Blocked Drain FAQ's in Busby
What causes blocked drains in Busby properties?
Blocked drains in Busby typically result from grease and fat buildup in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, tree roots entering cracked pipes, or foreign objects like wipes and sanitary products. In older properties with original clay or terracotta pipes, root intrusion from mature street trees is common. We use CCTV cameras to identify the blockage type and location, then clear it with the appropriate method.
How do you clear a blocked drain?
We locate the blockage with a high-definition CCTV camera, then clear it using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical snaking depending on the obstruction type and pipe condition. Jetting removes roots and scours grease from pipe walls, while mechanical tools retrieve solid objects. After clearing, we verify flow and check for any structural issues that might cause future blockages. You receive a fixed-price quote once scope is confirmed.
What should I do if my drain is blocked?
If water is draining slowly or backing up, avoid using the affected fixture and call a licensed and insured plumber. For sewage backups or overflows, this is treated as an emergency and we dispatch immediately. Don't pour chemical drain cleaners down the line, as they can corrode pipes and make the problem worse. A brief phone call is enough to confirm whether immediate dispatch is needed or if a standard booking suits your situation.
Can tree roots damage my drains?
Tree roots commonly enter cracked or damaged pipes in older Busby properties, especially those with original clay or terracotta lines. Roots seek moisture and expand inside the pipe, trapping debris and reducing flow. High-pressure jetting removes the roots, but if the CCTV check reveals structural damage, we explain the repair options and provide a fixed quote before proceeding. Trenchless relining may be an option to avoid excavation.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Typical residential blockages are cleared within one to two hours, including diagnosis, clearing, and verification. Complex blockages involving root intrusion or structural damage may take longer, and we confirm the timeframe once scope is assessed onsite. Emergency jobs are dispatched immediately from our West Sydney hub, with ETA updates provided when you book. The flat-rate quote covers the full job, including diagnosis and verification.
Do you provide same-day drain clearing in Busby?
We dispatch urgent drain jobs immediately from our West Sydney hub, meaning most emergency calls in the Liverpool area are reached within typical response windows. Standard bookings can usually be arranged on the same day or the next available day depending on current workload. When you call, we confirm availability and provide an ETA. All work is priced upfront once scope is finalised onsite.
What happens if the blockage can't be cleared?
If the CCTV inspection reveals structural damage like a collapsed pipe or extensive root intrusion that can't be cleared with jetting, we explain the repair options and provide a fixed quote for any additional work before proceeding. This might include pipe relining, sectional replacement, or excavation depending on the condition and location of the damaged pipe. You decide once scope and cost are confirmed.
Are your plumbers licensed and insured?
All our plumbers are correctly licensed in NSW for plumbing, drainage, and gas fitting. We carry Public Liability and Workers Compensation insurance, which means you're protected if accidental property damage occurs during the job. Our plumbers arrive in uniform, confirm their identity on arrival, and complete all work to Australian Standards. All labour is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship.
How much does it cost to clear a clogged drain in Busby?
We provide a fixed price quote after confirming scope onsite, so the cost depends on the blockage type, location, and accessibility. The quote covers diagnosis, clearing, and verification, with no hidden fees. If the job is more complex than expected, we confirm the revised scope and price before continuing. When you call to book, we can explain what typically affects the price and confirm the call-out fee status for your area.
Can I prevent blocked drains?
You can reduce the chance of blockages by avoiding pouring fats, oils, and grease down kitchen sinks, using drain guards to catch hair and food particles, and only flushing toilet paper and human waste. In properties with mature trees, regular CCTV inspections can identify root intrusion early before it causes a full blockage. We explain what caused your blockage after clearing it, so you know what to watch for.