Collapsed Drain
An underground drain pipe that has broken, collapsed, or caved in, causing persistent blockages or sinkholes.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Old clay or pitch fibre pipe deteriorating with age
- 2Ground movement cracking the pipe
- 3Heavy vehicle loading over a shallow drain run
How Urgent Is This?
This needs prompt attention. Delaying could cause further damage, safety risks, or significantly higher repair costs.
What Needs to Be Done
A drainage specialist will CCTV survey to locate the collapse, then excavate and replace the damaged section with modern plastic pipe. Where possible, a no-dig pipe relining method may be used.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £283 – £913 | Materials: £75 – £318
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Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
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Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Have old drainage systems surveyed when buying a property. Avoid driving heavy vehicles over drain runs. Address partial blockages before they lead to full collapse.
Related Problems
Sewage or waste water spilling out of a drain, manhole, or inspection chamber, especially during heavy rain.
An external drain or manhole cover with standing water, overflowing, or draining very slowly.
A strong sewage or rotten-egg smell around the outside of the property, particularly near drains or manholes.
Other Drainage Specialist Problems
An external drain or manhole cover with standing water, overflowing, or draining very slowly.
A strong sewage or rotten-egg smell around the outside of the property, particularly near drains or manholes.
Sewage or waste water spilling out of a drain, manhole, or inspection chamber, especially during heavy rain.
Bath or shower water taking a long time to drain away, sometimes backing up around the plughole.