Blocked Drains Melbourne

Yes — when availability allows, we aim for same-day service. Blocked drains that are overflowing or causing sewage backup are treated as urgent and prioritised accordingly.

It depends on the cause. If the blockage was caused by a one-off event (e.g. a foreign object), it’s unlikely to recur. If tree roots or broken pipes are the underlying issue, the blockage can return unless the pipe is repaired or relined. We’ll tell you what we find and recommend the right long-term fix.

The cost varies depending on the location and severity of the blockage, the equipment needed, and whether pipe repairs are required. Simple blockages cleared with a drain machine are at the lower end; complex root intrusions requiring jetting or CCTV inspection cost more. We provide upfront pricing before starting work.

We use electric drain machines (drain snakes) for most blockages, high-pressure water jetters for stubborn obstructions like tree roots and grease, and CCTV drain cameras to inspect the pipe condition and pinpoint the exact location and cause of the blockage.

Minor blockages in sink or shower traps can sometimes be cleared with a plunger or by removing and cleaning the trap. However, blockages further down the line — especially in the sewer — require professional equipment. Chemical drain cleaners can damage pipes and are generally not recommended by plumbers.

If only one fixture is affected, the blockage is usually in your internal plumbing. If multiple fixtures are backing up or the gully trap is overflowing, the blockage is likely in your sewer line between the house and the property boundary. Beyond the boundary, the sewer main is the water authority’s responsibility — contact your retailer (e.g. Yarra Valley Water, South East Water).

A small waterproof camera is fed into the drain pipe to provide a live video feed of the pipe’s interior. This allows us to see exactly what’s causing the blockage — roots, cracks, displaced joints, or buildup — and assess the pipe’s overall condition. It’s the most accurate way to diagnose drain problems without excavation.

Pipe relining is a trenchless repair method where a resin-coated liner is inserted into the damaged pipe and cured in place, creating a new pipe inside the old one. It’s used when the pipe has cracks, root damage, or displaced joints but hasn’t fully collapsed. It avoids the cost and disruption of excavating and replacing the pipe.

Yes — sewage backups and overflows expose occupants to harmful bacteria and pathogens. Stagnant water can also attract mosquitoes and create mould growth. If sewage is backing up inside your home, avoid contact, ventilate the area, and call a plumber promptly.

Yes — tree roots don’t respect property boundaries and can travel many metres from the trunk. If a neighbour’s tree is causing blockages in your drains, you’re still responsible for the repairs on your side of the boundary. In some cases, the neighbour may share responsibility for root removal — local council can advise on dispute resolution.