Mapping Drains (moved from projects)-

[welshcottage]

Hi all

Is their an affordable (yes I understand that word is subjective!) way of mapping drains both location and depth.

We have planning permission for an extension however their is a drain (fresh water definitely not sewerage) which we believe runs into a central point in our garden and then runs through to the next property.

currently we can confirm this so quote for building works a all over the place and the companies quoting are concerned what they may find, which is fair enough, and leads me to the question of mapping below ground etc.

All thoughts and ideas welcome

 

[vinn]

Its reasonably straight forward to map the drains.
Open up the manhole(s)/inspection chambers, and one fixture at a time flush or run and observe where the water goes.
Gullies taking rainwater for instance, might not show at a manhole which would indicate a sump drain.
Your "freshwater" drain on to your neighbour's property sounds like a sump but you would have to open and observe at the neighbour's manhole for confirmation.

Are you on mains drainage or a septic tank?

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

Dye test is the usual method, add dye to a bucket of water and pour down drain/gullies, one at a time and observe where this appears. This will guide you as to what is connected where. CCTV survey can ascertain some information, and sonar drain tracing is another method. Invert levels can be taken from existing inspection chambers/manholes which should give a guide as to depth.

Bear in mind once the drain enters the neighbours property, it likely becomes the responsibility of the Water Company.

 

[KenGMac]

welshcottage, good evening.

One way of Drain / Sewer location is to use [ or hire in ] a "Cat Scan" the device uses radio to locate drains and electric cables Et all

Suggest you check it out? as for depth, as last post from Hugh measure the depth at the manholes then make a judgment call as to depth.

Ken.

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

http://surveyequipment.com/detection-safety/cable-avoidance/