Home/Drain Specialist/Guides/Drain Lining (CIPP) — UK Cost & Process Guide

Reline a damaged drain.

CIPP — cured-in-place pipe lining — repairs cracks and joints without digging up the garden.

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Wrong liner thickness

Thin liners can fail. Standard 6mm typical. Premium 9mm+ for high-pressure.

Junction reconnection failure

Side connections must be re-opened after lining. Sometimes missed.

Hot-spot heating uneven

Hot-water curing can leave weak spots. UV-curing more uniform.

Old pipe collapse

If existing pipe severely deformed, liner may not form properly. Excavation needed.

Costs & timeline

Know what it costs. Know when it ends.

Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.

Cost range

By job type

Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
CIPP lining per metreStandard 100-150mm pipe
£120–£300
Large diameter lining200-300mm pipe
£250–£500
Standard 10m lining jobDomestic drainage
£1.2k–£3k
Standard 20m lining jobLarger property
£2.4k–£6k
Junction reconnectionPer connection
£200–£500
Pre-lining cleaningUsually included
£1–£1
!

Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.

At a glance

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Drain Lining (CIPP) — UK Cost & Process Guide infographic
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Drain Specialist explained

Drain lining (CIPP — Cured In Place Pipe) repairs drains without excavation. Epoxy resin liner pulled through pipe, cured. Expect to pay £120–£300 per metre for UK drain lining.

What Does the Work Involve?

Drain cleared and inspected by CCTV. Resin-impregnated liner (felt or fibreglass) pulled through pipe via manhole access. Inflated against existing pipe walls. Cured by hot water, steam, or UV light. New seamless pipe inside the old. Service connections reopened via internal cutting.

Typical Costs

ItemLow (£)High (£)Notes
CIPP lining per metre120300Standard 100-150mm pipe
Large diameter lining250500200-300mm pipe
UV-cured lining+£40+£100Per metre premium
Standard 10m lining job1,2003,000Domestic drainage
Standard 20m lining job2,4006,000Larger property
Junction reconnection200500Per connection
Pre-lining cleaning00Usually included

How Long Does It Take?

Standard lining: 1-2 days. Larger projects: 2-3 days. Plus pre-lining cleaning.

DIY or Professional?

Specialist drainage contractor only. CIPP-trained installer with proper equipment.

Choosing the Right Tradesperson

NADC member. CIPP-trained. Insurance-backed warranty (25 years on lining). UV-curing equipment is premium option.

UK Regulations

Building Regs Part H. Water company approval for sewer work. Insurance-backed guarantee (IBG) essential.

Common Problems

  • Wrong liner thickness: Thin liners can fail. Standard 6mm typical. Premium 9mm+ for high-pressure.
  • Junction reconnection failure: Side connections must be re-opened after lining. Sometimes missed.
  • Hot-spot heating uneven: Hot-water curing can leave weak spots. UV-curing more uniform.
  • Old pipe collapse: If existing pipe severely deformed, liner may not form properly. Excavation needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does CIPP lining last?

50+ years. Manufacturer warranty 25 years typical. Lasts longer than original clay pipe.

Lining vs excavation cost?

Lining: £120-£300/m. Excavation: £200-£500/m plus reinstatement. Lining usually cheaper overall.

What pipes can be lined?

Clay, concrete, PVC, cast iron — most pipe types. Severely collapsed pipes need excavation.

UV-cured vs hot water?

UV: faster cure (1-2 hours vs 4-6), more uniform. Hot water: cheaper but less uniform. UV is premium option.

Will lining reduce pipe diameter?

Slightly — 4-10mm depending on liner thickness. Flow capacity reduced 5-15% typically. Modern liners minimize.

Insurance covers lining?

Some buildings insurance covers if drain damage caused by insured event (subsidence, storm). Maintenance issues: rarely covered.

This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.

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