Blocked Drain FAQ's in Telopea
What typically causes blocked drains in Telopea properties?
Blocked drains in Telopea are commonly caused by tree roots entering aging terracotta or clay pipes through hairline cracks, grease and fat solidifying in kitchen lines, or soap residue and hair accumulating in bathroom drains. Older suburbs with established trees see more root intrusion, while kitchen blockages usually involve fat, oil, and grease (FOG) that cools and traps food waste. Diagnosis with a CCTV camera confirms the obstruction type and location before clearing.
How do plumbers clear blocked drains in Telopea?
We use high-definition CCTV cameras to locate the blockage and identify the cause, then clear it with hydro jetting at 3,000 to 5,000 PSI. This method breaks apart roots, scours grease from pipe walls, and flushes debris without damaging the pipe. If inspection shows structural damage like cracks or collapsed sections, we explain replacement or relining options and provide a separate flat-rate quote before proceeding with that work.
How quickly can Fixed Today reach Telopea for emergency drainage?
We dispatch from West Sydney, which typically allows allocation within standard response windows for the Parramatta area. Emergency jobs are sent out immediately to the nearest available licensed and insured plumbing technician, and you receive an ETA when booking. Arrival timing depends on current job load and traffic conditions, but urgent situations are prioritised and you're updated if delays occur. Same-day service is available for most standard bookings when you call early.
What's included in the fixed price quote for blocked drains?
The fixed-price quote covers diagnosis with camera inspection, clearing the blockage with high-pressure jetting, and verifying flow is restored. It's priced by the job, not by the hour, and there are no hidden fees. If the CCTV inspection reveals structural damage requiring relining or pipe replacement, that's quoted separately and you decide whether to proceed. Call-out fee policies vary by suburb, so confirm the status for Telopea when booking.
Can tree roots be permanently removed from sewer pipes?
High-pressure water jetting clears tree roots from sewer pipes and restores flow, but roots regrow over time if the pipe still has cracks or joints where moisture escapes. Pipe relining creates a seamless internal barrier that prevents future root entry by sealing cracks and joints. It's a permanent solution that avoids excavation and is suitable for accessible sewer lines that haven't completely collapsed. We explain both options after CCTV inspection shows the extent of root intrusion.
What should I do immediately if a drain backs up?
Stop using water in the affected area to prevent overflow and further backup. Don't pour chemicals down the drain as they rarely work on severe blockages and can make the situation worse if the line is completely blocked. If sewage is backing up inside the home or there's a strong odour, call us for urgent dispatch. We'll assess the blockage location with a camera, clear it, and check for damage that could cause future issues.
Are blocked drains covered by home insurance in Telopea?
Home insurance policies vary, but many cover sudden and unexpected damage caused by broken pipes or sewage backups, though not the cost of clearing a routine blockage. Check your policy wording or contact your insurer for clarification. We provide detailed job documentation and photos from CCTV inspections that are suitable for insurance claims if the blockage caused water damage or if related pipe repairs are covered.
How often should drains be inspected to prevent blockages?
For properties with established trees near sewer lines or a history of slow drainage, an annual CCTV inspection identifies developing issues before they become complete blockages. Properties with newer PVC pipes and no recurring problems typically don't need routine inspection unless symptoms appear. If you notice slow drainage, gurgling sounds, or occasional backups, book an inspection to confirm the cause and prevent a full blockage forming.
What's the difference between a clogged drain and a collapsed pipe?
A blocked drain is an obstruction inside the pipe (roots, grease, debris) that stops water flow but the pipe structure is intact. A collapsed pipe has physically failed, crushed, broken, or severely misaligned, and cannot be cleared by jetting alone. camera inspection shows which situation you're dealing with. Blockages are cleared and flow is restored; collapsed sections require pipe replacement or relining to fix the structural failure.
Do you provide compliance certificates for drainage work in Telopea?
Compliance certificates are issued where regulations require them, such as backflow prevention device installations or work involving Sydney Water assets. Standard drain blockage clearing doesn't usually require certification, but structural repairs or new drainage connections might depending on council and water authority requirements. We confirm what's needed during assessment and include any required documentation and certification as part of the quoted scope.
