Blocked Drain FAQ's in Guildford West
What causes blocked drains in Guildford West properties?
Drainage blockages in Guildford West commonly result from grease and food scraps solidifying in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum building up in bathroom drains, or tree roots entering cracks in aging terracotta or clay pipes. Foreign objects like wipes and hygiene products flushed into toilets also cause restrictions. The specific cause is confirmed with a CCTV camera inspection before clearing begins.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure water jetting for most blockages, with specialized nozzles that scour debris and roots from pipe walls without harming the structure. For solid foreign objects, a mechanical drain snake is used to retrieve or break up the obstruction. If the CCTV inspection shows structural damage such as cracks or collapse, we explain repair or relining options and confirm scope before proceeding with any additional work beyond clearing.
What does a CCTV drain inspection show?
A CCTV drain CCTV check provides a real-time video feed from inside the pipe, showing the blockage type, exact location, and pipe condition. This allows us to see whether the restriction is caused by debris, roots, or structural failure, and to measure the depth and distance from the access point. The inspection footage helps confirm the clearing method and whether pipe repair or relining is needed after the blockage is removed.
How long does it take to clear a blocked drain?
Clearing a typical blockage takes between 30 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the restriction location, cause, and access. Simple kitchen or bathroom blockages near the fixture are usually cleared quickly. External blockages involving tree roots or deeper restrictions take longer due to the jetting or mechanical clearing process required. The time estimate is provided after the initial assessment confirms what's involved.
Can tree roots be removed from drainage pipes permanently?
Tree roots can be cleared from pipes using high-pressure jetting, which cuts through root masses and scours the pipe interior. However, if the pipe has cracks or joints where roots entered, they will regrow over time unless the pipe is repaired or relined. Pipe relining creates a seamless internal barrier that prevents future root intrusion, offering a long-term solution where excavation and replacement would otherwise be needed.
What should I do if sewage is backing up into my home?
If sewage is backing up, stop using all fixtures immediately to prevent further overflow, then call us for emergency dispatch. Avoid contact with the sewage and keep children and pets away from the affected area. We'll send a properly licensed plumbing professional to assess the blockage location, clear the restriction to restore flow and safety, then explain what caused the backup and whether pipe repair is needed to prevent recurrence.
Are chemical drain cleaners safe for blocked drains?
Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh acids or alkalis that can corrode pipe materials over time, particularly older metal or plastic fittings. They're sometimes effective for minor blockages but often fail against solid obstructions, grease buildup, or tree roots. If used incorrectly or mixed with other chemicals, they can create hazardous fumes or reactions. Professional clearing with water jetting or mechanical tools is safer for your pipes and more effective for stubborn blockages.
How often should drains be inspected and maintained?
For most residential properties, an annual drain inspection and maintenance clean is sufficient to prevent blockages from building up. Properties with mature trees near sewer lines, older pipe materials, or a history of recurring blockages may benefit from more frequent checks. A CCTV check every 1-2 years allows early detection of root intrusion or pipe deterioration before a complete blockage occurs, reducing the risk of emergency callouts and property damage.
Is there a call-out fee for blocked drain service in Guildford West?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by suburb and service type. Many areas have no call-out fee, but it's worth confirming when you book. If a call-out fee applies, it's disclosed upfront before the visit is arranged. Once onsite, we provide a fixed price quote for the clearing work, and you decide whether to proceed after seeing the total cost.
What's included in a fixed-price drain cleaning quote?
A fixed-price quote for drain unblocking includes the initial assessment, CCTV CCTV inspection if needed to locate the blockage, clearing the restriction using water jetting or mechanical tools, testing flow to verify the line is restored, and site cleanup. The quote is provided after confirming the blockage location and access requirements. If the inspection reveals structural damage or additional issues beyond the initial blockage, those repairs are explained and quoted separately before any extra work proceeds.
