Blocked Drain FAQ's in Wallacia
What typically causes blocked drains in Wallacia properties?
Blocked drains in Wallacia usually result from grease and food waste buildup in kitchen lines, tree root intrusion in older clay or terracotta sewer pipes, or foreign objects like wet wipes and sanitary products flushed down toilets. Hair and soap scum accumulation in bathroom drains is also common. The specific cause depends on the pipe age, material, and what enters the system.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We start with a CCTV CCTV check to identify the blockage type and pipe condition. High-pressure water jetting is used for debris and root masses, as it clears the obstruction without damaging the pipe walls. For solid foreign objects, mechanical cutting tools are used. If the camera shows cracks or structural damage, we explain repair options before proceeding with any invasive work.
What should I do if my toilet is overflowing right now?
Stop using all plumbing fixtures immediately to prevent further backup. If the toilet is actively overflowing, turn off the water supply at the isolation valve behind the toilet or at the main shutoff if accessible. Call us for immediate dispatch, we treat overflowing toilets as urgent and send the nearest available licensed, insured plumber. Do not attempt to clear it with harsh chemicals, as these can worsen the blockage or damage pipes.
Can tree roots really block my sewer line?
Yes, tree roots are a common cause of sewer blockages in older properties with clay or terracotta pipes. Roots seek moisture and enter pipes through hairline cracks or loose joints. Once inside, they expand and trap debris, eventually forming a dense blockage. A camera inspection confirms whether roots are present and how extensive the intrusion is. Clearing requires high-pressure jetting or mechanical cutting, and in severe cases, pipe replacement or relining may be recommended.
How long does it take to clear a typical blocked drain?
Most residential blockages are cleared within one to two hours once the plumber arrives, including inspection and testing. The timeframe depends on blockage severity, access to cleanout points, and whether the pipe is damaged. If structural repairs or excavation are needed, we explain the extended timeframe and quote separately. Urgent blockages causing active overflow are prioritised for fastest possible resolution.
Do you provide a fixed-price quote before starting work?
Yes, we provide a fixed-price quote after inspecting the blockage and confirming the clearing method required. The quote covers the work, standard materials, and verification testing, with no hourly charges or hidden fees. If additional work is identified during the job, such as pipe damage requiring repair, we explain those costs and confirm your approval before proceeding. You decide once the scope and price are clear.
What's included in your Lifetime Labour Warranty?
Our Lifetime Labour Warranty covers the workmanship on all drainage clearing and fixing. If the work we perform fails due to a workmanship defect, we return and rectify it at no additional cost. The warranty does not cover new blockages caused by misuse, tree root regrowth, or structural issues unrelated to the original repair. Manufacturer warranties apply separately to any installed parts or hardware.
Can you inspect the whole drain system with the camera?
We can inspect accessible sections of the drainage system using a high-definition CCTV camera. The camera is inserted through a cleanout point or boundary trap and pushed through the line to identify blockages, cracks, root intrusion, or pipe condition issues. Inspection range depends on access points, bends, and blockage location. We provide a recording or images of the findings and explain what they mean for repair or clearing options.
How do I prevent blocked drains in the future?
Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down kitchen sinks, let them cool and dispose of them in the bin. Use sink strainers to catch food scraps and hair. Only flush toilet paper and human waste; wet wipes and sanitary products should go in the bin even if labelled flushable. Regular professional inspections can identify early signs of root intrusion or buildup before a full blockage occurs. We can advise on maintenance intervals based on your property's pipe age and condition.
Do you service Wallacia for emergency drainage problems?
Yes, we provide 24/7 emergency drainage support for Wallacia residents. Urgent jobs are dispatched immediately from our West Sydney hub, with the nearest available licensed plumbing technician allocated. Emergency call-out fees and after-hours rates apply outside standard business hours, and we explain those costs when you book. For active sewage backup or flooding, call us now for immediate dispatch and an estimated arrival time.
