Manhole Inspection

What a manhole inspection covers

A manhole inspection is designed to quickly narrow down the cause of drainage issues and confirm the system is running as it should.

• Locating and checking the relevant inspection chambers and covers
• Assessing flow and signs of surcharge, backing up, or standing water
• Identifying likely causes, including fat build-up, wipes, silt, or root ingress
• Checking for defects such as displaced joints, cracks, or partial collapse
• Clearing the blockage where possible using appropriate tools and methods
• Testing and confirming that normal drainage has been restored
• Explaining findings clearly and outlining next steps if further work is needed

When this service is the right fit

Book a manhole inspection if you have repeated slow drains, gurgling, bad smells outside, or a manhole that overflows after using appliances. It is also useful if a blockage keeps returning, or if you want clarity on whether the issue sits within your drainage run or further along the line.

What to expect during the visit

The work starts by identifying the most relevant access points and checking flow through the chambers. The manhole is then inspected for obvious restrictions or damage, and the likely blockage location is confirmed by how the line is behaving. If a blockage is found and it is safe to do so, it can often be cleared during the same visit, followed by a simple flow test.

After the inspection: clear actions and options

Once drainage is moving normally, you will be advised on what caused the issue and how to reduce the chance of it happening again. If a defect is identified, you will get practical options for repair, along with the implications of leaving it as-is. Where responsibility may be shared, for example with neighbours or a managing agent, you can be given guidance on what information helps move things forward.