We’re proud to serve customers throughout Cumbria and beyond, including:
Moving Drains
Expert Drain Relocation for Homes, Businesses & Construction Projects. Whether you’re planning a home extension, adding a conservatory, or developing a commercial site, your existing drainage layout can often get in the way.
Moving Drains in Cumbria
We specialise in drain relocation and re-routing across Cumbria and the Scottish Borders. From planning and surveys through to installation and reinstatement, we make sure your project moves forward smoothly — with all drainage work completed safely, legally, and efficiently.
Our engineers handle everything from small domestic diversions to complex re-routes on large industrial or civil sites. Using CCTV mapping, laser-level design, and high-precision installation, we ensure your drainage system continues to perform perfectly, no matter how your property layout changes.
We also take care of the paperwork — liaising with Building Control and United Utilities (or your relevant local water authority) to obtain approvals for public sewer connections or diversions. Our goal is simple: to deliver a fully compliant, low-disruption solution that fits seamlessly into your build schedule.
The Process
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Initial Site Survey & Consultation
We start by mapping your existing drainage network using advanced CCTV technology. This helps us identify the route, depth, and connection points of all drains to determine the most practical and compliant relocation plan. -
Design, Planning & Permissions
Our experienced team designs the new drainage layout, taking into account gradients, load, and discharge points. If your drain connects to a public sewer, we’ll prepare and submit the Section 106 or Build Over/Close to Sewer applications on your behalf. -
Excavation & Installation
Once approvals are in place, we carefully excavate and install the new drain run, using high-quality materials and correct bedding for long-term durability. All pipework, manholes, and access points are installed to current standards. -
Testing & Quality Assurance
Before backfilling, we perform hydraulic testing or CCTV re-inspection to ensure the new system is watertight and fully functional. -
Reinstatement & Cleanup
After completion, we reinstate the ground, paving, or landscaping to a professional finish, leaving your property neat and tidy.
Reasons for Relocation
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Building an Extension or Conservatory – When new foundations or footings cross an existing drain, it must be diverted to prevent damage and comply with Building Regulations.
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Installing Driveways or Patios – Existing drains might sit too shallow or in the wrong position to accommodate new surfacing, paving, or soakaways.
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Adding New Bathrooms or Kitchens – Relocating or extending drainage connections ensures new waste outlets discharge correctly into the main system.
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Converting Garages or Outbuildings – We reroute or connect new drains to integrate smoothly with your main sewer network.
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Replacing Shared Drainage Systems – Older properties often share drainage with neighbours. A new private system gives you full independence and prevents future disputes.
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Correcting Poor Installation or Damaged Drains – Historical or poorly designed drains can cause structural damage or persistent blockages; moving and replacing them solves the problem permanently.
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Improving Access for Maintenance – If drains run beneath walls or extensions, we can reconfigure them to allow easier inspection, jetting, or CCTV access points.
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Compliance with Public Sewer Regulations – Drains within three metres of a public sewer may require relocation to meet statutory clearance distances.
Why Choose Us?
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Local Knowledge – Decades of experience working across Cumbria and the Borders
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Full Project Management – From design and permissions to testing and reinstatement
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Qualified Engineers – NADC-registered and SafeContractor-approved teams
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Regulatory Compliance – We handle all Building Control and water authority liaison
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Transparent Pricing – Clear, written quotes before work begins
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Clean, Efficient Work – Minimal disruption and full site cleanup after completion
When it comes to drain relocation, experience matters. At Unblock Cumbria, we combine technical precision with a practical, customer-focused approach — ensuring every project is completed safely, on time, and in full compliance with UK drainage regulations.
Areas We Cover
- Whitehaven
- Workington
- Carlisle
- Keswick
- Wigton
- Kendal
- Windermere
- Penrith
- Barrow-in-Furness
- and surrounding areas across the Scottish Borders.
If you’re unsure whether we cover your location, just give us a call — our friendly team will be happy to help.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to move a drain?
The cost of moving a drain varies depending on its depth, length, and whether permissions are needed. Simple residential relocations can start from around £1,000–£2,500, while complex commercial or public drain diversions may cost more. We’ll always carry out a detailed survey first and provide a clear, itemised quotation before starting any work.
Can I move a public drain on my own property?
If the drain serves more than one property, it’s classed as a public sewer, and you’ll need permission from your local water authority (such as United Utilities). Our team handles this process for you, preparing all drawings, applications, and compliance documentation required to obtain approval.
How long does the process take?
For smaller domestic projects, the work can often be completed within 2–4 days, including excavation, installation, and reinstatement. Larger projects involving permissions or multiple connections may take longer, but we’ll always provide you with an accurate schedule before beginning work.
Will moving my drains affect building foundations?
No — our engineers take great care to protect your property. We assess load paths and foundation positions to ensure the new drain route maintains adequate clearance and stability. If you’re building close to an existing public sewer, we’ll design the installation to comply fully with Building Regulations Part H.
What happens if I build over an existing drain by mistake?
If you’ve built an extension or structure over a drain without approval, it’s crucial to act quickly. We can assess the situation, check pipe condition using CCTV, and assist with a Build Over Agreement application or redesign if relocation is required.
Do you provide CCTV surveys before and after?
Yes. Every drain relocation includes pre- and post-work CCTV inspections. This ensures both the old and new systems are mapped, documented, and compliant — ideal for your Building Control records.
Can you handle tricky sites or limited access areas?
Absolutely. Our team regularly works on sloped terrain, confined sites, and difficult ground conditions. We use specialised machinery and techniques to complete the work safely and efficiently, even in challenging environments.
Get Your Free Quote
Our experienced, security-cleared team delivers reliable solutions. Call 01900 870 140 for immediate assistance. Prefer email? Simply complete our contact form and we’ll respond promptly with a tailored quote.
