Blocked Drain FAQ's in Coogee
What causes blocked drains in Coogee properties?
Blocked drains in Coogee typically result from grease and fat buildup in kitchen lines, soap residue and hair in bathroom drains, or tree root intrusion in older terracotta pipes common to post-war and mid-century properties. Foreign objects flushed down toilets, such as sanitary products or excessive toilet paper, can lodge in bends and trap debris. We use CCTV cameras to identify the cause and location before clearing the blockage with high-pressure jetting or drain snakes.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Most residential blocked drains are cleared within one to two hours once the plumber arrives and completes the CCTV inspection. Timeframes depend on blockage severity, access to the affected pipe, and whether structural damage is discovered during inspection. If the camera reveals root intrusion or collapsed pipe sections requiring relining, we explain the extended scope and provide a fixed-price quote before proceeding with additional work.
Do you charge a call-out fee in Coogee?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area. When you book, we confirm the call-out fee status for your Coogee address and explain how it applies if you proceed with the quoted work. Our pricing is fixed and upfront, the quote provided after onsite inspection is the final price, with no hidden costs or hourly rate additions at the end of the job.
Can tree roots be removed from drain pipes without digging?
Tree roots can be cleared from drain pipes using high-pressure water jetting, which cuts through roots and scours them from pipe walls without excavation. If camera inspection shows extensive root intrusion or structural damage to the pipe, trenchless relining may be recommended to seal cracks and prevent regrowth. Relining involves inserting a resin liner into the existing pipe, avoiding the cost and disruption of digging up driveways or landscaping.
What should I do if my drain is blocked after hours?
If a blocked drain is causing sewage backup, flooding, or health risks after hours, call our 24/7 emergency line for immediate dispatch. For non-urgent blockages, such as slow drainage without overflow, you can book a service the same day during standard hours. When you call, we assess urgency, provide an ETA, and explain the call-out fee status for your area before dispatching a properly licensed plumber.
How do I prevent blocked drains in my Coogee home?
Preventing blocked drains involves disposing of grease and fat in the bin rather than down the sink, using drain guards to catch hair and food particles, and flushing only toilet paper and human waste down toilets. In properties with established trees, routine CCTV inspections can identify early root intrusion before it causes a full blockage. We provide maintenance recommendations after clearing blockages, tailored to the pipe material and condition observed during inspection.
Will clearing a blocked drain damage my pipes?
High-pressure water jetting and electric drain snakes are safe for PVC, clay, and cast iron pipes when performed by licensed plumbers who adjust pressure and technique based on pipe material and condition. We conduct a CCTV inspection before we clear to assess pipe integrity and identify any pre-existing damage. If the camera reveals fragile or deteriorated pipes, we adjust the clearing method or recommend relining to avoid worsening the damage.
Do you provide a warranty on blocked drain cleaning?
All our drainage work is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship. If the same blockage recurs due to incomplete clearing or faulty technique, we return to resolve it at no additional charge. The warranty covers our labour; it does not cover new blockages caused by subsequent debris buildup, root regrowth, or structural pipe failures unrelated to the original clearing work.
Can you clear blocked drains in strata apartments?
We clear blocked drains in strata apartments and can coordinate with property managers or strata committees for access to common property areas such as basement inspection points or underground pipe runs. When booking, confirm whether the blockage is within your lot boundary or in common property, as responsibility for clearing and payment typically depends on that distinction. We provide documentation suitable for strata maintenance records where required.
What happens if the camera inspection shows pipe damage?
If CCTV inspection reveals structural damage such as collapsed pipe sections, extensive root intrusion, or severe corrosion, we stop and explain the repair options before proceeding. Options typically include trenchless drain relining to seal cracks and restore structural integrity, or full pipe replacement where relining is not viable. We provide a flat-rate quote for the recommended repair approach, including access, materials, and site restoration, so you can decide once scope and cost are confirmed.