Drainage sections rarely fail and can function freely for long periods of time. When the unmentionable does occur, the results of defective drains can be dramatic.

Drains are only usually inspected when blockages occur or as part of a survey when a property is sold. Even if the house has been sold the drains will only be investigated if the purchaser has requested a more detailed survey, for example a homebuyer’s report or building survey. In these circumstances it is usual that only the manhole covers are lifted.

When the drains fail, effluent may discharge from manhole covers or the system may fully block up. Blockages may also work their way back to the appliances inside the dwelling.

The first necessity, in the event of a blockage, is to have the drainage sections rodded and cleared. The next priority should be to have the system checked, often by remotely controlled camera travelling along the drainage sections, or by pressure testing the system.

Simply clearing the drainage sections may not be enough to solve the problem, and if your drains are blocking regularly, defects rather than stubborn effluent may be the problem. In these circumstances tests are essential. If there is a defect, in most cases it can be repaired under the terms of your household insurance.

Tree roots are the most frequent cause of damage to the drainage sections. The roots can often find a way through old clay pipe junctions and grow when they find water. The roots will then grow creating a potential blockage and damaging pipe-work.

The best method of repair is replacement of the old pipe-work and with PVC equivalent, often cased in concrete. The alternative is to remove the trees or shrubs, and clear the drains of the roots and debris, this is only available if the drainage sections pass the pressure test.

Long-standing leakage of drainage sections can cause structural movement.

Latest posts in Repair Wizard

Covering a fireplace
We've already looked at Removing a fireplace
Removing a fireplace is a good way of liberating a bit of extra floor space in a...
http://www.housewiz.co.uk/repair-wizard/removing-a-fireplace.htm

Curing creaky stairs - working from underneath
We've already looked at how to fix creaky stairs if you don't have access to the...
http://www.housewiz.co.uk/repair-wizard/curing-creaky-stairs-from-underneath.htm

Curing creaky stairs
Creaking stairs are a nuisance and may also be an early sign of wear and tear in...
http://www.housewiz.co.uk/repair-wizard/curing-creaky-stairs.htm