In Australia, the hidden world beneath our feet—our drainage systems—can often be the source of costly headaches for homeowners and businesses alike. While the traditional approach to diagnosing drainage issues typically involved disruptive excavation and guesswork, modern CCTV drain inspection technology has revolutionised the industry, offering a smarter way to resolve plumbing problems.
The Smart Alternative to Blind Digging
Gone are the days when plumbers needed to dig up your garden or driveway based on educated guesses. CCTV drain cameras now allow technicians to navigate through your drainage system, providing crystal-clear footage of what’s happening underground. This non-invasive approach means:
- No unnecessary excavation of your property
- Accurate diagnosis of issues the first time
- Preservation of your landscaping and hardscaping
- Minimal disruption to your daily routin
Precision DiagnosisEquals Efficient Solutions
When it comes to drainage issues, the real cost-saver is knowing exactly what you’re dealing with. CCTV inspections offer unprecedented accuracy by:
- Pinpointing the exact location of blockages
- Identifying the true cause of problems (tree roots, collapsed pipes, built-up debris)
- Determining the condition of your entire drainage system
- Documenting pre-existing issues (particularly useful when purchasing property)
- Landlords and tenants (resolving disputes over drain issues)
Preventative Maintenance: The Ultimate Money-Saver
Perhaps the most significant financial benefit comes from catching minor issues before they become major disasters. Regular CCTV inspections can:
- Identify potential problems before they cause flooding or sewage backups
- Allow for scheduled maintenance rather than emergency repairs
- Help you budget for necessary repairs or replacements
- Extend the lifespan of your drainage system through timely interventions
Real-World Savings
Consider these two scenarios:
Scenario 1: Traditional Methods
A plumber spends 3-4 hours attempting to clear a blockage with a drain machine. Eventually, the drain is cleared, but the problem returns days later, requiring another visit. They resort to excavation, based on guesswork, costing the homeowner thousands in labour and repairs.
Scenario 2: CCTV Drain Camera Inspection
A plumber clears the immediate blockage using a plunger or drain machine, inserts a CCTV drain camera, finding the location and cause within minutes. The footage reveals tree roots, so they use a tree root cutter blade or high-pressure jetter to remove the roots fully, recheck that the drain is clear with the CCTV drain camera and recommend pipe relining to prevent future issues. One visit, problem solved, no excavation. No ongoing blockages to worry about.
The difference in cost? Potentially thousands of dollars—with ongoing blockages and disruption, versus problem solved in a single day’s work.
What to Expect During a CCTV Drain Inspection
When you book a professional CCTV drain inspection, the process typically involves:
- A technician accessing your drainage system via existing access points
- The insertion of a high-resolution waterproof camera mounted on a flexible rod
- Real-time viewing of your drainage system on a monitor
- Recording of footage for later analysis and your records
- A comprehensive report detailing any issues found and recommended solutions
At Lakeside Plumbing & Gas, we leverage cutting-edge CCTV drain inspection technology to provide precise and efficient solutions for all your plumbing needs, saving you time and money while preserving your landscape. Contact us today to schedule your CCTV drain inspection and take the first step towards a hassle-free plumbing experience.