Blocked Drain FAQ's in Chipping Norton
What causes blocked drains in older Chipping Norton homes?
Blocked drains in older Chipping Norton properties typically result from tree root intrusion into clay or terracotta sewer lines, grease and soap scum buildup in kitchen and bathroom pipes, or foreign objects (wipes, sanitary products) that don't break down. Roots enter through microscopic cracks and expand over time, trapping waste and restricting flow. A CCTV CCTV check confirms the cause and shows whether the pipe structure is intact or damaged.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Clearing a typical soft blockage (grease, hair, soap scum) with high-pressure water jetting usually takes 30 to 60 minutes once the plumber is onsite and has confirmed the blockage location with a camera. If the blockage involves tree roots or requires mechanical cutting, it may take longer. If the camera reveals structural damage, we explain the options and provide a separate quote for relining or repair work before proceeding.
What should I do if my toilet is overflowing?
Turn off the water supply to the toilet (the isolation valve is usually located on the wall or floor behind the cistern) and don't flush it again. If water is actively overflowing onto the floor, place towels around the base to contain the spread and prevent damage to flooring. Call us for immediate dispatch. An overflowing toilet indicates a blockage in the toilet trap, the branch line, or the main sewer line, and it requires professional clearing to prevent further backup.
Can tree roots be permanently removed from sewer pipes?
Tree roots can be cleared from sewer pipes using hydro jetting with cutting heads, but they will regrow if the entry point (a cracked joint or pipe wall) isn't sealed. The permanent solution is drain relining, which creates a seamless internal surface that roots can't penetrate. We explain both options after the CCTV check shows the extent of root intrusion and pipe condition, and you decide whether ongoing maintenance clearing or a structural fix suits your situation and budget.
Do you charge a call-out fee in Chipping Norton?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area and job type. When you book, confirm the call-out fee status for Chipping Norton and whether it's waived if you proceed with the quoted work. Our pricing is fixed and upfront, based on confirmed scope, so you'll know the total cost before work starts. There are no hidden costs, and the price quoted is the price paid.
How do you find a blockage without digging up the yard?
We use a high-definition CCTV drain camera to locate blockages without excavation. The camera is inserted through an existing access point (gully trap, inspection opening, or cleanout) and pushed through the pipe, transmitting live video to a monitor. This shows the blockage type, depth, and exact location within the property boundary. The camera also reveals pipe condition, so we can identify cracks, root intrusion, or joint separation that may cause future blockages.
What's the difference between a blocked drain and a broken sewer line?
A blocked drain restricts water flow due to an obstruction (grease, roots, foreign objects) but the pipe structure is still intact. A broken sewer line involves structural damage such as cracks, collapses, or joint separation, which allows soil, roots, and debris to enter the pipe and cause recurring blockages. A CCTV inspection confirms which issue you're dealing with. Blockages are cleared; broken lines require repair, relining, or replacement.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners for a drain blockage?
Chemical drain cleaners can clear minor soft blockages, but they contain harsh acids or alkalis that corrode pipe walls over time, especially in older metal or clay pipes. They're also ineffective against tree roots, foreign objects, or structural damage. If a chemical cleaner doesn't clear the blockage after one use, stop and call a plumber. Repeated use or mixing different products can damage pipes and create hazardous fumes.
How often should I have my drains inspected?
For properties with older pipe materials (clay, terracotta, galvanised steel) or established trees near sewer lines, an annual camera inspection helps identify early signs of root intrusion, joint separation, or corrosion before they cause a full blockage. For newer properties with PVC pipes and no recurring issues, inspections are typically only needed when symptoms appear (slow draining, gurgling, bad smells). We recommend inspection frequency based on what the camera shows during the first visit.
What happens if a blockage recurs after clearing?
Recurring blockages usually indicate an underlying structural issue such as root intrusion, a collapsed section, or severe pipe corrosion. After clearing the immediate blockage, we use a CCTV camera to inspect the full line and identify the cause. If structural damage is present, we explain the options (spot repair, drain relining, or replacement) and provide a fixed-price quote for permanent resolution. Recurring soft blockages may indicate improper waste disposal, and we'll explain what's going down the drain and how to prevent future buildup.
