Rat Problems in Sewers

CCTV-led drain investigations to identify and stop rat ingress

Pest control drain survey – from £192 inc. VAT

Rats frequently gain access to properties through damaged or defective drainage systems. Cracked pipes, broken inspection chambers, redundant pipework and open connections can allow rats to travel directly from the sewer network into homes and commercial buildings. At Pest Shield, sewer-related rat problems are investigated using a drain-led, CCTV-based approach to identify entry points and stop rats at the source.

We provide sewer rat investigations across Newcastle, Sunderland, Durham and the wider North East.

Why sewer-related rat problems require CCTV investigation

Where rats are accessing a property via the drains, surface-level control alone rarely provides a lasting solution. Without confirming the condition of the drainage system, defects remain undetected and infestations often return.

Common sewer-related issues include:

• Cracked, fractured or collapsed drain pipes

• Redundant or unused pipework left unsealed

• Broken or poorly benched inspection chambers

• Missing or defective interceptors

• Poorly sealed toilet or soil pipe connections

• Shared drainage defects in terraced or multi-occupancy properties

A CCTV drain inspection allows these problems to be confirmed visually, rather than assumed.

Our inspection-led, CCTV-based approach

All sewer-related rat investigations follow a structured process:

Initial site inspection
We assess the property layout, lift accessible inspection chambers, and review signs of activity consistent with sewer ingress.

CCTV drain inspection
Drainage runs are inspected using camera equipment to identify damage, entry points and structural defects that may allow rat access.

Assessment of responsibility
Where defects are identified, we assess whether responsibility sits with the property owner, neighbouring properties or a water authority.

Clear recommendations
You receive practical advice on corrective actions required to prevent further ingress.

Digital reporting
All findings are documented with electronic reporting, including images, observations and clear next steps.

Solutions for sewer-related rat ingress

Depending on inspection findings, we may recommend:

• Installation of stainless steel non-return valves

• Blocking and sealing of redundant drain lines

• Repairs to inspection chamber benching

• Proofing of gully pots and vent points

• Coordination with drainage contractors

• Evidence provision for Environmental Health or water authorities

• Targeted rodent control alongside corrective works where required

All recommendations are based on confirmed findings rather than guesswork.

Shared drains and neighbouring properties

In older streets and terraced housing, drainage systems are often shared. Sewer-related rat problems may therefore affect multiple properties.

Our reporting can support:

• Communication with neighbours or landlords

• Environmental Health involvement

• Submissions to water authorities

• Clear identification of drain ownership and responsibility

This helps prevent repeated treatments without resolving the underlying issue.

Digital reporting & evidence

Every sewer investigation includes clear electronic reporting, which may include:

• Inspection and CCTV imagery

• Identified defects and ingress points

• Explanation of how rats are accessing the property

• Recommendations for corrective action

• Notes suitable for EHO or third-party review

This provides a clear audit trail and supports informed decision-making.

Pricing

Pest control drain surveys are priced from £192 inc. VAT.

Costs may vary depending on:

• Drain layout and accessibility

• Length and complexity of the drainage runs

• Requirement for additional investigations or installations

Pricing is confirmed following inspection and scope assessment.

Areas we cover

Sewer rat investigations are available across:

• Newcastle upon Tyne

• Sunderland

• Durham

• Gateshead

• Surrounding areas of the North East

Book a Drain Investigation

If rats are suspected of accessing your property via the drains, a CCTV-led inspection is the most effective way to identify the problem and stop it at source.

Call us on 0191 7166647

Contact us online to arrange a CCTV drain inspection

Pest Shield – Inspection-Led Rat Control for Drain & Sewer Ingress Across the North East.