Drainage question re: possible house purchase

[stevethecadman]

Hi all,

Maybe an unusual question as I do not have access to the house I refer to. I've had a homebuyer report done on a house I am thinking of purchasing and they make this comment:

Mains drainage with plastic soil/vent pipe at the rear. This has been re-sited following the construction of the conservatory and the drains 'tumble' into the rear manhole, a practice not strictly allowed. There is a build up of effluent at both manhole chambers and in view of my findings a drains test is recommended by specialist drainage contractors.

Now, I am trying to ascertain what exactly this means and what work is required. I need to decide if I proceed with the purchase and pay for any work needed myself or kick up a fuss with the vendor and request this to be sorted (or at least paid for) prior to moving in.

If anyone has any idea of the seriousness of this problem and/or what the best fix would be (and the cost) I would be very grateful.

Thanks in advance.

Steve[/b]

 

[Hugh Jaleak]

Difficult to say what would or could need doing without seeing the site, but assuming the drain enters the rear manhole by means of a 'tumbling bay' or backdrop, then this (done properly) is perfectly acceptable practice.

The 'build up of effluent at both manhole chambers' does give rise for concern though. Properly built drains should be on a constant fall, and be self cleansing. No effluent should remain in the pipework. Any build up of effluent may indicate either a backfall on the drain or a partial blockage.

If you are serious about purchasing then a thorough inspection, CCTV survey and report is vital IMO. A reputable drainage company should be able to provide this and also give a quote for whatever remedial works they deem necessary. I certainly wouldn't entertain any idea of purchase without first getting a survey done, and if after a survey you still have cause for concern, walk away! Drainage remedials could work out expensive!

 

[Nige F]

drains 'tumble' into the rear manhole, a practice not strictly allowed.

Thanks in advance.

Steve[/b]

Probably means - Tumble *inside* the manhole lift the lid and have a look

 

[stevethecadman]

Probably means - Tumble *inside* the manhole lift the lid and have a look

It's not my house yet so I don't have access.

I thought the same though... sounds like the foul run goes into side of chamber at high level and waste then drops, via gravity, to invert level, splat, (rather than having a proper back-drop detail).

I will see if I can speak to the surveyor tomorrow and will come back with any extra information I get.

 

[Tibbot]

OP- Walk now.

 

[HERTS P&D]

You could have a drain survey and any works that need doing would come off the asking price.

Depending on the size of the property the survey should cost anything from £250

Andy