Blocked Drain FAQ's in North Sydney
What causes most drain blockage issues in North Sydney properties?
Drain blockages in North Sydney typically result from tree root intrusion in older terracotta sewer lines, grease buildup in kitchen drains, or foreign objects flushed down toilets. Older apartment buildings often have original clay pipes that develop cracks over time, allowing roots from street trees to enter and trap passing debris. In kitchen lines, fat and oil cool and solidify on pipe walls, narrowing the diameter until water backs up.
How do you locate a blockage without digging up the property?
We use a high-definition CCTV drain camera inserted through an access point like a floor waste or inspection opening. The camera follows the pipe run and provides a live view of the interior, showing the exact blockage type, location, and distance from the entry point. That footage allows us to select the right clearing method and confirm whether the pipe structure is intact or requires repair.
What's the difference between hydro jetting and using a drain snake?
High-pressure water jetting fires water at 3,000 to 5,000 PSI to pulverize roots and scour grease from pipe walls, restoring near-full flow. A mechanical drain snake uses a rotating cable to break up or retrieve solid obstructions like compacted wipes or foreign objects. The choice depends on what the CCTV check reveals; organic material responds best to jetting, while solid objects may need mechanical retrieval.
Can you clear blocked drains in high-rise apartment buildings?
Yes. High-rise drainage work often requires coordination with strata managers for common-property access and confirmation of which sections fall under individual lot ownership versus shared infrastructure. We bring appropriately sized equipment for tight access, confirm site requirements upfront, and provide documentation suitable for strata records. Parking and lift access are arranged when booking to avoid delays onsite.
What should I do if a drain is backing up right now?
Stop using all water outlets connected to that drain to prevent further overflow. If sewage is backing up through floor drains or toilets, avoid contact and ventilate the area if safe to do so. Call us immediately for emergency dispatch, we'll send the nearest available licensed plumber and can provide brief safety guidance while they're on the way. Do not attempt to clear the blockage yourself with chemicals or tools, as that can worsen the situation or damage pipes.
How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage?
A straightforward blockage in an accessible line, such as a grease buildup in a kitchen drain or a root intrusion in an external sewer, typically takes one to two hours to diagnose, clear, and verify. Complex blockages involving structural damage, difficult access, or multiple affected lines may require additional time or a follow-up visit if specialist equipment or parts are needed. The quote provided after assessment includes the expected timeframe.
What happens if the camera shows the pipe has collapsed?
If the CCTV inspection reveals structural failure, a crushed section, corrosion, or collapse, we explain the repair options and provide a fixed quote before proceeding with any additional work. Clearing the blockage alone won't prevent recurrence if the pipe structure is compromised. Options typically include trenchless drain relining (which creates an internal seal without excavation) or traditional pipe replacement, depending on the damage extent and site access.
Do you provide warranties on drain cleaning work?
Yes. All drain clearing and repair work is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship, which covers the quality of the work we complete. If a cleared blockage recurs due to a fault in our clearing process, we'll return to address it at no additional charge. Manufacturer warranties apply to any replacement parts or hardware installed. The warranty terms are explained when the quote is provided, so you know exactly what's covered.
Can tree roots grow back after they've been cleared from a drain?
Yes. If the pipe has cracks or joints that allowed roots to enter originally, they can grow back over time unless the entry points are sealed. High-pressure jetting removes existing roots, but it doesn't repair the structural damage. If the camera shows multiple cracks or widespread root intrusion, we'll recommend pipe relining to seal the interior and prevent future root entry, which is more cost-effective long-term than repeated clearing.
How much does it cost to clear a blocked drain in North Sydney?
The cost depends on the blockage location, access difficulty, and clearing method required. A simple kitchen or bathroom drain blockage accessible from inside the property typically costs less than a deep sewer blockage requiring excavation or confined space entry. We provide a fixed-price quote after assessing the job onsite and confirming the scope, so you know the total cost before work starts. Call-out fees and after-hours rates may apply; confirm those details when you book.
