CLEARMASTERS
repair engineers
call-outs
after every visit
and tankers
in drainage
The basics
When does a drain need digging up?
Most damaged drains can be lined without digging. But when a pipe has collapsed, is badly displaced, has sunk or needs moving for an extension, the only proper fix is to dig down and replace it.
Before digging, we trace the drain and check it with CCTV so we only open up what’s needed. If we can avoid digging, drain lining is usually quicker and less disruptive.
We do this work across Surrey, West Sussex, East Sussex, Kent, Hampshire and London, with tankers and engineers in each area most days.
Older pipes are the most likely to need it. Clay cracks, pitch fibre blisters and collapses, and cast iron rusts through.
Common problems
What goes wrong with drains?
A CCTV survey shows us exactly what’s wrong, and that decides whether a pipe can be lined or needs digging up.
Cracks and fractures
Often lined, with no digging.
Displaced joints
Small movement can be lined. Badly displaced joints usually need digging out.
Root ingress
Roots cut out first, then the pipe is usually lined.
Collapse or deformation
Usually needs excavation and a new section of pipe.
On the day
What’s involved
CCTV survey
We find the exact location, depth and extent of the damage.
Careful excavation
We check for services, protect the area and dig down to the pipe safely.
Replace the pipe
The damaged section is cut out and replaced with new pipe and joints, laid to the right fall.
Backfill, reinstate and check
We backfill, reinstate the surface and run a final camera check.
Why act
The risks of leaving a damaged drain
A broken drain rarely fixes itself. Waste leaks into the ground, roots find their way in and the damage spreads.
Left long enough, a leaking drain can wash away the ground beneath paths, patios and even foundations, and attract rats.
Signs of a damaged drain
- Repeat blockages in the same place
- Bad smells outside
- Damp patches, sinking ground or subsidence
- Rats around the property
- Slow drains throughout the house
Why Clearmasters
Why choose Clearmasters?
We only dig when we have to. Our survey tells us whether lining will do the job, and if it won’t, we’ll dig out and replace your drain with the least disruption we can.
Ask us a questionAlways on hand
Planned servicing at a time that suits you, and 24/7 call-outs when something goes wrong.
Straight answers
We explain what we found in plain English, and give you honest advice on what needs doing now and what can wait.
Trained engineers
Our engineers hold current confined space entry certificates and work on treatment plants, pump stations and drainage every day.
We tidy up after ourselves
We reinstate your ground and leave the site clean.
What our customers say
Checkatrade
From 134 reviews · Read them
From 63 reviews · Read them
Scores as of September 2026
Questions answered
Drain excavation FAQs
When is excavation necessary?
When a pipe has collapsed, is badly displaced or deformed, has sunk, or needs moving or rerouting. Cracks and root damage can usually be lined instead.
How long does it take?
It depends on the depth, length and surface. A short domestic repair can be done in a day or two. We’ll give you a timescale with your quote.
Will you put my garden or drive back?
Yes. We reinstate paving, tarmac, concrete and lawn when the work is finished.
Is it safe to dig near other services?
We check for gas, water, electricity and telecoms before we dig, and work carefully around them.
Are there alternatives to digging?
Often, yes. Drain lining repairs many damaged pipes without excavation. A CCTV survey tells us which is right.
Got a different question? Call 03333 233566 or send us a message.
Related services
Fully accredited & compliant
We're independently vetted and certified so you can trust who you're letting onto your site.
SafeContractor
Health & safety pre-qualification accreditation, verifying our processes meet recognised safety standards.
RISQS
Railway Industry Supplier Qualification Scheme — approved to work safely within the rail industry supply chain.
Achilles UVDB
Utilities Vetting Database membership, confirming we meet the utilities sector's supply chain standards.
Trading Standards Approved
Vetted and approved under the local authority's trusted trader scheme for honesty and fair dealing.
NADC Member
Members of the National Association of Drainage Contractors, the UK trade body for the drainage industry.
Registered Waste Carrier
Registered with the Environment Agency, so your waste is handled and disposed of fully within the law.