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Collapsed drains are a property owner’s nightmare, causing inconvenient and potentially disastrous complications if not addressed promptly. Whether you own a residential or commercial property, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of a collapsed drain, what causes it, and most importantly, the cost of repairing or replacing it.
In this blog post, we’ll delve into this issue, helping you make an informed decision about how best to tackle this common drainage problem.
What is a collapsed drain?
A collapsed drain is an underground pipe that has become damaged to the point where it can no longer function correctly. This can create blockages, leakage of wastewater, and potentially even undermine the stability of the ground above it. In severe cases, this can lead to localised flooding, structural damage to your property, and a range of health hazards.
What causes a drain to collapse?
There are several factors that can contribute to a drain collapsing, including:
- Age: Old clay or cast iron pipes can deteriorate over time, becoming more susceptible to damage.
- Ground movement: Shifting soil or heavy traffic above ground can place additional pressure on the drain, causing a collapse.
- Corrosion: Chemicals in the wastewater can corrode pipes over time, weakening their structural integrity.
- Tree root ingress: Tree roots can infiltrate through small cracks in the pipe and expand, causing collapse.
How to tell if you have a collapsed drain?
One of the primary issues associated with collapsed drains is that you may not always be aware of any problems. However, you will soon begin to observe indications of a drain collapse.
Here are some telling signs that you may have a collapsed drain:
- Unpleasant odours around your property
- Slow-draining sinks or toilets
- Toilet water rising higher than usual after flushing
- Gurgling noises from your drains
- Damp or subsiding ground near the drain
In some instances, these signs can be down to a blocked drain that is being obstructed by something other than collapsed parts of the pipework.
To determine whether clogged drains are due to a build up of materials or a drain line breakage, it’s essential to get a professional inspection as soon as possible and schedule in a drain repair to prevent further damage.
The first step a drain specialist will take to identify the issue will be a CCTV drain survey. CCTV drain surveys are paramount in collapsed drain repairs as they can conclusively show where the drain has collapsed and the impact that it is having on the rest of the pipe network.
How much does it cost to repair a collapsed drain?
When it comes to drain repairs, the first thing most people want to find out are the drain repair costs. Like most other issues affecting drains and drain lines, the price can vary according to the extent of the damage and any other damage that may have occurred as a result of the collapsed drain.
The cost to repair a collapsed drain can vary significantly based on several factors, including the extent of damage, access to the affected area, and any required remediation work.
As mentioned earlier, the first step will often be a CCTV survey. Some companies may offer this as part of the cost to repair or replace the drain pipes. If not, you can expect to pay on average £275 for a CCTV drain survey.
Collapsed drain repair cost
There are multiple methods to address a collapsed drain, each with its own associated cost:
- Drain patch repair: This involves installing a small, flexible patch within the damaged area of the pipe. This is typically the most cost-effective solution, suitable for minor damage with costs starting at around £100.
- Pipe relining: For more extensive damage, the entire pipe can be relined with a resin-impregnated liner. This can be more expensive than patch repair but offers a longer-lasting solution, with prices starting around £850.
- Excavation and replacement: In the most severe cases, excavation and complete replacement of the pipe may be necessary. This is the most expensive option, with costs ranging from £1,500 to upwards of £5,000, depending on the extent of work required.
A drain repair company will often calculate the collapsed drain repair costs based on how much of the drain pipe or drain line has collapsed, meaning that figures given above can vary significantly.
On a “per metre” basis, you should expect to pay between £75 to £115 for a collapsed drain repair and between £300 to £770 for a collapsed drain excavation replacement.
This is obviously a significant cost, so it will be worth contacting a few drainage companies and trying to get a free quote wherever possible.
FAQ
How can I prevent a drain collapse?
Regular maintenance and inspection of your drainage system can help identify any potential issues before they become more severe. Avoid flushing materials that can cause blockages and plant trees away from your drainage line to minimise the risk of root intrusion.
Will my insurance cover the cost of collapsed drain repairs?
It depends on your insurance policy and the cause of the collapse. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to see if you’re covered for this type of issue.
How long does it take to repair a collapsed drain?
The time taken to repair a collapsed drain will depend on the extent of damage and the chosen repair method. In some cases, repairs can be completed within a day, while more extensive work may take several days to complete.
Can I use drain rods to try and determine the location of the collapsed drain?
No, it is not recommended to use drain rods to try and locate a collapsed drain. This can cause further damage to the already weakened pipe and may not accurately determine the exact location of the collapse. It is best to leave any inspections and repairs to professional drainage specialists.
However, you can use drain rods for regular maintenance and clearing blockages in your drains. Just be sure to exercise caution and not rod too aggressively as this may lead to cracked drains.
Conclusion
A collapsed drain can cause significant damage and inconvenience if left untreated. It’s important to address any signs of a collapsed drain promptly by seeking professional help and getting a CCTV survey done to accurately diagnose the issue. While the cost of repairing a collapsed drain can vary, regular maintenance and proper care of your drainage system can help prevent such issues from occurring in the future. If you do experience a collapsed drain, be sure to reach out to several drainage companies for quotes and choose the best option for your specific situation.
Need emergency assistance for your collapsed drains?
If you suspect that you might be dealing with a collapsed drain, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Any Drains Direct. With years of experience under our belt, we provide free quotes and a complimentary CCTV survey with our collapsed drain services.
We understand your needs and aim to offer the most competitive rates in the market. Plus, all of our work comes with a satisfaction guarantee. Don’t let a collapsed drain disrupt your day – Get in touch with us today and allow our expertise to guide you towards a smooth and seamless solution.