Blocked Drain FAQ's in Woodbine
What actually causes most blocked drains in Woodbine homes?
Most Woodbine blocked drain issues trace back to hair and soap scum in bathrooms, cooking fats and food scraps in kitchens, or tree roots infiltrating external sewer lines through cracked joints. In practice, what starts as gradual buildup inside the pipe eventually narrows the passage enough that water backs up. For external lines, roots seeking moisture enter through microscopic cracks, then expand and trap debris until the pipe is completely obstructed.
How do you clear a blocked drain without damaging the pipes?
We use high-pressure water jetting to scour grease, roots, and debris from pipe walls without damaging the pipe itself, or a mechanical drain snake for solid obstructions like foreign objects. A CCTV CCTV check is performed first to confirm what's causing the blockage and where it sits, so we select the appropriate clearing method. If the camera shows structural damage, we explain the options and quote any additional work before proceeding.
Can I get a fixed price before you start clearing the drain?
Yes. After the camera inspection confirms the blockage location and cause, we provide a fixed price quote that covers the clearing work, verification testing, and any follow-up camera check if needed. The price is by the job, not by the hour, and there are no hidden fees. If the inspection reveals pipe damage requiring relining or replacement, that's quoted separately and you decide whether to proceed.
How long does it take to clear a typical drain blockage?
A straightforward blockage in an accessible kitchen or bathroom drain is usually cleared within the first visit, typically taking one to two hours including assessment and verification. External sewer blockages can take longer depending on the depth, access, and severity of the obstruction. We provide an estimated timeframe once the inspection confirms what's involved, and the fixed quote includes the time needed to complete the work properly.
What should I do immediately if a drain is backing up?
Stop using the affected fixture to prevent overflow, and don't flush the toilet if it's draining slowly or backing up. If water is already overflowing, placing towels around the base can limit floor damage while you arrange an assessment. Our emergency dispatch service is available 24/7 for severe backups, and we provide an ETA when you book so you know when the plumber is arriving.
Is there a call-out fee for blocked drain work in Woodbine?
Call-out fees vary by service area and booking type. When you call to book, confirm the call-out fee status for Woodbine specifically. Standard jobs during business hours often have no separate call-out fee, with diagnostic assessment included in the flat-rate quote. Emergency after-hours callouts typically include an emergency rate that covers the first hour and diagnostic work, with additional repairs quoted separately once scope is confirmed onsite.
Can tree roots cause serious damage to sewer pipes?
Yes. Tree roots can enter sewer pipes through tiny cracks or weak joints, then expand into dense root masses that block the pipe and sometimes crack it further as they grow. If left unaddressed, severe root intrusion can lead to structural pipe failure requiring excavation or trenchless relining to restore function. The CCTV camera inspection shows the extent of root damage, and we explain whether clearing the roots is sufficient or whether pipe repair is needed.
How do I know if a blocked drain needs urgent attention?
A drain that's completely blocked and causing water to back up into sinks, showers, or toilets requires prompt attention to prevent overflow damage. Foul odours, gurgling sounds, and multiple fixtures draining slowly at once can indicate a main sewer line blockage that will worsen if ignored. Our 24/7 emergency service covers severe blockages, and we assess the urgency when you call to determine whether same-day or immediate dispatch is appropriate.
What's involved in a CCTV drain CCTV check?
We insert a high-definition camera mounted on a flexible cable into the drain, then push it through the pipe while recording live footage. The camera shows the exact location of the blockage, what's causing it, the pipe material and condition, and whether there's structural damage. This allows us to select the most effective clearing method and identify any underlying issues before starting the work. The camera inspection is included in the diagnostic assessment.
Do you guarantee the drain will stay clear after you fix it?
We back all clearing work with our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship, which means if the same blockage recurs due to our work, we'll return and address it. However, drains can block again over time if new debris accumulates or tree roots regrow, which is why we explain what caused the original blockage and how to reduce the risk of recurrence. If the camera inspection reveals underlying pipe damage, we recommend addressing that to prevent future blockages.
