The parts of a survey report
Most commercial CCTV drainage reports follow the same structure, whoever carried out the survey. Knowing what each part is for makes a long report quick to use.
- Summary and recommendations – the defects that matter, in order of priority, and what to do about them.
- Drainage plan – the surveyed runs and chambers, with each length numbered so it can be matched to the detail pages.
- Length-by-length sheets – for each run: start and finish chambers, direction, pipe size, material, length surveyed and every observation along it.
- Photographs and footage – a still for each significant observation, with the full video for anyone who needs to see it in context.
- Manhole or chamber records – cover level, depth, invert levels and the connections into each chamber.
Codes and grades
In the UK, drainage surveys are normally coded using the WRc Manual of Sewer Condition Classification (MSCC). Each observation gets a short code, such as a crack, a fracture, a displaced joint, roots, deposits or a connection, and its position in metres from the start of the run.
Defects are then graded, usually from 1 for minor to 5 for the most serious, with separate grades for structural condition (is the pipe failing?) and service condition (is it doing its job, or is it blocked, rooted or silted?). A length with a high structural grade needs repair; a high service grade often needs cleaning or root cutting rather than replacement.
What to act on first
Start with the highest structural grades, especially collapses, deformation and broken pipe, because these get worse and can cause subsidence or flooding. Next look at high service grades on runs that serve critical areas such as kitchens, loading bays and yards. Lower grades are usually monitored or added to a planned maintenance programme.
A good report turns the grades into a short, prioritised list of recommended works. That list is what your facilities team or landlord will work from, so check it covers every high-grade defect and that each one can be found on the plan.
- Collapses, deformation and broken pipe – act now
- Displaced joints and fractures – repair, line or monitor
- Roots, grease and deposits – clean and schedule maintenance
- Minor cracks and joint defects – monitor at the next survey
Using the report
For a purchase or a dilapidations claim, the photographs and grades are the evidence. For maintenance planning, the recommendations become the work list and budget. For design, the plan and chamber records show what is there. Keep the footage as well as the PDF: it lets a repair contractor price the work without a second survey.
Need a drainage survey? Call 0345 548 5451 or email us with your site plan for a fixed quote.
