Drainage Repairs & Renewals
The Permanent Fix for Broken Pipes
At ASL, we are big fans of “No-Dig” technology. However, sometimes a pipe is simply too damaged to be repaired from the inside.
If a drain has collapsed, crushed, or was installed with the wrong gradient, the only way to fix it properly is to dig it up and replace it. This is what we call a Drainage Renewal.
In simple terms: If the pipe is broken beyond repair, we excavate the ground, remove the old pipe, and install a brand-new, durable one in its place.

When Is Excavation Necessary?
We only recommend digging when it is absolutely necessary. Usually, this happens when:
- The Pipe has Collapsed: If the pipe has flattened or crumbled, we cannot insert a liner through it.
- Bad Gradients: If the original builders laid the pipe too flat (so water doesn’t flow away), lining it won’t help. We need to dig it up and lay it at the correct angle.
- Severe Root Damage: If tree roots have smashed the pipe to pieces, it needs replacing.
- Voids: If leaking water has washed away the soil around the pipe, the ground becomes unstable and needs rebuilding.
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How We Do It: The Process
We know that “excavation” sounds messy and stressful. We follow a strict process to keep disruption to a minimum and ensure safety.
1. Diagnosis (CCTV) – We start with a camera survey to pinpoint exactly where the break is. This ensures we only dig where we need to, rather than digging up your whole garden.
2. The Dig (Excavation) – Depending on the location, we use mini-excavators or hand-digging tools. We locate any other utilities where possible (like gas or electric) first to ensure we work safely.
3. The Replacement – We remove the old, damaged pipe (often old clay or pitch fibre) and replace it with modern, high-quality uPVC plastic pipes. These are designed to last for decades and are much smoother, improving the flow of water.
4. Backfilling & Reinstatement – Once the new pipe is tested, we reinstate the excavation.
- External: We put your driveway, patio, or lawn back together (whether it is concrete, tarmac, or slabs).
- Internal: If we have to dig inside your house, we fill the hole and finish the floor to a concrete or screed level. Please note: You will need a flooring specialist to relay your final carpet, vinyl, or tiles.
5. The Final Check – We send a camera down the new pipe to show you that it is perfectly laid, watertight, and flowing freely.
Why Not Just Line It?
We often get asked, “Can’t you just patch it?”
While lining is great, it relies on the existing pipe being structurally sound enough to hold the liner up. If we tried to line a collapsed pipe, the liner would simply take on the shape of the collapse, and you would still have a blockage.
Excavation allows us to:
- Physically remove the obstruction.
- Ensure the pipe is structurally sound and supported.
- Guarantee the water flows downhill correctly.

The Benefits to You
- A Fresh Start: You get a brand-new system that meets modern building regulations.
- Protection: Fixing collapsed drains stops water leaking into the ground, which can eventually damage your home’s foundations.
- Reliability: Modern plastic pipes are far less likely to crack or block than old clay ones.
- Evidence: We provide “before and after” footage, which is vital if you are claiming the cost on your buildings insurance.
If it can’t be lined, ASL will replace it properly. Get in touch for a quote.
ASL’s approach ensures the repair is durable, safe and designed to prevent future issues.
Testimonials
What Our Clients Say
“I called at 08:10 hours to report a blocked drain. A little while later, Darren rang to tell me he’d arrive in half an hour. He arrived on time and resolved the problem quickly and without fuss. He was polite and friendly throughout. Within two hours of reporting the blockage, all was well. Thank you.” Customer, Surrey
“I unreservedly recommend ASL. All the glowing reviews of ASL are true. They had to lift paving slabs to fix my drains, and I was concerned there might be unavoidable damage. I should not have worried. Liam and Richard did a superb job. Thanks, ASL” Customer, Surrey
“Darren arrived very promptly and got to work quickly. He did an excellent job and explained what he was doing. We would have no hesitation in recommending ASL Services.” Customer, Surrey
“Very efficient to book them to sort out a sewer drain blockage, and the cost was exactly what they quoted. Called before they arrived with a clear ETA. Got on with the job and sorted it out within the hour. Darren was excellent – very courteous and helpful, did more than we expected to help sort the problem out and was a font of knowledge on all things sewer-related. Given the subject matter (eeew) the whole experience with ASL was an absolute pleasure.” Customer, Surrey
“ASL recently carried out a drain repair at our house. They responded quickly to the call for help, came out and soon diagnosed the problem – tree roots blocking the drain. The remedial work on site was carried out by Lester and George – they worked hard and were very thorough. This is a long-established company that seems to know what they are doing.” Customer, Surrey
Areas we cover
Surrey, Hampshire, Berkshire, West Sussex and South West London
The ASL Limited HQ is in Guildford, but our operating area is the whole of Surrey and parts of Berkshire, Hampshire, West Sussex and South West London.

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Contact Us
Get in touch today
You can call us on 0800 181 684, email info@asllimited.co.uk or use the form below:
