Blocked Drain FAQ's in Chullora
What causes blocked drains in Chullora properties?
Blocked drains in Chullora typically result from food waste and grease buildup in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum in bathroom drains, or tree root intrusion in older terracotta or clay sewer pipes common to post-war and 1960s housing stock. Foreign objects like sanitary products or wipes flushed down toilets also cause blockages. A CCTV camera inspection confirms the cause and location before clearing work starts.
How do you clear a clogged drain?
We insert a high-definition CCTV camera through an access point to locate the obstruction and identify its type. Once diagnosed, high-pressure water jetting fires water at 3,000 to 5,000 PSI to pulverise roots and scour grease from pipe walls, or an electric eel is used for solid foreign objects. The method depends on what the camera shows; if structural damage is found, repair options are explained and quoted separately.
What should I do if my drain is completely blocked?
Stop using affected fixtures to prevent overflow and further backup. If sewage is backing up into the home or toilets are overflowing, isolate water use and arrange an urgent assessment so the blockage can be cleared and the cause identified. Don't attempt to force the blockage with harsh chemicals, as these can corrode pipes and make the problem worse. A quick call arranges immediate dispatch for urgent situations.
Can tree roots damage my sewer pipes?
Yes, tree roots seek moisture and enter sewer pipes through microscopic cracks, then expand inside the pipe, trapping debris and causing structural failure over time. This is common in older terracotta or clay pipes found in post-war and 1960s properties. CCTV check shows the extent of root intrusion, and high-pressure jetting clears the roots; if the pipe structure is compromised, relining or replacement options are explained and quoted once scope is confirmed on site.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Typical blockages in accessible lines are cleared within one to two hours, including CCTV inspection and jetting. Complex blockages involving multiple obstructions, deep external lines, or structural damage take longer and may require follow-up work. The timeframe is confirmed after the initial assessment, and you'll know the fixed price and expected completion time before work proceeds.
Do you provide same-day service in Chullora?
Yes, same-day service is available for most drainage and plumbing issues in Chullora. Urgent jobs are dispatched immediately from the nearest available hub, with an ETA provided when booking and updated if delays occur. Arrival timing depends on current bookings and traffic conditions, but urgent situations are prioritised to reduce wait times and limit property damage.
Is there a call-out fee for blocked drains in Chullora?
Call-out fee status varies by service area and job type. Confirm the call-out fee when booking to avoid surprises. The diagnostic assessment (CCTV check) is included in the quoted price for clearing work; if you choose not to proceed after diagnosis, the assessment fee applies. Fixed pricing is provided after scope is confirmed onsite, with no hidden fees or hourly rate charges added later.
What happens if the blockage can't be cleared?
If the CCTV check reveals collapsed pipe sections, severe structural damage, or obstructions that can't be cleared without excavation or relining, the options are explained and a fixed quote is provided for the required repair work. You can decide whether to proceed once scope and pricing are confirmed. We don't add unexpected costs; the quote reflects the work needed based on what the camera shows.
Can I prevent blocked drains?
Avoid pouring fats, oils, and food waste down kitchen sinks; dispose of them in the bin instead. Use drain guards to catch hair and debris in bathroom drains. Only flush toilet paper and human waste; sanitary products and wipes should go in the bin. Regular maintenance such as periodic camera inspections and jetting can identify early signs of root intrusion or buildup before complete blockages occur.
Are your plumbers licensed and fully insured?
Yes, all attending technicians are properly licensed plumbers in NSW (Licence 305428C), and Fixed Today Plumbing carries full Public Liability and Workers Compensation insurance. This means you're protected if accidental property damage occurs during work or if a workplace injury happens onsite. Our plumbers have completed police and background checks, arrive in uniform, and confirm their identity before entry.