How Much Does it Cost to Unblock a Drain

Discovering a blocked drain can quickly turn into a nightmare, leading to potential flooding and even sewage backups. From fat deposits and foreign objects to invasive tree roots, there are several reasons why your drain may become blocked. No matter the cause, it’s essential to act quickly and get professional help. A blocked drain isn’t a DIY job—it requires specific equipment, skills, and expertise to handle properly.

If you’re worried about the cost, remember that it’s better to invest in a reputable Ipswich plumber than risk a botched job that could end up costing you even more. Below, we’ll explore what to expect when it comes to unblocking a drain and how to find the right professional for the job.

Who Should You Call to Unblock Your Drain?

In Australia, particularly in Queensland, there are strict regulations surrounding plumbing and drainage work. Under the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018, anyone performing drainage work must hold a current occupational plumbing and drainage license. This ensures that only qualified professionals handle complex tasks such as unblocking drains. You can verify if your plumber holds the necessary qualifications by checking with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

How to Find the Right Tradie for Clearing a Blocked Drain?

When searching for a local plumber, don’t just ask, “How much does it cost to unblock a drain?” and pick the cheapest quote. Instead, take the time to find a trustworthy professional who’s licensed and experienced. We recommend getting at least three quotes to ensure you’re receiving a fair price. Be cautious of prices that seem too low, as this could indicate subpar service or hidden fees.

Here are a few essential questions to ask when gathering quotes:

• Do you hold an occupational plumbing and drainage license?
• Do you have insurance?
• Can you provide references from previous clients?
• Will I receive a written quote?

It’s also important to trust your instincts. If a plumber is slow to respond, misses appointments, or generally feels unreliable, it’s best to look elsewhere. Choose a plumber who is transparent, professional, and responsive to your inquiries.

How Do Plumbers Fix a Blocked Drain?

Depending on the severity and cause of the blockage, plumbers use various techniques to clear drains. The first step is diagnosing the problem, which is often done using CCTV drain cameras. These allow the plumber to visually inspect the blockage and determine the best course of action. Common causes of blocked drains include:

• Tree roots
• Tampons or sanitary towels
• Grease build-up
• Hair build-up
• Foreign objects like toys or sanitary products
• Excessive toilet paper

Once the cause of the blockage is identified, the plumber can decide how to get things moving again. There are various tools that we use.

1. Electric Eel (Drain Snake)

An electric eel is a long, flexible steel rod equipped with cutting tools to break through tree roots and other tough blockages. However, this tool can have limitations, such as a restricted range and the potential to damage older pipes if not handled carefully.

2. Hydro Jets

Hydro jets use high-pressure water to blast through blockages, including tree roots and grease build-up. These are often considered the most effective and safest method for clearing blockages without damaging pipes.

How Much Does it Cost to Clear Blocked Drains?

The cost of unblocking a drain can vary depending on factors such as location, the complexity of the blockage, and whether the work is done during or outside regular hours. Here’s a general breakdown of what you might expect to pay in Australia in 2024:

• Call-out fee: $55 to $110
• Hourly rate: $100 to $150
• After-hours premium: Add 20-30% for emergency services outside regular hours

These prices are only a guide and things like location, market forces, supply of materials and labour will all influence the cost of the job. A bit of research will help you when you’re getting your three quotes, and any reputable plumber will be happy to answer your questions.

For specific services, here’s what you can expect according to HiPages:

• Unblocking a toilet or kitchen drain: $80 to $200
• Clearing a short section of blocked drain: $300 to $500
• Replacing a section of your drainage system: $1,000 to $3,000
• Replacing an entire drainage system: $5,000 to $20,000.

How to Keep Costs Down

One way to reduce costs is by keeping up with regular drain maintenance. Simple practices, such as avoiding flushing non-degradable items and regularly cleaning drains, can help prevent future blockages.

Additionally, ask your blocked drain plumber if they offer discounts for non-urgent services, or if there are off-peak times when their rates might be lower.

Final Thoughts

Blocked drains are not only an inconvenience but can lead to serious damage if left untreated. It’s essential to hire a licensed, experienced Ipswich plumber to handle the job correctly. While the cost of unblocking a drain can vary, the peace of mind that comes with a professional fix is well worth the investment.

If you need expert plumbing services, Parker Plumbing has been servicing Ipswich and Brisbane for over 13 years. Our team of licensed professionals is ready to help with any drainage issues you may have. Call us today at 07 3177 2019 for a free quote.

Dan Parker

Dan Parker is the Director of Parker Plumbing and has over 16+ years of experience in the plumbing industry. His commitment to providing exceptional customer service means that he has seen it all – anything to do with residential or commercial plumbing, he knows what to do. Passionate about helping people in his community, Dan strives to offer honest and reliable plumbing services in the Brisbane and Ipswich areas.