Why Drainage Work Can Be Difficult to Quote in Advance

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Quoting for drainage work isn't always straightforward. Until we’re on site and can see the problem clearly, it's impossible to know:

• How long the job will take

• What equipment will be needed

• How complex the issue really is

No two blockages are the same—and it’s well known in the industry that some drains simply perform better than others.

 

Real Example (Winter 2023)

We were called to a property with what appeared to be a simple blocked kitchen sink. After investigation, we discovered multiple blocked manholes across the property.

To make things trickier, the kitchen gulley was completely covered by decking, leaving us without direct access. What seemed like a quick fix turned into a much more complex job.

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How You Can Help (and Save Money)

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To keep time on-site—and your costs—down, we recommend:

• Locating and uncovering manholes before we arrive

• Checking garages, sheds, or decking for hidden access points

• Letting us know in advance about known drainage layouts or past issues

Uncovering manholes ahead of time can significantly reduce labour time and cost.

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Transparent Pricing

All of our prices include taxes and call-out fees. There are no hidden extras.

To help you estimate costs, we've listed typical pricing ranges in our pricing section above.

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Who s Responsible for My Blocked Drain?

If you're a homeowner or landlord, you're responsible for all drains located within your property boundary that are used solely by your property.

If the blockage is outside your boundary—for example, in a shared drain or main sewer line—the issue is usually the responsibility of your local water authority.

Important Note

Responsibility can vary depending on your location. If you're on a private road or track, the drains may still be classed as private and remain your responsibility.

If you're unsure, we can help identify the problem’s location and advise whether it falls under your responsibility or the water company’s.

 

Our Process – How Do You Unblock My Drain?

 

Drain Unblocking Methods

Depending on the location and severity of a blockage, different tools and techniques are used.

 

Rodding: Simple, But Direction Matters

Rodding is often the most cost-effective solution when clearing blockages:

• Between two manholes

• From a manhole to the public sewer (downstream only)

Rodding cannot be used upstream, for example:

• From a manhole to a gulley

• From a manhole to a soil pipe or ACO drain

Rods should only be used in the main drain line. Incorrect use can cause rods to break, get lost, or worsen the blockage.

 

High-Pressure Water Jetting

In 2023, over 80% of blockages were cleared quickly using our high-pressure water jetting system.

Effective for:

• Grease and fat build-up

• Stubborn blockages

• Long drainage runs

This method is fast, thorough, and safe for most drainage systems.

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Preventative Maintenance & CCTV Surveys

We recommend regular drain cleaning and servicing, especially if you've had issues in the past.

We use CCTV and drain tracing equipment to:

• Pinpoint blockages or defects

• Assess pipe condition

• Improve long-term drainage performance

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How Long Does It Take to Unblock My Drain?

 

What Can Affect Time on Site?

Time on-site may increase if:

• Manholes are hidden, buried, or need tracing

• Covers are seized, cemented, or set in resin/tarmac

• Decking or paving needs lifting

In our experience, 7 out of 10 manhole covers can be opened within minutes, but older covers may take longer.

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What Happens If I Leave a Blocked Drain?

Leaving a blocked drain unresolved can lead to serious and costly damage.

When untreated:

• Pressure builds up inside the pipe

• Pipes may crack, dislodge, or burst

• Wastewater may back up into your home or garden

• Minor issues can turn into major repairs

Blockages never resolve themselves. The longer you wait, the worse—and more expensive—the problem becomes.

 

Do You Offer a Guarantee?

 

Our 4-Week Drain Clearance Guarantee

We offer a 4-week standard guarantee on all drain clearances.

This applies provided the blockage is not caused by:

• Grease or fat

• Non-flushable items (wipes, sanitary products, etc.)

If the same issue reoccurs within the guarantee period and meets the conditions, we’ll return free of charge.

 

Scenarios

 

What If My Drain Rods Are Stuck?

In 2023, 10% of blockages were caused by rods that had snapped, jammed, or been lost in pipes.

We carry specialist tools to retrieve lost rods. In worst-case scenarios, excavation may be required—especially under:

• Tarmac or block paving

• Garages or extensions

• Hard-to-access areas

If rods get stuck, stop and call us early to avoid further damage.

What If My Drain Blocks Regularly?

CCTV surveys in 2023 revealed some recurring blockages were caused by incorrectly installed pipes laid at the wrong angle (fall).

Liquids drain away, but solids build up over time.

Instead of costly pipe replacement, many customers chose a regular maintenance programme at a discounted rate.

What If I See Rats in My Drain?

This may indicate an infestation from the public sewer.
We can install a rat gate to prevent entry into your property.

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Scheduling & Logistics

 

How Quickly Can You Attend?

We offer same-day call-outs whenever possible.

If you provide a contact number, we will:

• Notify you when we are on route

• Provide at least 1 hour’s notice where possible

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Can I Book a Set Time Slot?

Guaranteed time slots are usually booked for the following day or weekends.

All repair work is scheduled at a mutually agreed time.

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Do I Need to Be Home?

If the blockage is external, we usually don’t need internal access.

For internal blockages (baths, showers, sinks, macerators), access will be required.

For rented or unoccupied properties, we can:

• Collect and return keys

• Use a key safe

• Send invoices and quotes via email

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Repairs & Installations

 

Do You Carry Out Repairs?

Yes. We provide free, no-obligation quotations for any defects found.

 

Can You Install a Downstairs W/C Without a Nearby Drain?

Yes. We can assess and connect to a nearby manhole or install a new one depending on invert levels.

 

Can You Relocate a Manhole?

Yes. We handle everything from small domestic manholes to large concrete sectional ones, including live sewer diversions (with water authority approval).

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Burst or Defective Pipes & Insurance

We provide:

• Full CCTV survey

• MINA industry-recognised report

• Detailed quotation for insurance submission

As of January 2024, we use upgraded Scanprobe, Maxiprobe, and MINA Survey systems.

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Home Buyer Drain Surveys

We provide full CCTV surveys with video footage and professional reports.

In 2023:

• 40% of surveys revealed serious defects

• 15% were carried out after purchase

A pre-purchase survey can provide negotiation leverage and future insurance clarity.

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Lead Water Service Replacement

We are WaterSafe and WIAPS approved installers.

We can replace lead water services with modern MDPE piping, fully compliant and certified.

In some cases, the water authority may offer a free connection if the street main has been upgraded.

 

Invoicing & Payments

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Why Is My CCTV Invoice Higher Than Expected?

If pipes are excessively dirty, high-pressure jetting may be required before inspection.
Pre-cleaning ensures clear footage and accurate defect identification.

This will be:

• Fully documented in the report

• Visible on the video

• Charged at a discounted rate if done during a scheduled survey

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Why Is My Jetting Invoice Higher Than Expected?

If something unusual is identified during blockage removal, a CCTV “Look & See” inspection may be carried out to check for defects.

If required during a call-out, this service is offered at a discounted rate alongside jetting.