Buying a Home in Geelong? Here’s Why You Should Inspect the Drains First Why CCTV Drain Inspections Should Be Part of Your Pre-Purchase Building & Pest Inspection
- Emily Gowers
- Sep 4
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 5
By Sewer Cure – Drainage Inspection Specialists, Geelong, The Bellarine & The Surf Coast.
When you're buying a new home in Geelong or along the coast, it's easy to get caught up in the big-ticket items: kitchen condition, roof integrity, pest issues, structural safety. But what’s beneath the surface—literally—can cause some of the most expensive headaches for new homeowners.
We’re talking about your sewer and stormwater drainage systems.
At Sewer Cure, we recommend every buyer include a CCTV drain inspection as part of their pre-purchase inspection checklist—because not knowing what's underground can cost you thousands.
What Is a CCTV Drain Inspection?
A CCTV drain inspection uses a specialised waterproof camera system to inspect the internal condition of your sewer and stormwater pipes. This technology allows us to:
● Identify blockages and partial obstructions
● Detect cracked, broken or sagging pipes
● Check for invasive tree root intrusion
● Spot poor-quality plumbing work
● Ensure stormwater pipes are connected properly
● Confirm no backfall or incorrect gradients exist
We provide clear video footage and a professional report to help you make an informed decision before buying.
Hidden Drainage Problems = Expensive Repairs
You’d be surprised how many homes across Geelong—from Newtown to Norlane, Highton to Herne Hill—have major underground plumbing issues that are completely invisible during a standard building inspection.
Here are some real problems we've found during buyer inspections:
Issue | Cost to Repair | Common Cause |
Cracked clay sewer pipe under driveway | $4,000–$6,000 | Old pipe, tree roots |
Stormwater pipe backfalling into house | $2,500–$5,000 | Poor installation |
Blocked sewer due to builder's rubble | $1,500–$3,000 | Negligence during build |
Tree roots in sewer line | $2,000–$3,500 | Unsealed joints or old pipe |
Sewer pipe wrongly connected to stormwate | Up to $10,000 | Non-compliant plumbing |
A CCTV inspection before you buy could save you thousands in future repairs, re-excavation,
and stress..
Why Standard Building & Pest Inspections Don’t Cover It
Building and pest inspectors typically check what they can see and access. That means:
● They’ll look at the taps, toilets, and gutters
● They might run the shower or flush a toilet
● But they won’t send a camera into your underground pipes
● And they won’t identify what's causing slow drains, pooling water or sewer smells
Without a CCTV inspection, you’re buying blind when it comes to the plumbing—and the current owner is off the hook once settlement is complete.
Real Risks for Home Buyers
Without knowing the condition of your drains, you could move into your dream home and find
yourself dealing with:
● Sewage backing up in your showers or toilets
● Stormwater overflowing into your garage or garden
● Emergency excavation of driveways, lawns or paving
● Major disruptions during renovations
● Insurance disputes if damage is pre-existing
● Thousands of dollars in unplanned expenses
What You Get with a Blockage Masters Pre-Purchase Drain Inspection
We’ve helped dozens of Geelong and Melbourne buyers avoid post-settlement disasters by
offering:
● CCTV inspection of sewer and stormwater lines
● HD video footage and clear photos
● A detailed condition report for your conveyancer or building inspector
● On-site verbal feedback for fast decision-making
● Optional drain cleaning or jetting if needed prior to sale
● Peace of mind before you sign the dotted line
We also work with real estate agents, building inspectors and conveyancers to make the
process fast and smooth.
Ideal for Homes in Geelong, Surf Coast & Bellarine Peninsula
Drainage issues are particularly common in areas with older homes or clay pipe systems like:
● East Geelong
● Belmont
● Grovedale
● Corio
● Ocean Grove
● Geelong West
● Lara
Even newer estates like Armstrong Creek and Charlemont can have issues due to builder
defects or rushed installations.
Book a Pre-Purchase CCTV Inspection Today
Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make. Don’t let a hidden drain issue turn it into your biggest regret.
Servicing Geelong, The Surf Coast, and The Bellarine Peninsula.
Before you fall in love with the house, make sure the drains are working.
Book a CCTV inspection with Sewer Cure and buy with confidence.
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