Blocked Drain FAQ's in South Maroota
What causes blocked drains in older properties around South Maroota?
Blockages in older properties typically involve tree root intrusion into cracked clay or terracotta pipes, which were standard in homes built before the 1980s. Roots exploit small cracks and grow into the pipe, trapping debris and restricting flow. Fat and grease buildup in kitchen lines, and hair combined with soap scum in bathroom drains, are also common. A CCTV CCTV check confirms the cause and location before clearing work is quoted.
How long does it take to clear a blocked drain in South Maroota?
Clearing time depends on the blockage type and pipe access. Straightforward blockages in accessible lines (like a grease-clogged kitchen drain) are often cleared in under an hour once the plumber is onsite. Root intrusions or blockages deep in external lines take longer, as the CCTV check and high-pressure jetting are more involved. The plumber confirms timing once scope is assessed, and the fixed quote includes the full clearing process and verification.
What should I do if water is backing up into the shower or toilet?
Stop using all plumbing fixtures connected to that drain line to prevent further backup. Active backups indicate a severe blockage in the main sewer line, and continued use worsens the situation. Call a properly licensed, insured plumber immediately for assessment. The plumber uses a CCTV camera to locate the blockage, confirms the clearing method required, and provides a fixed quote before starting. Urgent jobs are dispatched first from the nearest hub, with ETA provided when booking.
Can tree roots damage pipes even if they're not blocking the drain yet?
Yes, tree roots exploit microscopic cracks in aging pipes and gradually expand them over time, even before a blockage forms. Once roots enter the pipe, they trap debris and accelerate blockage formation. Regular CCTV inspections identify early root intrusion before it causes complete blockages. If roots are found, high-pressure jetting clears them, and pipe relining may be recommended to seal the entry points and prevent regrowth.
Is there a call-out fee for drain blockage services in South Maroota?
Call-out fee arrangements vary by service area and job type. Confirm the call-out fee status when booking, as it depends on your specific location within South Maroota and whether the job proceeds. If the job proceeds after assessment, call-out fees are often waived or absorbed into the overall fixed quote. Urgent emergency callouts may have different arrangements, which are explained when you phone to book.
What's involved in a CCTV drain camera inspection?
A small waterproof camera on a flexible cable is fed into the drain line to visually inspect the pipe interior. The camera transmits live footage to a monitor, showing the blockage type, location, and pipe condition. This confirms whether the restriction is grease, roots, or a foreign object, and whether the pipe has cracks or structural damage. The inspection takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on line length, and findings are explained before quoting the clearing work.
How do you clear a drain without damaging the pipes?
Clearing method depends on what the camera inspection shows. High-pressure water jetting is used for grease, roots, and soft debris; the nozzle fires water at controlled pressure (3,000 to 5,000 PSI) to scour buildup without damaging PVC, clay, or cast iron pipes. For harder obstructions like metal objects, an electric drain snake breaks up or retrieves the blockage mechanically. The camera inspection beforehand confirms the pipe can handle the clearing method, avoiding damage from incorrect pressure or tool selection.
Can blocked drains cause structural damage to the property?
Yes, prolonged blockages cause water to back up and overflow from fixtures, leading to water damage in floors, walls, and subfloors. Overflowing sewage introduces health risks and requires professional cleanup. In external lines, blocked stormwater drains can cause water pooling around foundations, potentially undermining footings over time. Addressing blockages promptly prevents these escalations. If structural damage has already occurred, we explain what plumbing repairs are needed and recommend contacting your insurer for property damage claims.
What happens if the CCTV check shows the pipe is cracked or collapsed?
If the inspection reveals structural damage beyond a simple blockage, we explain the options: pipe lining for internal cracks and root entry points (avoiding excavation), or excavation and pipe replacement for collapsed sections. Each option is quoted separately as a fixed price, and you decide which approach fits your situation and budget. The original blockage clearing may still be completed first to restore immediate drainage, with structural repairs scheduled as a follow-up job if preferred.
How often should drains be inspected to prevent blockages?
For properties with mature trees near drainage lines or a history of blockages, annual CCTV inspections identify early root intrusion or buildup before complete blockages form. For newer properties or those without recurring issues, inspections are typically only needed when symptoms appear (slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or odours). Regular maintenance such as avoiding fat and grease disposal in sinks, and using drain guards to catch hair, reduces blockage frequency and extends time between inspections.
