Water Utility CCTV Surveys
for Effective Leak Detection & Condition Assessment
Maintaining the integrity of complex water distribution networks is paramount for UK water utilities. Undetected leaks and pipe defects lead to significant water loss, service disruptions, potential contamination, and increased operational costs. Pipe Testing Services (PTS) provides specialised Water Utility CCTV Surveys designed to accurately identify leaks, assess pipeline conditions, and provide actionable data for proactive maintenance.
Benefits of PTS CCTV Surveys for Water Networks
Leveraging state-of-the-art technology and experienced technicians, PTS’s CCTV surveys offer significant advantages:
Accurate Leak & Defect Identification: High-resolution cameras navigate pipelines, providing clear visual evidence to precisely locate leaks, infiltration points, cracks, collapses, joint issues, and obstructions.
Non-Destructive Inspection: CCTV surveys offer a non-invasive method to assess internal pipe conditions without requiring costly and disruptive excavation.
Visual Evidence for Decision Making: Detailed video footage and comprehensive reports provide invaluable documentation for planning targeted repairs, rehabilitation, or cleaning strategies.
Proactive Asset Management: Regular CCTV surveys allow utilities to move from reactive repairs to proactive maintenance, identifying potential issues early, prioritising works, and extending asset lifespan.
Cost-Effective Targeting: By pinpointing the exact location and nature of problems, CCTV surveys minimise guesswork, reducing unnecessary excavation and ensuring repair efforts are focused and efficient.
The PTS CCTV Survey Process
Our structured approach ensures thorough inspection and reliable data collection:
- Planning & Preparation: We collaborate with you to identify target survey locations, review existing network maps, and plan safe access via manholes, chambers, or other suitable points. Site-specific risk assessments are conducted.
- Equipment Setup: Our mobile survey units arrive equipped with advanced robotic crawlers, high-definition pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, powerful lighting systems, and sonde transmitters for precise location tracking.
- Pipeline Inspection: Certified technicians carefully deploy the crawler and camera system into the pipeline, navigating the pipe while recording high-quality video footage. Pipe material, diameter, and other relevant details are logged.
- Data Collection & Logging: Continuous video is recorded digitally. Technicians meticulously log observations in real-time using industry-standard coding (e.g., OS19X/OS21X via WinCan software), noting leaks, defects, structural condition, service connections, and other features.
- Data Analysis: Experienced analysts review the collected footage and logged data to verify findings, classify defects, and assess the overall condition of the surveyed pipeline sections.
- Comprehensive Reporting: PTS delivers detailed reports including video evidence (digital format), defect summaries, pipeline condition grades, precise locations of significant issues (including leaks), and clear recommendations for remedial actions.
Enhancing Surveys with Advanced Techniques
Where appropriate, PTS integrates complementary technologies alongside CCTV for enhanced diagnostics:
Sonar/Acoustic Profiling
In submerged or heavily silted pipes where visual inspection is limited, sonar or acoustic sensors can provide data on pipe profile and debris levels.
Laser Profiling
Creates precise 3D models of the pipe interior, allowing for detailed measurement of deformation, corrosion, or wear that might indicate potential weaknesses or leak points.
Sonde Location
Built-in transmitters (sondes) in the camera head allow surface Pipelocators to precisely track the camera’s position and depth underground, essential for accurate mapping of defects and leaks.
Understanding CCTV Survey Costs for Utilities
The cost of water utility CCTV survey services in the UK depends on factors like:
- Pipeline Diameter & Length: Larger pipes and longer survey lengths require more time and potentially larger equipment.
- Accessibility & Site Conditions: Ease of access to manholes/chambers and site complexity influences setup time.
- Level of Cleaning Required: Heavily silted pipes may require prior jetting/cleaning (which PTS can also arrange/provide) for effective inspection.
- Reporting Requirements: The level of detail, data processing, and analysis required affects the overall cost.
PTS provides tailored, cost-effective solutions. Following an initial consultation to understand your specific requirements (e.g., survey scope, pipe details, objectives), we provide a clear, itemised quote. Contact us to discuss your project.
Why Choose PTS for Water Utility CCTV Surveys?
Selecting PTS ensures you partner with a provider committed to quality, accuracy, and service:
Specialist Expertise: We have a proven track record conducting CCTV surveys specifically within water utility networks across the UK. Our technicians are certified (e.g., OS19X/OS21X) and understand the unique challenges involved.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: We utilise advanced, reliable CCTV crawler systems suitable for various pipe diameters and materials, ensuring high-quality footage and data.
Comprehensive & Clear Reporting: Our reports are detailed, easy to understand, and provide actionable insights using industry-standard formats (e.g., WinCan) to support your asset management decisions.
Safety Focused: All operations are conducted following stringent health and safety protocols.
Nationwide Service: We deliver consistent, high-quality CCTV survey services throughout England, Scotland, Wales.
Regulatory Compliance and Industry Standards
PTS conducts all CCTV surveys in accordance with relevant UK regulations and best practices, including standards referenced by the Water Industry Act, Ofwat, DWI, WIS, UKWIR, and WRc. Our reporting formats (e.g., MSCC Sewer Condition Classification) align with industry requirements, ensuring the data is suitable for regulatory reporting and asset management systems.
By adhering to these regulations and industry standards, water utilities can ensure compliance, maintain public trust, and operate their distribution networks efficiently and responsibly. At PTS, no matter the job, we adhere to all necessary regulations and standards.
CCTV Surveys: A Key Part of Leak Detection & Maintenance
While CCTV provides invaluable visual data for confirming leaks and assessing pipe conditions, it’s one component of a comprehensive strategy. PTS integrates CCTV findings with data from other leak detection services (such as acoustic surveys, correlation, and pressure testing) to provide a complete picture of network integrity.
Contact PTS for Professional Water Utility CCTV Survey Services
Ensure the integrity and efficiency of your water network. Partner with PTS for expert CCTV surveys that deliver clear insights for effective leak detection and proactive pipeline maintenance.
To discuss your specific CCTV survey requirements, schedule a project, or request a quote, please contact our specialist team:
Phone – 01922 451646
Email – enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk
Address – Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ
We are committed to providing reliable, accurate, and cost-effective CCTV survey solutions tailored to the needs of UK water utilities.