Blocked Drain FAQ's in St Johns Park
What actually causes most blocked drains in St Johns Park?
Tree root intrusion is common in areas with aging terracotta or clay sewer pipes, where fine roots enter cracks and expand over time. Kitchen drains often block from grease solidifying as it cools, while bathroom lines clog with hair and soap residue. Foreign objects like sanitary products or wipes flushed down toilets are frequent culprits too. The blockage type determines the clearing method we recommend after CCTV check.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure water jetting for most blockages, which fires water through specialised nozzles to pulverise roots and scour debris from pipe walls without stressing the line. A CCTV CCTV check is done first to identify the blockage type and check for existing pipe damage. For solid foreign objects, an electric drain snake retrieves the item without pushing it deeper. The method chosen depends on what the camera shows.
What's included in your fixed-price quote for blocked drains?
The fixed price covers locating the blockage using camera inspection, clearing it with the appropriate method, and verifying flow has been restored. If camera footage reveals structural damage like cracks or root penetration beyond the blockage itself, those repairs are quoted separately and you decide whether to proceed. The quote is provided after assessment confirms the scope, so you know the cost before starting work.
Can a blocked drain cause sewage to back up inside my house?
Yes. When the main sewer line is completely blocked, wastewater has nowhere to go and will back up through the lowest fixture in your property, often a floor drain, shower, or toilet. This creates a health hazard and potential property damage. If you notice sewage backing up or multiple fixtures draining slowly at once, it's urgent and we dispatch immediately to assess and clear the restriction.
Do tree roots always mean I need to replace the whole pipe?
Not necessarily. If roots have entered through small cracks but the pipe structure is still sound, high-pressure jetting can clear the roots and restore flow. For pipes with significant root damage, offsets, or widespread cracking, drain relining often repairs the line from inside without excavation. Full replacement is only needed when the pipe has collapsed or relining isn't viable. We explain the options once CCTV inspection shows the extent of damage.
How long does it take to clear a typical blocked drain?
Most straightforward blockages in accessible lines are cleared within one to two hours, including inspection and verification. Complex blockages involving root masses, multiple restrictions, or difficult access can take longer. The initial assessment gives you a realistic timeframe once we've confirmed what's causing it and where the blockage sits. Emergency callouts are prioritised to get flow restored as quickly as practical.
What should I do immediately if my drain is backing up?
Stop using all water fixtures to prevent additional wastewater from backing up. If sewage is overflowing, move items away from the problem area and ventilate if safe to do so. Don't attempt to use chemical cleaners on a completely blocked line, as the chemicals can become trapped and create hazardous conditions. Call for an emergency assessment so we can dispatch a NSW-licensed and insured plumber to make it safe and clear the blockage.
How often should drains be inspected to prevent blockages?
For most residential properties, an annual camera inspection of main sewer lines identifies developing issues like root intrusion or pipe deterioration before they cause complete blockages. Properties with mature trees near sewer lines, or older terracotta pipes, benefit from more frequent checks. Preventative inspection costs less than emergency callouts and gives you time to plan repairs if issues are found.
Will your plumber explain what they find during the inspection?
Yes. We show you the camera footage when helpful, explain what's causing the blockage, and walk through the clearing method recommended. If structural damage is visible, we explain whether it needs immediate attention or can be monitored. You'll understand what's involved and the cost before we start work, and we're available to answer questions throughout the process.
Is your drainage work covered by a warranty?
All our workmanship is backed by a Lifetime Labour Warranty, which covers the clearing work and any repairs we complete. Manufacturer warranties apply to any parts or materials installed. If an issue develops with work we've performed, we return to assess and resolve it at no additional charge for the labour. The warranty gives you confidence the repair is done properly and will last.
