Blocked Drain FAQ's in North Narrabeen
What causes blocked drains in North Narrabeen properties?
Blocked drains typically result from debris buildup such as hair, soap scum, grease, and food particles that accumulate over time and restrict water flow. In properties with mature trees, fine roots enter small cracks in aging pipes and expand, trapping additional material until the line is blocked. Foreign objects like sanitary products or wipes flushed down toilets also cause blockages. The specific cause is identified during CCTV CCTV check, which shows the blockage type and location so the right clearing method can be used.
How do you clear blocked drains without damaging pipes?
We use CCTV cameras to locate the blockage and identify what's causing it, then select the clearing method based on the obstruction type. High-pressure water jetting at 3,000+ PSI removes debris, grease, and roots by scouring the pipe walls without damaging the pipe structure. For solid objects or stubborn blockages, mechanical drain snakes break up the obstruction. The camera is run again after clearing to verify the blockage is removed and check for any structural damage that needs attention.
What should I do if my drain is backing up right now?
Stop using the affected fixtures immediately to prevent overflow and further backup. If the blockage is causing sewage backup or flooding, isolate the water supply where safe to do so and arrange an emergency callout. Our 24/7 emergency service prioritises active flooding and sewage backup situations due to the contamination risk and property damage potential. An ETA is provided when you call, and the plumber will stabilise the situation, clear the blockage, and explain what caused it once flow is restored.
Will I know the price before work starts?
Yes. After diagnosing the blockage with camera inspection, we provide a fixed-price quote covering the clearing work before starting. The quote includes the method used, time on site, and any access work needed. The price is by the job, not by the hour, so you're not charged extra if clearing takes longer than expected. If the camera reveals structural damage requiring repair, that's scoped and quoted separately so there's no confusion about what's included in the clearing price.
Can tree roots be cleared without digging up the yard?
In most cases, yes. High-pressure water jetting cuts through roots and scours them from the pipe walls, restoring flow without excavation. The CCTV camera confirms the roots are cleared and checks whether they've caused structural damage such as cracks or displaced joints. If the pipe structure is compromised, trenchless drain relining creates a seamless internal sleeve that seals cracks and prevents future root entry. Excavation is only required if the pipe has collapsed or relining isn't viable for the pipe type.
How quickly can you respond to a drain blockage in North Narrabeen?
We offer same-day service for standard clogged drains where current workload allows, and immediate dispatch for emergency situations involving flooding or sewage backup. Our plumbers are dispatched from nearby Sydney hubs, which allows for typical response times across the Northern Beaches area. An ETA is provided when booking, and arrival timing depends on current job load and traffic conditions. Urgent jobs are prioritised based on risk, with active flooding and contamination hazards sent out first.
What if the blockage happens again after clearing?
If a blockage recurs shortly after clearing, it usually indicates an underlying structural issue such as pipe damage, root intrusion points, or incorrect pipe grading that allows debris to settle. We document these conditions during the camera inspection and explain whether monitoring, relining, or replacement is needed to prevent future blockages. All clearing work is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship, so if the same blockage recurs due to our work, we return and address it at no charge.
Do you charge a call-out fee for blocked drains in North Narrabeen?
Call-out fee policies vary by suburb. When you book, confirm whether a call-out fee applies for your specific location in North Narrabeen and whether it's waived if you proceed with the quoted work. The diagnostic assessment identifies the blockage and provides the information needed for a fixed-price quote, so you're not deciding blindly. There are no hidden costs added at the end; the price quoted is the price paid.
Can you clear blocked stormwater drains as well as sewer drains?
Yes. We clear both sewer and stormwater blockages using the same diagnostic and clearing methods. Stormwater drains typically block from leaf litter, silt buildup, or debris washed in during heavy rain. Sewer drains block from waste buildup, grease, or root intrusion. The CCTV camera identifies which line is affected and what's causing the blockage, then we clear it with high-pressure jetting or mechanical methods depending on the obstruction type and pipe material.
What happens if you find damage during the drain inspection?
If the camera inspection reveals cracks, collapsed sections, or root damage, we document it with camera footage and explain the findings in plain English. You're given the options: whether the damage can be monitored, repaired with trenchless relining, or requires excavation and replacement. We provide a separate fixed-price quote for any structural repair work so you can decide whether to proceed immediately or schedule it separately. The clearing work is completed first to restore flow, then repair work is handled as a distinct job.