How We Clear Blocked Drains in South Hurstville
We clear blocked drains by first running a high-definition CCTV camera through the affected line to locate the restriction and identify what's causing it. That camera feed shows us whether it's a buildup of grease and debris, an object lodged in the pipe, or tree roots that have entered through cracks or joints. The inspection also confirms the pipe material and condition, which determines the clearing method we use.
For most blockages involving organic debris, soap scum, or grease, we use hydro jetting (hydro-jetting). The jetter fires water at controlled pressure, typically between 3,000 and 5,000 PSI, through a specialized nozzle that scours the pipe walls and flushes the obstruction out to the main sewer or a downstream access point. This method is effective for clearing fat buildup in kitchen waste lines and removing tree roots that haven't caused structural damage yet.
When a solid object is lodged (like a child's toy, sanitary product, or construction debris), we may use an electric drain snake (sometimes called an electric eel). The rotating cable with a cutting head breaks up or retrieves the object without damaging PVC, copper, or cast iron pipes. We select the tool size and head type based on what the camera shows and the pipe diameter we're working with.
After clearing, we run the camera back through to verify the line is open and check for any structural issues the blockage may have hidden, cracks, joint separation, root intrusion points, or pipe sagging. If the camera reveals damage, we explain what we found, what it means for future drainage performance, and provide separate pricing for repair options like pipe patching, section replacement, or trenchless relining. You're not committed to repair work; the quote for clearing stands on its own, and any additional work is confirmed and priced separately before we proceed.
We also check the flow rate after clearing by running water through the affected fixture and observing how quickly it drains. That test confirms the blockage is fully removed and the line is functioning as it should. If there's residual slow drainage, we'll investigate further rather than calling the job complete.
This process applies to internal waste lines (sinks, showers, toilets, laundry tubs), external sewer lines, and stormwater drains. For blocked kitchen sinks, the restriction is usually in the trap or the waste pipe leading to the stack. For blocked showers, hair and soap buildup in the trap and waste line is the common culprit. Toilet blockages often involve inappropriate items being flushed, wet wipes, sanitary products, excessive toilet paper, which don't break down like standard waste.
What Causes Drainage Blockages in South Hurstville Properties
Blockages in South Hurstville properties typically trace back to a few recurring patterns. In older sections of the suburb where original terracotta or clay pipes are still in service, tree root intrusion is common. Roots seeking moisture enter the pipe through hairline cracks or deteriorated joints, then expand inside the line as they grow. Over time, the root mass traps debris and reduces flow capacity until the line blocks completely.
Kitchen waste lines often block due to fat, oil, and grease (FOG) being poured down the sink. As the liquid cools in the pipe, it solidifies and coats the walls, narrowing the diameter. Food scraps, coffee grounds, and other organic matter then stick to the grease layer, accelerating the buildup. Even with regular hot water supply flushing, FOG accumulation eventually requires mechanical clearing.
Bathroom blockages usually involve hair combined with soap scum in shower and basin waste lines. Hair binds with the soap residue to form a dense mat that water can't push through. In toilets, blockages occur when items that don't dissolve, wet wipes labelled "flushable," sanitary products, cotton buds, excessive paper, are flushed and become lodged in the trap or the waste pipe beyond the pan.
Stormwater drains block when leaves, silt, and debris enter through gully traps or downpipe connections. During heavy rain, the volume of water carries loose material into the system faster than it can flush through, causing temporary blockages at bends or low points in the line. In some cases, improper grading or collapsed sections create permanent low spots where debris accumulates after each storm event.
We also see blockages caused by construction waste (concrete, grout, plaster) being washed into drains during renovations, or by foreign objects (toys, bottle caps, hygiene products) entering the system through accessible access points. Once we've cleared the blockage and run the CCTV inspection, we'll explain what we found and whether the cause suggests a one-off event or a pattern that's likely to recur without changes to usage or pipe condition.
Pricing and What's Included in the Quote
Our pricing model is fixed and upfront, meaning you'll know the cost before we start clearing the drain. After we've assessed the blockage with the CCTV camera and confirmed what's involved, we provide a written quote that includes the clearing work, verification, and site cleanup. The price is set by the job and the scope we've identified, not by how long it takes us to complete it.
That fixed quote covers the diagnosis (camera inspection), the clearing method required (jetting or mechanical), re-inspection after clearing to verify the line is open, and removal of any debris generated during the work. If the job is straightforward, a grease blockage in a kitchen waste line or a hair clog in a shower drain, the quote reflects that. If the blockage is deeper in the system, involves root cutting, or requires multiple access points, the quote accounts for the additional work required.
For call-out fees, many South Hurstville properties fall within our standard service area where the call-out fee structure varies depending on the time and nature of the job. When you book, we'll confirm whether a call-out fee applies to your property and what it covers. If the job proceeds, the call-out fee is typically absorbed into the total cost, but we'll make that clear before dispatch.
There are no hidden costs. If the camera inspection reveals structural damage or additional work beyond clearing the blockage (like a cracked pipe section that needs replacing), we'll provide separate pricing for that work. You're not obligated to proceed with repairs; the clearing work stands on its own. We explain the scope, the cost, and what happens if you choose to defer the repair, so you can make an informed decision based on your priorities and budget.
We accept payment by all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and we provide a detailed invoice suitable for landlords, property managers, and business records. If you're claiming the work through insurance or strata, the invoice includes the breakdown and verification details required for lodgement.
For customers mentioning "web55" when booking, we offer $55 off the quoted price (limited to one use per person and applies to paying jobs only). That discount is applied at the time of payment, not deducted from the quote itself, so the written quote reflects the full price and the discount is noted separately on the invoice.
Emergency Drainage Callouts and Same-Day Availability
Drainage emergencies happen when sewage backs up into the property, when a toilet overflows and won't stop, or when an external gully trap floods during rain and water starts pooling inside. These situations need urgent attention to prevent property damage and health risks.
For emergency callouts, we dispatch the nearest available licensed plumbing professional from our West Sydney hub. Urgent jobs are prioritized in the dispatch queue, meaning they're sent out ahead of scheduled maintenance work. We provide an estimated time of arrival when you book, and the plumber will contact you if traffic conditions or a prior job delay affect that ETA.
When the plumber arrives, the priority is to make the situation safe and stop the immediate problem, isolating the affected fixture, clearing access to the blockage point, and preventing further overflow. Once the emergency is stabilized, we assess the cause, explain what's needed to restore normal drainage, and provide a fixed-price quote for the clearing work. If you choose to proceed, we complete the job onsite where conditions allow. If the fault requires parts, equipment, or daylight access, we'll arrange a return visit and provide temporary measures to keep the system functional in the meantime.
Same-day availability is standard for non-emergency drainage work during business hours, provided we receive the booking early enough in the day to allocate a plumber before the schedule fills. For after-hours or weekend bookings, availability depends on the current workload, but we aim to attend the same day wherever possible. When you call, we'll confirm the earliest available time slot and what the first visit will involve.
Emergency callouts incur different pricing than scheduled work due to the immediate dispatch and priority allocation. We explain the cost structure when you book so there's no confusion about what you're agreeing to. The fixed-price model still applies, you'll receive a quote before clearing work starts, and that price won't change based on how long the job takes.
Burst Pipe Response in South Hurstville
A ruptured pipe typically shows up as a sudden drop in water pressure, visible water leaking from walls or ceilings, damp patches spreading across floors, or water pooling in the yard where no irrigation is running. The priority is isolating the water supply to stop the leak and prevent further damage.
If you're confident locating your property's main water shutoff valve, turning it off will stop the flow until we arrive. If you're unsure where the valve is or can't operate it safely, leave it alone and call us immediately. Our emergency dispatch will send a fully licensed NSW plumber to locate the burst, isolate the water supply, and assess the damage.
Burst pipes occur for several reasons: corrosion in aging galvanized steel or copper pipes, ground movement stressing rigid pipe sections, freezing conditions (rare in Sydney but possible in exposed external lines), or impact damage during excavation or construction work. Once we've isolated the water supply and confirmed where the burst occurred, we assess whether a section replacement is needed or whether the pipe can be patched temporarily while a permanent repair is scheduled.
For internal burst pipes (behind walls, under floors, in ceilings), we use electronic leak detection equipment to pinpoint the exact location before cutting into finished surfaces. That minimizes the access opening required and reduces the repair scope. For external bursts in yard or driveway areas, we excavate only the section needed to access the damaged pipe, replace or repair it, then pressure-test the line before backfilling.
Our pipe lining service is available where the burst is part of a broader deterioration pattern in the existing pipework. Relining involves inserting a resin-saturated liner into the damaged pipe, inflating it to conform to the pipe walls, and curing it in place to create a new, seamless pipe inside the old one. This method works for PVC, clay, cast iron, and concrete pipes, provided the original structure hasn't completely collapsed. It's often recommended when excavation would disrupt driveways, landscaping, or permanent structures.
We provide a fixed-fee quote after assessing the burst location, the pipe material, and the access required. The quote includes isolation, repair or replacement, pressure testing, and site restoration (backfilling, compacting, and levelling disturbed ground). If additional pipework faults are discovered during the repair (like nearby corrosion or joint failure), we'll provide separate pricing for addressing those issues. You're not obligated to proceed with additional work; the burst repair stands alone.
CCTV Drain Inspections and What They Show
A CCTV drain inspection involves inserting a high-definition camera mounted on a flexible cable into the drain line through an existing access point (cleanout, gully trap, or removed fixture). The camera transmits live video to a monitor, allowing us to see the inside of the pipe in real time as we navigate through the system.
The inspection shows the pipe material (PVC, clay, cast iron, concrete), the internal condition (smooth, corroded, root-damaged, cracked), the presence and type of blockage (grease, debris, roots, foreign objects), and the exact distance from the entry point to any faults or restrictions. That distance measurement is recorded so we can pinpoint where to excavate if repairs are needed, avoiding unnecessary digging.
We use CCTV inspections before clearing blockages to confirm what we're dealing with and select the right clearing method. We also use them after clearing to verify the line is fully open and check for structural issues the blockage may have hidden. If the post-clearing inspection reveals cracks, joint separation, root intrusion points, or pipe sagging, we'll show you the camera footage, explain what it means, and provide options for repair.
For properties with recurring blockages, a camera inspection often identifies the underlying cause, a low spot in the line where debris accumulates, a collapsed section reducing flow capacity, or tree roots that have breached the pipe at multiple points. Once we know the cause, we can recommend permanent solutions (pipe replacement, relining, root barrier installation) rather than repeatedly clearing the same blockage.
The inspection footage can be recorded and provided to you on request, which is useful if you're claiming work through insurance, selling the property, or coordinating repairs with strata or council. The video serves as documented evidence of the fault and the work performed, which satisfies most compliance and reporting requirements.
Tree Root Removal and Long-Term Management
Tree roots enter drainage pipes through cracks, deteriorated joints, or gaps where sections connect. Once inside, the roots grow toward the moisture and nutrient-rich environment inside the pipe, expanding into a dense mass that traps debris and eventually blocks the line completely.
We remove tree roots using high-pressure water jetting with a root-cutting nozzle, or by using a mechanical root cutter attached to a drain snake. The jetting nozzle fires water jets forward and backward, cutting through the root mass and flushing the debris downstream. The mechanical cutter uses rotating blades to shear the roots off at the pipe wall, clearing the line without damaging the pipe itself (provided the pipe is still structurally sound).
Root cutting is a temporary solution. The roots will regrow into the pipe unless the entry point is sealed or the pipe is replaced. For properties with recurring root intrusion, we typically recommend one of three long-term approaches:
- Pipe relining: A resin liner is installed inside the existing pipe, sealing the cracks and joints where roots entered and creating a smooth, root-resistant surface. This stops future intrusion without excavation.
- Pipe replacement: The affected section is excavated and replaced with new PVC pipe, which is joined with rubber gasket fittings that resist root penetration. This approach is permanent but requires digging.
- Root barrier installation: A physical or chemical root barrier is installed between the tree and the pipe to redirect root growth away from the line. This works best for newly planted trees or where the pipe cannot be economically replaced.
We explain these options after clearing the roots and inspecting the pipe condition with the CCTV camera. The right approach depends on the pipe material, the extent of root damage, the location of the affected section, and your priorities (cost, permanence, minimal disruption). We provide separate pricing for each option so you can choose based on your situation.
For immediate relief, root cutting restores drainage and buys time to plan a permanent solution. Most customers choose to clear the roots initially, then schedule relining or replacement during a planned maintenance window when access and timing are more convenient.
What to Expect During the First Visit
The first visit involves assessment, diagnosis, and quoting. When the plumber arrives, they'll confirm the affected fixtures, ask about symptoms (slow drainage, gurgling, overflow, odour), and identify the most likely access point for inspection. That access point is usually an external cleanout, gully trap, or removable fixture (like a toilet pan or shower grate).
We start by running the CCTV camera into the line to locate the blockage and identify the cause. The inspection typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how far into the system the blockage is located and whether multiple lines are affected. You're welcome to watch the camera feed on the monitor as we navigate through the pipe, it helps you understand what we're seeing and why we're recommending a particular clearing method.
Once the blockage is located and the cause confirmed, we explain what's needed to clear it, what tools we'll use, and how we'll verify the line is open afterward. We then provide a fixed-price quote that includes diagnosis, clearing, verification, and cleanup. The quote is written and itemized, so you can see what's included and what the total cost will be.
If you approve the quote, we proceed with clearing the blockage onsite using the appropriate method (jetting or mechanical). After clearing, we re-run the camera to confirm the line is open and check for any structural issues. That verification step is included in the quoted price, it's not an optional add-on.
If the camera inspection reveals damage (cracks, root entry points, collapsed sections), we'll show you the footage, explain the implications, and provide separate pricing for repair work. You're not obligated to proceed with repairs during the same visit; the clearing work is complete and functional on its own. Many customers choose to clear the blockage immediately and schedule repairs later when timing and budget allow.
For jobs where parts are needed (replacement trap, new access point, pipe fittings), we'll confirm whether we have the parts on the truck or need to source them. Most standard parts are stocked in our mobile workshops, but specialty items or older fittings may require ordering. If a part is needed, we'll provide a timeline for the return visit and any temporary measures required to keep the system functional in the meantime.
We clean up the work area before leaving, removing debris generated during the clearing, wiping down surfaces around the access point, and ensuring no mess is left behind. If we've opened a fixture (like removing a toilet or shower grate), we reinstall it and verify it's sealed and functional before finishing.
Gas Fitting and Leak Detection Services
Gas work requires a licensed gas fitter due to the safety risks involved. All our attending technicians hold NSW gas fitting licences and are trained in leak detection, appliance installation, and compliance testing. Gas fitting services in South Hurstville include installing new gas points for cooktops and heaters, connecting gas hot water systems, repairing leaks, and conducting pressure testing to verify system integrity.
If you smell gas (a distinctive "rotten egg" odour added to natural gas for detection), hear hissing near appliances or pipes, or notice dying vegetation over underground gas lines, evacuate the property immediately and call us from a safe location. Do not operate light switches, appliances, or anything that could create a spark. Our emergency dispatch will send a licensed gas fitter to assess the situation, isolate the gas supply if needed, and locate the source of the leak.
We use electronic gas detectors and thermal imaging to pinpoint leaks in walls, sub-floors, and underground lines without invasive exploratory work. Once the leak is located, we assess whether the affected section can be repaired or needs replacement. After completing the repair, we conduct a pressure loss test, required under AS/NZS 5601.1, to confirm the system is gas-tight before recommissioning.
For new gas fitting installations, we handle the design, pipework, connection, and compliance certification. All gas work in NSW requires a compliance certificate to be issued upon completion, verifying the installation meets safety standards. We provide that certificate as part of the completed job, which you'll need for council records and insurance purposes.
Gas hot water systems and gas cooking appliances require proper ventilation, clearance from combustible materials, and secure connections to prevent leaks. We confirm these requirements are met during installation and explain the maintenance schedule for keeping the system safe and functional.
Hot Water System Repairs and Replacement
Hot water system faults typically present as no hot water, fluctuating temperatures, rust-coloured water, unusual noises (rumbling, popping), or visible leaks from the tank or connections. The cause depends on the system type (electric storage, gas continuous flow, gas storage, heat pump) and the age of the unit.
For electric storage systems, the most common faults are failed heating elements, faulty thermostats, or a corroded sacrificial anode rod that's allowed the tank to rust internally. For gas systems, issues include pilot light failure, burner blockages, faulty thermocouples, or gas valve problems. Heat pump systems can develop refrigerant leaks, compressor failures, or control board faults.
When we assess a hot water unit, we check the power supply (for electric systems), the gas supply (for gas systems), the pressure relief valve operation, the tempering valve output temperature, and the condition of the tank and pipework. That diagnostic process confirms whether the fault is repairable or whether replacement is the more economical option.
For units under five years old, repairs are usually worthwhile provided the tank itself isn't corroded. For units over ten years old, replacement often makes more sense than investing in repairs, especially if the tank is showing rust or the system is no longer efficient. We explain the cost comparison, repair versus replacement, and let you decide based on your priorities and budget.
We install and service all major hot water brands including Rheem, Dux, Rinnai, Vulcan, Aquamax, and Thermann. When replacing a system, we assess the household's hot water demand, the available space, the energy source (electric, gas, solar), and any compliance requirements (like tempering valve installation). We then recommend a system that suits your usage pattern and provide pricing for supply and installation.
All hot water installations include connection to existing pipework, electrical or gas supply (with compliance certification for gas), pressure testing, tempering valve installation or replacement (required under NSW regulations), and commissioning. We verify the system is delivering hot water at the correct temperature and pressure before finishing, and we explain the warranty terms and maintenance schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blocked Drains in South Hurstville
What's the most common cause of blocked drains in South Hurstville?
Grease buildup in kitchen waste lines and tree root intrusion in older sewer pipes are the two most common causes we see. Grease solidifies as it cools and traps debris, while tree roots enter through cracks in aging terracotta or clay pipes. Both require professional clearing, grease responds well to high-pressure jetting, and roots need mechanical cutting or hydro-jetting with a root nozzle.
How much does it cost to clear a drain blockage?
The cost depends on the blockage location, depth, and cause. After we've assessed the fault with a CCTV camera and confirmed what's involved, we provide a fixed-price quote that includes clearing, verification, and cleanup. The price is set by the job and doesn't change based on how long it takes. We explain the call-out fee status for your property when you book, and whether it's absorbed into the total if the job proceeds.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to clear a blockage?
Chemical cleaners work for minor surface blockages (hair near the trap, light grease), but they can corrode pipes over time and aren't effective for deeper blockages or tree roots. If you've already tried a chemical cleaner and the drain is still blocked, that usually means the restriction is beyond the trap or the pipe material is resistant to the chemical. At that point, mechanical clearing or jetting is needed to restore flow.
How do I know if the blockage is on my property or in the council main?
If only one fixture is affected (one sink, one shower), the blockage is likely within your internal pipework. If multiple fixtures are affected or sewage is backing up through external gully traps, the blockage may be in your sewer line between the house and the main. If your neighbours are also experiencing drainage issues, the blockage is likely in the council main. We can confirm the boundary responsibility during the inspection and explain whether the repair is your responsibility or council's.
Will the clearing work damage my pipes?
High-pressure water jetting and mechanical drain snakes are designed to clear blockages without damaging structurally sound pipes. We adjust the pressure and tool size based on the pipe material and diameter confirmed during the camera inspection. If the pipes are already deteriorated (badly corroded, cracked, or root-damaged), we'll identify that during the inspection and explain the risks before proceeding. In most cases, clearing work is safe for pipes in reasonable condition.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Most straightforward blockages (grease in a kitchen line, hair in a shower drain) are cleared within one to two hours, including diagnosis, clearing, and verification. Deeper blockages, root intrusion, or faults requiring multiple access points take longer. We'll provide a timeframe estimate after assessing the fault, so you know what to expect before starting work.
Do you provide a warranty on drain clearing work?
Yes. Our Lifetime Labour Warranty covers the workmanship, meaning if the same section blocks again due to how we cleared it, we'll return and fix it at no additional labour cost. The warranty doesn't cover new blockages caused by ongoing usage (like pouring more grease down the drain) or external factors (like roots regrowing into an unsealed crack). We explain the warranty terms and what's covered before you approve the quote.
What should I do if my drain blocks after hours or on the weekend?
Call our emergency number (1800 349 338) and explain the situation. If sewage is backing up into the property or water is overflowing and causing damage, we'll dispatch a plumber immediately. If the blockage is inconvenient but not causing immediate damage, we can schedule a same-day or next-day visit depending on availability. Emergency callouts incur different pricing than scheduled work due to the immediate dispatch, and we'll explain the cost structure when you book.
Can you clear tree roots without digging up my yard?
Yes, in most cases. We use high-pressure jetting or mechanical root cutters to clear roots from inside the pipe, restoring flow without excavation. If the pipe is severely damaged by root intrusion, we may recommend pipe relining (a no-dig repair method) or section replacement, which does require excavation. We'll show you the camera footage after clearing the roots and explain whether the pipe condition supports a no-dig solution or requires excavation.
How often should drains be inspected or maintained?
For most residential properties, an inspection isn't needed unless you're experiencing symptoms (slow drainage, recurring blockages, odours). If your property has a history of root intrusion or aging pipework, an annual CCTV inspection can identify issues before they cause blockages. We recommend inspection when selling or buying a property, after major landscaping work near sewer lines, or if you're noticing any changes in drainage performance.
