CCTV Drain Surveys for Pest Control

Inspection-led drain investigations to identify and stop rodent ingress at source

Recurring rat problems are rarely solved at surface level alone. In many cases, rodents are accessing properties through defects within the drainage system — entering unseen and bypassing traditional proofing or baiting measures.

At Pest Shield, our CCTV drain surveys are carried out specifically for pest control purposes, allowing us to identify how rodents are entering a property and recommend targeted, permanent solutions.

Why Drainage Is a Common Source of Rat Activity

Rats are highly adapted to drainage systems and will exploit even minor defects to gain access to buildings. During inspections, we commonly find:

• cracked or displaced pipe joints

• redundant or abandoned drain lines

• damaged benching within inspection chambers

• uncapped or poorly sealed connections

Without identifying these access routes, repeated treatments often address symptoms rather than the cause.

Pest-Focused CCTV Drain Surveys

Unlike general drainage surveys, our CCTV inspections are carried out with rodent behaviour and access routes in mind. This allows us to:

• identify points where rats are entering or exiting the system

• assess whether defects are actively being used by rodents

• distinguish between historic defects and live ingress routes

• gather evidence to support further remedial works

The aim is not simply to record defects, but to establish whether they are relevant to the pest problem being experienced.

What Our Drain Surveys Commonly Identify

Our pest control drain surveys may reveal:

• cracks, gaps or displaced joints used as entry points

• open or redundant branch lines acting as hidden access routes

• collapsed or damaged sections harbouring rodents

• evidence of rodent movement within the system

Findings are documented clearly to support informed decision-making.

Reporting & Evidence

Following the survey, you receive a clear digital report, which may include:

• video footage from the inspection

• still images of identified defects

• written explanation of findings

• recommendations for corrective action

This evidence can be used to support remedial works, third-party involvement or discussions with insurers, landlords or local authorities where relevant.

Corrective Works Following Survey

Where defects are identified and confirmed as relevant to pest ingress, we may recommend corrective measures such as:

• installation of stainless steel non-return valves

• repair or rebuilding of damaged benching within inspection chambers

• sealing or blocking of redundant drain lines

All recommendations are based on survey findings and discussed before any work is undertaken.

When a Pest Control Drain Survey Is Appropriate

A CCTV drain survey may be recommended where:

• rat activity persists despite surface-level control

• no obvious external entry points are identified

• rodents are sighted in kitchens, bathrooms or lower floors

• infestations repeatedly return after treatment

• properties have older or complex drainage systems

In many cases, identifying and addressing drainage access is the key to resolving long-term issues.

Areas We Cover

We carry out pest control CCTV drain surveys across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham, Gateshead and the wider North East for domestic and commercial clients.

Discuss a Pest Control Drain Survey

If you’re experiencing recurring rat problems and suspect drainage may be involved, an inspection allows us to assess whether a CCTV drain survey is appropriate.

Call us on 0191 7166647
Contact us online to request an inspection

Pest Shield – Inspection-Led CCTV Drain Surveys for Pest Control with Clear Digital Reporting Across the North East.