Blocked Drain FAQ's in Doonside
What usually causes blocked drains in Doonside properties?
Blocked drains in Doonside typically result from tree root intrusion in older terracotta or clay pipes, fat and grease buildup in kitchen lines, or foreign objects flushed into toilets. Properties built during the 1960s and 1970s expansion often have aging pipe materials that roots exploit. We use CCTV inspection to identify the blockage type and location, then clear it with high-pressure jetting or mechanical methods depending on what the camera reveals.
How do you clear a blocked drain without digging up the yard?
We use high-definition CCTV inspection equipment to locate the blockage within your property boundary, then clear it with high-pressure water jetting, which pulverises roots and scours grease from pipe walls without excavation. If the camera shows structural damage requiring repair, trenchless drain relining allows us to repair the pipe from the inside without digging. The options are explained and quoted once inspection confirms the scope.
What should I do if my drain is completely blocked and water is backing up?
Stop using all water fixtures to prevent further backflow, and arrange an assessment so a licensed and insured plumber can locate and clear the blockage. If the blockage is in the sewer line and causing sewage backflow, this is urgent and requires immediate professional attention to prevent health risks and property damage. We're available 24/7 for emergency drainage work across Doonside.
Can tree roots cause permanent damage to drainage pipes?
Yes. Tree roots seeking moisture enter microscopic cracks in aging pipes, then expand and trap debris, causing blockages. Over time, root intrusion can crack or collapse pipe sections. CCTV check shows whether roots have caused structural damage. If jetting clears the blockage but the pipe structure is compromised, trenchless relining or targeted excavation may be required to prevent recurrence.
How much does it cost to clear a drain blockage in Doonside?
The cost depends on the blockage location, cause, and access. We provide a fixed-price quote after diagnosing the fault with CCTV inspection, so you know the cost before work starts. The price is by the job, not by the hour, and there are no hidden fees. If inspection reveals additional work such as pipe repair, the options are explained and quoted separately before proceeding.
Do you charge a call-out fee to inspect a drain blockage?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area. Confirm the call-out fee status for Doonside when booking. If a call-out fee applies, it typically covers the diagnostic visit and is explained upfront. Once scope is confirmed on site and a fixed quote is provided, you can decide whether to proceed with the repair.
How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage?
Most accessible internal or external blockages are cleared within one to two hours, including CCTV check, jetting, and verification. Timing depends on blockage severity, pipe access, and whether structural damage is found. If relining or excavation is required, the work is scheduled and timeframes are confirmed once scope is agreed.
Can you clear a blocked drain the same day I call?
Same-day service is available for most standard drainage jobs, subject to technician availability and current bookings. Urgent jobs are dispatched first from West Sydney hubs, and we provide ETA updates where possible. When you call, we confirm availability and arrange the earliest suitable time based on access and urgency.
What's the difference between a blocked drain and a blocked sewer?
A blocked drain typically affects a single fixture like a sink or shower. A blocked sewer affects multiple fixtures and often causes sewage backflow, which is a health risk and requires urgent attention. CCTV inspection identifies whether the blockage is in an internal drain line or the main sewer line, which determines the clearing method and scope.
Is high-pressure water jetting safe for old pipes?
High-pressure water jetting is safe for most pipe materials when performed by licensed professionals using the correct pressure settings. We inspect pipes with CCTV first to assess their condition, then adjust jetting pressure to suit the pipe material and age. If pipes are severely corroded or fragile, we use alternative methods or recommend repair before clearing to avoid causing further damage.
