Blocked Drain FAQ's in Westleigh
What typically causes drains to block in Westleigh properties?
Drainage blockages usually result from grease and fat buildup in kitchen lines, hair and soap residue in bathroom drains, or tree roots entering cracks in aging underground pipes. In older suburbs, clay and terracotta pipes are particularly vulnerable to root intrusion. Foreign objects like sanitary products or wipes flushed down toilets also cause blockages. These materials accumulate over time until water flow is restricted or stopped completely.
How do you locate a blockage without digging up my property?
We insert a high-definition CCTV drain camera into the line, which transmits live video showing the exact location, type, and severity of the blockage. This visual inspection identifies whether it's grease buildup, root intrusion, collapsed pipe, or foreign objects, and confirms the depth and access point. The camera footage also reveals any structural damage that might need repair after the blockage is cleared, so you know the full scope before work proceeds.
What's involved in clearing a clogged drain?
Once the blockage is located with camera diagnostics, we clear it using high-pressure water jetting for grease, sludge, and light roots, or mechanical augers for harder obstructions. The clearing method depends on what's found during inspection. After the obstruction is removed, we verify flow is restored by running water through the line and checking drainage speed. If structural damage is identified, repair options are explained and quoted separately before proceeding.
How long does a typical drain unblocking take?
Most standard blockages in accessible lines, kitchen sinks, bathroom drains, toilet pans, are cleared within one to two hours once the technician arrives and completes the camera inspection. The time varies depending on blockage severity, how far down the line it sits, and whether access is straightforward or requires lifting grates or accessing inspection points. If the blockage involves structural damage requiring excavation or relining, the timeline extends and is confirmed once scope is assessed.
Can tree roots cause permanent damage to my drains?
Tree roots enter pipes through small cracks or loose joints, then expand as they seek moisture and nutrients. Over time, this can fracture pipe walls or cause sections to collapse entirely. If caught early, roots can be cleared with high-pressure jetting and the pipe monitored. If structural damage has occurred, options include section replacement or trenchless drain relining, which creates a new seamless lining inside the damaged pipe without excavation. The camera inspection shows the extent of damage so repair scope is clear.
What should I do immediately if a drain is backing up?
Stop using all fixtures that drain into that line to prevent overflow and potential sewage backup. If water is actively rising in a toilet or floor waste, avoid flushing or running more water. For severe backups where sewage is overflowing, isolate the area and call for an emergency assessment. We'll dispatch a correctly licensed plumbing technician to contain the situation, assess the cause, and provide the fixed-price quote for clearing once scope is finalised.
Is high-pressure water jetting safe for older pipes?
High-pressure water jetting is safe for structurally sound pipes and is routinely used on clay, PVC, cast iron, and concrete lines. The pressure and nozzle type are adjusted based on pipe material and condition observed during the camera inspection. If the camera shows the pipe is already cracked, collapsed, or severely corroded, we discuss whether jetting is appropriate or if repair should be completed first to avoid worsening the damage. The assessment ensures the clearing method matches the pipe's condition.
How often should drains be professionally inspected?
For most residential properties, a CCTV drain inspection every few years is sufficient to catch early warning signs like minor root intrusion, developing cracks, or sediment buildup before they become full blockages. Properties with mature trees near sewer lines, older pipe materials, or a history of recurring blockages benefit from more frequent inspections. Regular camera checks identify issues while they're still manageable, reducing the chance of emergency blockages and costly repairs.
What does your fixed price quote include?
The fixed-price quote covers diagnosing the blockage with CCTV camera inspection, clearing the obstruction using the appropriate method, verifying flow is restored, and cleaning up the work area. The price is by the job, not by the hour, so you know the cost before work starts. If camera inspection reveals additional issues like structural damage requiring separate repair, those are quoted separately and only proceed with your approval. There are no hidden costs added at the end.
Do you provide emergency drain clearing in Westleigh?
We operate a 24/7 emergency service for urgent drainage issues like sewage backups, complete blockages, or flooding. When you call with an emergency, we dispatch the nearest available licensed plumber from our West Sydney hub and provide an ETA based on current crew location and traffic. Urgent jobs are prioritised for immediate dispatch. For less urgent blockages that aren't causing overflow, same-day or next-day service is typically available by calling during business hours.
