Find and check a drainage contractor

Explain why you want the survey, what report you need and when you need it. Mention any known blockages or difficult-to-access inspection covers.

Use the same printable checklist with each firm so you can compare the answers.

1. Area. Does the firm cover your location? Are travel or parking charges extra?
2. Experience. Who will inspect the drains and write the report? Have they done this type of survey before?
3. Insurance. Ask for current cover appropriate to the work.
4. Sample report. Ask to see one with the customer’s details removed. Can you understand the findings?
5. Total price. Check VAT, the report and video, access limits and charges for extra work.
6. Terms. Check cancellation arrangements, the report delivery date and who to contact about a problem.

Check a membership or accreditation claim with the organisation that issued it. A directory listing does not tell you whether the firm can meet your particular requirements.

If substantial repairs are recommended, ask to see the findings and consider another opinion before agreeing to the work. Do not give open-ended permission for extras.

• The pipes and access points included in the inspection.
• The report, video, photographs and any drain plan you will receive.
• What happens if access is blocked or the inspection cannot be completed.
• How you will approve any extra work and its cost.
• The total including VAT, plus the appointment and report delivery dates.

You contact and book the contractor directly. Blue Canvas does not arrange appointments or guarantee a firm’s work.