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Blocked Drains Manchester
Trusted local drainage specialists

Drain Excavation in Manchester

Full drain excavation and replacement for severely damaged pipes.

  • Fast response across Manchester
  • Fixed pricing with no hidden extras
  • Fully insured drainage engineers
  • 24/7 emergency availability
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Drain Excavation across Manchester

Drain excavation is the definitive repair method for severely damaged drainage that cannot be fixed by relining or patch repair. When pipes have completely collapsed, lost their shape, or suffered extensive damage along a significant length, excavation allows us to remove the failed section entirely and replace it with new pipework. Our excavation teams use mini-diggers, hand-dig equipment, and shoring systems appropriate to the depth and ground conditions. We work in all soil types found across Greater Manchester including clay, sand, rock, and mixed ground. Before any digging begins, we use CCTV survey data to plan the excavation precisely — identifying the exact location and extent of damage so we dig only where necessary, minimising disruption. New pipework is installed to current building regulations using appropriate materials and gradient specifications. Once the pipe is laid and tested, we backfill the trench in compacted layers and reinstate the surface to match the surrounding area — whether that is lawn, paving, tarmac, or concrete. Drain excavation typically takes one to three days depending on the length of pipe, depth, and reinstatement requirements.

Signs you need drain excavation help

  • ✓ A CCTV survey has confirmed a complete pipe collapse or loss of pipe shape that cannot be relined
  • ✓ There is visible subsidence or a sinkhole forming above a drainage route in your garden or driveway
  • ✓ Sewage is leaking into the surrounding ground, causing contamination or persistent damp
  • ✓ Previous relining or patch repairs have failed because the underlying pipe structure is too degraded
  • ✓ You need to replace a section of pipe to accommodate a new connection for an extension or development

Our process

  1. 1.
    Survey and Plan

    We review CCTV footage to plan the excavation precisely — marking out the dig area, confirming pipe depth, and identifying any utilities or obstacles. You receive a clear scope of work before we start.

  2. 2.
    Excavation

    We carefully dig down to the damaged pipe using appropriate equipment for the location — mini-digger for open areas, hand-dig for confined spaces or near buildings. Shoring is installed as needed for safety.

  3. 3.
    Pipe Replacement

    The damaged section is removed and replaced with new pipework laid to the correct gradient. Connections to existing upstream and downstream pipes are made using appropriate adaptors and sealed joints.

  4. 4.
    Backfill and Reinstatement

    The trench is backfilled in compacted layers to prevent future settlement. The surface is reinstated to match the surrounding area — turf, paving, concrete, or tarmac — leaving a neat, professional finish.

Pricing guide

Drain excavation in the Manchester area varies depending on depth, length, ground conditions, and surface reinstatement. Typical costs range from £500 to £2,000 or more for extensive work. We provide a detailed fixed quote after CCTV diagnosis so you know exactly what to expect. Surface reinstatement is always included in our quotes.

Drain Excavation — frequently asked questions

How long does drain excavation take?

A straightforward excavation of a short section at moderate depth is typically completed in one day. Longer runs, deeper pipes, or complex ground conditions may take two to three days. We always provide a realistic timeframe before starting.

Will excavation damage my garden or driveway?

Excavation does require digging a trench to reach the pipe. We minimise the width and length of the trench using precise CCTV data, and we reinstate all surfaces to match the surrounding area once the pipe is replaced. Most gardens and driveways look fully restored within a few weeks.

Is excavation the only option for a collapsed drain?

If the pipe has completely collapsed and lost its shape, excavation is usually the only reliable repair method. Partially collapsed pipes may sometimes be relined, but this depends on the extent of damage. A CCTV survey determines which method is appropriate for your specific situation.

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