client and tree surveyor
Producing a homebuyer drainage survey report within approximately 24 hours
The inspection confirmed that the property is served by separate foul and surface water drainage systems, with the two systems combining as the drainage leaves the property.
Outcome
The drainage system was found to be generally in good condition overall. However, notable defects were identified on one section of drainage, where significant root ingress was present along the length of the line.
Root intrusion can restrict flow and, if left untreated, may lead to further deterioration or blockage of the drainage system. Given the wider concerns around trees and drainage routes at the property, this was an important finding for both the buyer and the tree surveyor.
Another drainage line leaving the property was also showing signs of deterioration. While no immediate remedial works were recommended for this section at the time of the survey, we advised that it should be monitored for any further deterioration, with future investigation or remedial works considered if the condition worsens.
For the affected section with root ingress, we recommended:
Internal root removal
High-pressure water jetting to clean and clear the pipework
Structural patch lining of the affected section to restore integrity
Ongoing monitoring where deterioration was noted but not yet critical
This project is a strong example of why a pre-purchase drain survey can be valuable before completing a property purchase. Even when a drainage system is generally serviceable, a CCTV survey can identify specific hidden issues such as root ingress, structural deterioration or future blockage risks.
By completing the report quickly, the client had the evidence needed to share with their tree surveyor and make informed decisions before progressing further with the purchase.
Location
This homebuyer drainage survey was carried out at a residential property in Macclesfield, Cheshire, following a recommendation within the client’s RICS survey.
We regularly undertake CCTV drainage surveys for homebuyers across Macclesfield, Prestbury, Bollington, Tytherington, Poynton, Wilmslow, Congleton and the wider Cheshire area, helping buyers identify hidden drainage defects before exchange of contracts, including root ingress, structural deterioration, displaced joints and other issues that may not be visible above ground.
Related services
Related services:
Helpful Homebuyer guidance
Need Homebuyer Drain Survey?
Get a fast, reliable drainage report from an experienced team.