Need Advice on Manhole Cover

[CluelessHomeOwner]

Hi everyone,

I’m in the process of purchasing a property, and I noticed this manhole cover in the back garden, set under some decking near the house (see attached photos). The cement around the cover is cracked, with some bits even crumbling away, and there’s a bit of vegetation growing through the cracks.

I’ve got a few questions and would really appreciate any advice:

1. What is this likely to be? Is it an access point for drainage/sewage, or could it serve another purpose?
2. Are the cracks in the cement something to be concerned about? Is this just normal wear and tear, or could it indicate a bigger issue (e.g., poor drainage or ground movement)?
3. Should I get this repaired? If so, what’s the best approach—patching it up, re-laying the cement, or something else?
4. Ingress water in the cover holes: I’ve noticed water sitting in the small holes on the manhole cover—could this just be rainwater, or is it something that needs investigating further?

I want to make sure everything is in good shape before moving in and avoid any future problems. Any advice on next steps or how to handle this would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Stuckinarut]

It's the manhole access for your drains and could have neighboring properties attached. The water in the small holes is likely to be surface/rain water. The vegetation is weeds. The cracks/crumbling might have been when the decking was put in, probably best to have it repaired, but probably not urgent.