Drain Excavation & Replacement
The Definitive Solution for Collapsed & Damaged Drains — Trusted Since 1986
Facing a major drainage failure? When repairs from the surface aren’t enough, our expert excavation team provides a lasting solution.
Get a comprehensive survey and quote today.
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No obligation, no hidden fees. Just a clear, honest price.
Accreditations
Expert Drain Excavation Services in London & Hertfordshire
For severely damaged or collapsed drains, Drain 247 provides a complete, start-to-finish drain excavation and replacement service. This traditional method involves digging down to the pipework to carry out essential repairs or replacements, guaranteeing a permanent solution to the most serious drainage problems for customers across London and Hertfordshire. Our focus is on safe, efficient work with minimal disruption and a commitment to restoring your property to its original condition.
Your Local Excavation Experts in London & Hertfordshire
From our base in Watford, we serve the entire region, including: All London Boroughs and Hertfordshire (Watford, St Albans, Hemel Hempstead, Stevenage, and surrounding areas).
When is Drain Excavation Necessary?
While we always explore “no-dig” trenchless repairs first, excavation is the essential and correct solution for certain types of drain failure. A CCTV drain survey will confirm if you need excavation due to:
Collapsed Drains: The pipe has completely caved in, stopping flow and making lining impossible.
Severe Displacements & Fractures: Pipe joints have shifted so significantly that they can’t be sealed from the inside.
Incorrect Gradient (Backfall): The original pipe was laid incorrectly and doesn’t slope enough (or slopes the wrong way), causing chronic blockages.
Complete System Replacement: Old, deteriorating pipework (e.g., pitch fibre or clay) needs to be fully upgraded to modern uPVC.
New Drainage Installations: Laying new pipes for a property extension, new build, or septic tank installation.
Honest Advice: Excavation vs. No-Dig Repairs
As drainage experts, we are proficient in all forms of repair. Many issues can be fixed with modern “no-dig” methods like drain lining.
However, we will only ever recommend the solution that is right for your specific problem. If excavation is the only way to guarantee a permanent, reliable fix, we will explain why in detail.
Our priority is to provide you with a lasting solution, not a temporary patch.
Our Commitment to You: We use state-of-the-art CCTV drain inspection equipment to thoroughly diagnose the issue.
We’ll show you the footage, clearly mark the damaged section, and present you with a detailed quote outlining both the no-dig and excavation options, along with our expert recommendation.
We will never recommend an excavation unless it is absolutely essential to guarantee a permanent, high-quality repair.
5-Star Reviews.
Testimonial
Drain 247 mapping saved our project from delays. Clear plans, fast service!”
— John S, Architect, London
Why Choose Drain 247 for Drain Excavation?
Fully Accredited & Insured: We hold top industry accreditations (CHAS, Constructionline) and are fully insured with comprehensive public liability for your complete peace of mind.
Start-to-Finish Project Management: We handle everything – the survey, the dig, the repair, the council permits (if needed), and the full reinstatement.
A Commitment to Reinstatement: We pride ourselves on leaving your property as we found it. Our goal is to make the repair, not a mess.
Safety First Approach: Our engineers are fully trained in safe digging practices, cable avoidance, and site safety to protect you, your property, and the public.
Clear, Fixed-Price Quotes: You will receive a detailed, itemised quote for the entire project before any work begins. No hidden costs, no surprises.
Contact
We are Here:
42-44 Clarendon Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1JJ
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my drain needs to be excavated?
The only way to be certain is with a CCTV drain survey. The camera footage will clearly show if the pipe is collapsed or too damaged for other repair methods, and our engineer will show you the findings on-site.
Will the excavation ruin my garden or driveway?
We understand this is a major concern. Our team works with the utmost care to minimise the footprint of the dig. Crucially, our service includes full reinstatement of the surface, so we will put everything back to its original condition.
How much does drain excavation cost?
The cost varies significantly depending on the depth of the drain, the length of the repair, and the type of surface being excavated. We provide a detailed, no-obligation, fixed-price quote after a thorough site survey.
How long does an excavation job take?
A typical domestic repair can take anywhere from one to three days. The full timescale will be clearly outlined in your quote, and we will work efficiently to complete the job as quickly as possible.
Are you insured for major works like this?
Yes, absolutely. Drain 247 holds comprehensive public liability insurance, ensuring you and your property are fully covered throughout the entire project.