A cracked drain pipe is a fracture in the wall of a pipe that may run longitudinally, circumferentially or in a star pattern around a fitting or joint. Cracks commonly arise from ground movement, point loading from a vehicle on a shallow run, freeze-thaw cycles affecting upper sections, or impact during nearby excavation. The crack itself may not block the drain immediately, but it allows wastewater to escape into the surrounding ground and provides an entry point for tree roots, silt and groundwater. Over time, this leads to localised ground washout and progressive deterioration. Engineers usually identify cracks through a CCTV drain survey in accordance with BS EN 13508-2. Repair options include patch lining, full length cured-in-place lining, or excavation and replacement depending on the severity and location.
Cracked drain pipe
Linear or circumferential crack in a drain pipe allowing leakage and root ingress.
