Blocked Drain FAQ's in Warwick Farm
What's causing poor drainage in my Warwick Farm home?
Slow drainage usually means a partial blockage somewhere in the line, caused by debris buildup, grease accumulation, or early-stage root intrusion. In older Warwick Farm properties with clay pipes, tree roots are the most common cause we see. In newer homes, kitchen grease or bathroom hair and soap scum are typical. A CCTV check locates the restriction and shows us what's causing it, so we can recommend the right clearing method and provide a fixed quote before starting.
Can tree roots really block my drains?
Yes, tree roots are one of the most frequent causes of blocked drains in established suburbs. Roots seek moisture and enter pipes through microscopic cracks or loose joints. Once inside, they expand and trap passing debris, eventually causing a complete blockage or structural pipe damage. Mature trees with aggressive root systems (like ficus or large eucalypts) are the usual culprits. CCTV footage shows us the extent of root intrusion, and we clear it with high-pressure water jetting or recommend relining if the pipe structure is compromised.
How do you clear a blocked drain without digging up my yard?
We use high-pressure water jetting to clear most residential blockages without excavation. A specialised nozzle fires water at high pressure through the drain, pulverising roots, scouring grease from pipe walls, and flushing debris out of the line. For blockages caused by foreign objects or severe structural damage, we may need to use mechanical clearing or access the pipe at a junction point. camera inspection beforehand shows us what we're dealing with, so we can confirm the approach and quote accurately before starting the work.
What should I do if my toilet or floor drain is overflowing?
Stop using all water fixtures immediately to prevent further overflow and contamination. If it's sewage backflowing inside the home, it's an emergency. Call us and we'll dispatch a plumber from our nearest hub with immediate priority. While waiting, avoid walking through contaminated water and ventilate the area if it's safe to do so. Our goal is to stop the overflow, locate and clear the blockage, and make the area safe. Don't attempt to clear it yourself with chemicals or excessive plunging, as that can worsen the problem or damage pipes.
How much does it cost to clear a blocked drain in Warwick Farm?
Pricing depends on the blockage location, access, severity, and what's causing it. A straightforward kitchen or bathroom blockage in an accessible line is usually less involved than a main sewer line blockage requiring CCTV check and high-pressure jetting. We provide a fixed-price quote once the plumber assesses the situation onsite and confirms scope. The quote covers diagnosis, clearing, testing, and site cleanup. Confirm the call-out fee status for Warwick Farm when you book, as it varies by service area.
Do you offer same day service for blocked drains?
Yes, same-day service is available for most standard plumbing enquiries including blocked drains, subject to current booking levels and technician availability. For emergencies involving overflow, sewage backup, or situations affecting safety, we offer immediate dispatch from our nearest hub with ETA updates where possible. When you call, we'll confirm whether same-day attendance is available for your situation and provide an expected arrival window. Non-urgent drainage work can be scheduled at your convenience.
Will clearing the blockage fix the problem permanently?
Clearing restores flow and removes the immediate obstruction, but whether it's a permanent fix depends on what caused the blockage and the condition of your pipes. If it's a one-off foreign object or grease buildup, clearing typically resolves it long-term. If tree roots have entered through cracks or the pipe is deteriorating, the blockage may recur unless the underlying damage is addressed. CCTV footage shows us pipe condition, and we explain whether relining or pipe replacement is needed to prevent future issues. All clearing work is backed by our workmanship warranty.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners before calling a plumber?
Chemical drain cleaners contain harsh agents that can corrode pipes over time, especially older metal pipes. They may clear minor blockages temporarily but often don't resolve the underlying cause, and they can make conditions hazardous for the plumber if professional clearing is still needed. If you've already used chemicals, let us know when booking so we can take appropriate safety precautions. For persistent or severe blockages, professional clearing with high-pressure jetting is safer and more effective long-term.
How often should drains be professionally inspected?
For most residential properties, an annual inspection and maintenance clean is sufficient to catch early signs of buildup or root intrusion before they cause blockages. Properties with mature trees near sewer lines, older clay pipes, or a history of recurring blockages may benefit from more frequent inspections. CCTV inspections provide a clear view of pipe condition and any developing issues, allowing preventative maintenance before a complete blockage occurs. Regular maintenance is typically more cost-effective than emergency callouts for severe blockages.
What's included in your Lifetime Labour Warranty?
Our Lifetime Labour Warranty covers the workmanship on all plumbing repairs and installations we complete. If a fault develops in the work we've performed (as opposed to a new, unrelated issue or normal wear on components), we'll return and fix it at no additional labour charge. The warranty applies to our work specifically; manufacturer warranties cover hardware and appliances separately. This gives you confidence that we stand by the quality of our installations and repairs long-term, backed by our commitment to durable solutions and professional standards.
