A vital aspect of Trenchless Technology is the correct identification and location of existing utilities, leaks, voids and anomalies before any work is carried out. Utilities can often deviate from existing plans and increasing concerns over safety and third-party damages have lead to a variety of techniques being available for the detection of underground utilities.

The main techniques employed for condition investigation and assessment and structural investigation include Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), ultrasonic inspection, wave impedance, infra red thermography and seismic, intelligent pigs and a range of hand-held and walk behind options are also available.

Dial 1100 Before You Dig also offers an Australian service aimed at providing contractors and others with detailed information as to what underground utilities are in an area before any drilling or boring commences. Dial 1100 Before You Dig also offers a free national community service designed to prevent damage and disruption by acting as a single point of contact for information about underground networks.