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Wet Well Surveys

Fast, professional well well surveys and cleaning across Cumbria and the Scottish Borders

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Blocked Drains in Cumbria

Wet wells are critical components of pumping stations, wastewater networks and commercial drainage systems. When they become blocked, damaged or poorly maintained, they can cause serious issues including pump failure, flooding, pollution risks and costly downtime.

Unblock Cumbria provides professional wet well cleaning, inspections and condition surveys for residential, commercial, industrial and municipal sites. Using specialist confined-space trained engineers and advanced equipment, we keep your systems operating safely and compliantly.

What Is a Wet Well?

A wet well is a chamber that collects wastewater before it is pumped to a treatment plant, rising main or sewer. It plays a vital role in controlling flow, preventing backups and ensuring smooth operation of your drainage network.

Over time, wet wells can accumulate debris, grease, rags, silt, non-flushables and structural defects — all of which reduce performance and increase the risk of pump failure.

What’s Included?

Our detailed surveys provide a full assessment of your wet well’s condition and performance. Each inspection includes:

  • Full confined-space entry by trained operatives

  • Cleaning and debris removal

  • CCTV inspection of incoming/outgoing pipework

  • Pump condition checks

  • Float, guide rail and control panel testing

  • Chamber integrity and structural assessment

  • Water level monitoring

  • Asset documentation and recommendations

You receive a clear report with photos, findings and repair recommendations.

Common Problems

Wet wells often suffer from:

  • Heavy silt, sludge or rag build-up

  • Grease accumulation

  • Pump blockages and failures

  • Broken or jammed floats and sensors

  • Structural deterioration, corrosion or cracking

  • Odours and ventilation issues

  • Fatty deposits, wipes and non-flushables

  • Poor access or confined-space hazards

A professional survey identifies issues early, preventing costly emergency repairs and protecting your system’s lifespan.

Why Choose Us?

  • Confined-space trained engineers

  • Decades of expertise in wastewater systems

  • Advanced jetting, vacuum and lifting equipment

  • Fast response across Cumbria & the Scottish Borders

  • Detailed reporting for compliance and asset management

  • Emergency call-out available 24/7

Areas We Cover

We’re proud to serve customers throughout Cumbria and beyond, including:

Need a Wet Well Survey or Emergency Assistance?
Call 01900 870 140 or complete our contact form. Our confined-space trained engineers deliver safe, compliant and reliable wet well services across Cumbria.

Our Process

  • Initial Assessment
    We identify access points, hazards and system layout.

  • Cleaning & Debris Removal
    Using jetting, vacuum tankers and specialist equipment.

  • Entry & Inspection
    Confined-space qualified engineers enter the chamber safely.

  • Pump & Equipment Checks
    Includes floats, guide rails, valves, pipework and control panels.

  • CCTV & Structural Survey
    Identifies hidden damage or future risks.

  • Reporting & Recommendations
    You get a clear report with next steps and maintenance options.

If your wet well is overflowing, backing up or pumps have failed, call our emergency team on 01900 870 140. We respond quickly to restore flow, prevent flooding and protect your infrastructure.

Frequently asked questions

How often should a wet well be cleaned or inspected?

Most wet wells should be inspected and cleaned every 6–12 months, depending on usage, incoming waste type and pump activity. Sites with heavy ragging, commercial kitchens or high flow volumes may require more frequent servicing. Regular inspections prevent pump failures, reduce emergency call-outs and ensure your system remains fully compliant.

What causes wet wells to become blocked?

Blockages are commonly caused by wipes, rags, fats, oils, grease, silt and debris entering the system. Over time, these materials accumulate and restrict pump operation. Mechanical failures, poor ventilation and structural issues can also contribute. Routine cleaning and monitoring are essential to prevent costly failures and maintain optimum performance.

Do wet well surveys require confined-space entry?

Yes — most wet well inspections involve confined-space entry due to limited access, hazardous gases and deep chambers. Our engineers are fully trained, equipped with gas monitoring, retrieval systems and PPE, ensuring safe entry and a thorough assessment of the chamber, pumps, pipework and internal structure.

Can you inspect pumps during a wet well survey?

Absolutely. Pump condition forms a key part of every wet well survey. We check impellers, guide rails, floats, seals, electrical operation and rising main connections. Identifying pump wear early helps prevent breakdowns, reduces running costs and avoids unplanned shutdowns or environmental risks.

What signs indicate a wet well needs cleaning?

Slow pump cycling, high-level alarms, foul odours, rising water levels and pump blockages are common indicators. Visible build-up of rag, grease or silt also suggests the wet well is overdue for maintenance. Early intervention helps protect pumps, reduce energy consumption and extend system life.

Do you provide reports for compliance and asset management?

Yes. Every survey includes a detailed written report with photos, findings and recommendations. This documentation supports Building Control, Environment Agency requirements, insurance needs and long-term asset maintenance planning. Reports can also be shared with facility managers, landlords or councils as required.

Can wet wells be upgraded or refurbished if needed?

Yes — we offer full refurbishment and upgrade options including pump replacement, new guide rails, structural repairs, control panel upgrades and improved access solutions. Whether due to ageing equipment or increased site demand, we can recommend and install the most cost-effective long-term improvements.