Blocked Drain FAQ's in Avalon Beach
What causes blocked drains in Avalon Beach properties?
Blocked drains in Avalon Beach are typically caused by tree root intrusion in older terracotta or clay pipes, fat and grease solidifying in kitchen waste lines, or hair and soap scum accumulating in bathroom drains. Properties built before the 1990s often have aging pipe materials that develop microscopic cracks, allowing roots to enter and expand over time. We use CCTV check to confirm the blockage type and location before clearing begins.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We clear blocked drains using high-pressure water jetting at controlled pressures to pulverise roots and scour grease from pipe walls without damaging the pipe structure. For metal or plastic foreign objects, mechanical cable tools are used to retrieve or break up the obstruction. camera inspection is performed first to confirm the blockage type and location, which allows us to select the safest and most effective clearing method for your specific situation.
What happens during the first visit for a blocked drain?
During the first visit, we perform a CCTV camera inspection to identify the blockage location, type, and any structural damage present in the line. Once the cause is confirmed, we explain the options and provide a fixed-price quote for clearing the blockage. If the inspection shows the line is structurally sound, we proceed with clearing using high-pressure jetting or mechanical tools, then test flow rates to confirm drainage is restored before leaving.
Can tree roots cause permanent damage to drainage pipes?
Tree roots seeking moisture can enter microscopic cracks in aging clay or terracotta pipes and expand over time, eventually causing structural damage such as offset joints or collapsed sections. If CCTV inspection reveals extensive root intrusion or structural failure, clearing the blockage alone won't prevent recurrence. In these cases, we explain the repair options including pipe replacement or relining, and provide a fixed-price quote once the scope is verified.
How long does it take to clear a typical blocked drain?
Clearing a typical clogged drain takes between one and three hours, depending on the blockage location, type, and accessibility. External sewer line blockages may take longer if CCTV inspection is required to locate the restriction or if the blockage is deep within the property boundary. Once the blockage is cleared, we test flow rates and confirm drainage is restored, which adds time to ensure the job is completed properly.
Do you provide same-day service for blocked drains in Avalon Beach?
Yes, service the same day is available for blocked drains in Avalon Beach when you contact us early in the day. Urgent jobs are sent out first from our West Sydney hub, with arrival timing confirmed when you book. We provide ETA updates where possible based on current job schedules and traffic conditions. If you need immediate dispatch for an emergency blockage causing sewage backup or flooding, contact us and we'll arrange the nearest available technician.
What should I do if my drain is backing up and causing flooding?
If your drain is backing up and causing flooding, stop using all water fixtures immediately to prevent further overflow. If the backup is occurring in a toilet or floor drain, avoid flushing or running taps until the blockage is cleared. Contact us for immediate dispatch, and we'll send a NSW-licensed plumbing technician to assess the situation, isolate the affected system if necessary, and clear the blockage to restore drainage and prevent property damage.
Can you repair structural damage found during a blocked drain inspection?
Yes, if camera inspection reveals structural damage such as collapsed pipe sections, offset joints, or extensive root intrusion, we explain the repair options and provide a fixed-price quote for the additional work. Pipe relining is often the most cost-effective solution for localised damage, allowing us to repair the pipe without excavation. If the damage is too extensive for relining, we replace the affected section using modern PVC or copper piping, then pressure-test the repair before restoring the site.
How often should I have my drains inspected to prevent blockages?
For most homes, an annual CCTV drain inspection is sufficient to identify early signs of root intrusion, pipe deterioration, or debris buildup before they cause blockages. Properties with established trees near sewer lines or older terracotta pipes may benefit from more frequent inspections. Regular inspections allow us to clear minor restrictions before they develop into full blockages, which reduces the risk of emergency callouts and costly repairs.
Do you charge a call-out fee for blocked drain work in Avalon Beach?
Call-out fee policies vary by service area. For Avalon Beach, confirm the call-out fee status when booking. We provide a fixed-price quote for the clearing work once the blockage location and cause are confirmed onsite, and the price is by the job, not by the hour. There are no hidden costs added at the end, and you can decide whether to proceed once the scope and price are confirmed.