Whether you're starting a new building project, handling repairs, or resolving an ongoing drainage issue, it’s crucial to ensure your drainage system is in excellent condition. Proper checks can help you avoid leaks and comply with environmental regulations. That’s why one of the core services we offer at S&V Drainage Surrey is professional drain testing.
Modern plumbing conceals pipes behind walls, under floors, and even underground, making them easy to forget about. But just because you can’t see your drainage system doesn’t mean you should ignore it. A small, unnoticed leak could quickly develop into a costly and disruptive issue.
Contact usThere are two primary methods we use to identify issues within your drains:
Using air testing, we can quickly and efficiently check pipework for faults. During this process, a section of the pipe is isolated, and a specialised drain test kit measures the air pressure over short time intervals (usually 5 minutes). If the pressure decreases during that time, it indicates a potential problem in the pipe or joints.
While air testing is one of the most reliable ways to identify issues in drainage systems, it does require the ends of the pipe to be sealed off for proper pressure monitoring.
Also known as a “drop test,” this is another low-pressure method used to test drains. Here, a plug is inserted to block a section of pipe, which is then filled with water. We monitor the water levels to detect any drops or changes, which may suggest leaks or damage.
Water testing is commonly used for individual pipes or runs and is an excellent practical option for areas that air testing cannot accommodate. It’s especially useful for ICs and manholes, helping confirm they’re functioning as designed.
Should you require an official drainage test certificate, S&V Drainage Surrey is here to help. We’ll coordinate with construction professionals and building control officers to carry out the appropriate tests.
Our team will ensure that your drainage system passes either an air test or water drop test to certify it is free from leaks. Once the process is complete, you’ll receive the necessary documentation to confirm compliance with building regulations.
If testing is being performed on a completed drainage system, a building control officer must be present to oversee the process. We also recommend pre-testing the drainage system during construction or before the official test to ensure everything is in order.
Before initiating a test, it’s important to visually inspect your pipework for any glaring issues like cracks, blockages, or damage. Additionally, any linked system must be properly drained and left unused for at least two days prior to testing.
Drain testing is typically carried out between two connected maintenance holes. For smaller pipe branches linked to the main run, we perform tests unless they can be separately disassembled for individual checks. Both IC chambers and manholes are subjected to rigorous water tests to ensure they are structurally sound and leak-free.
Whether it’s routine testing, unblocking, repairs, or general maintenance, S&V Drainage Surrey has you covered.
We’ve built a strong reputation for providing reliable, friendly, and skilled service across Surrey. All of our engineers are fully DBS-checked, and our company is trusted by local councils and health authorities.
Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist with any drainage emergencies, ensuring you’re never left stranded in a time of need.
For professional assistance, call S&V Drainage Surrey today or fill out our quick online contact form. One of our friendly staff members will reach out with a free, no-obligation quote.
Contact us