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Plumbing

Camera needed to see in drain out of property?

Anonymous user 16/06/2026 - 8.20 AM

Hi there, I had a small plant growing out of the joint between the main stack and the ‘arm’ taking clean waste water from bathroom (and all apartment) out. The plant has been removed but I am anxious the roots are still there as there have been blockages. Q1. What would a realistic cost be for a camera to be mounted put down that 1.5” pipe to check? The pipe is accessible as the floor has been taken up. Q2. How feasible is it for that ‘arm’ outside the apartment (which I think is plastic) to be replaced which feeds into the main stack, via rope access from roof? - I am on the third floor. Is scaffolding the only way? Thank you for any advice. M

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1 Answer

Flowfix

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Birmingham

Hi, Q1: A CCTV drain inspection for a small pipe like this would usually cost around £120–£250 depending on access and the equipment needed. Because the floor is already open, access should be easier and may help keep the cost lower. Some companies may need a mini camera due to the smaller pipe size. Q2: Replacing the external branch pipe is definitely possible if it’s plastic, but access is the main factor. In most cases, scaffolding is used for safe and proper access on a third floor property, which can cost roughly £500–£1,500 depending on the setup. In some cases a cherry picker may be used if access allows, but rope access is less common for this type of repair. It would be best to have a CCTV survey first to confirm if there is any root damage or cracking before deciding on repair options.

Answered16 June 2026