Common causes include grease, hair, soap residue, food waste, wipes, foreign objects, tree roots, damaged pipes and debris that has built up over time.

Common signs include slow drainage, bad smells, gurgling sounds, rising toilet water, wastewater backing up and overflow from outdoor drains.

A recurring blockage may indicate tree-root intrusion, damaged pipework or an obstruction that has not been removed completely. A CCTV drain inspection can help identify the underlying cause.

It can be. Arrange urgent help when wastewater is backing up, several fixtures are affected, sewage is overflowing or the blockage is causing flooding or an immediate hygiene risk.

Yes. Tree roots can enter through cracks or loose pipe joints and continue growing inside the drain, trapping waste and causing repeated blockages.

Yes. A plumber can inspect and clear blocked toilets and determine whether the problem is limited to the toilet or located further along the drainage system.

A CCTV drain inspection uses a small camera to view the inside of the pipe. It can help locate the obstruction and identify damage, root intrusion or other conditions that may be causing the problem.

High-pressure water jetting uses a specialist hose and nozzle to send powerful streams of water through the drain. This helps break apart and flush away grease, debris and stubborn obstructions.

Professional water jetting should be selected and operated by a trained plumber after considering the type and condition of the pipe. If the drain appears damaged, the plumber may recommend a CCTV inspection before proceeding.

A slow-draining sink is often caused by a partial blockage formed by grease, food waste, hair, soap or other debris inside the pipe.

Service Today recommends flushing only toilet paper. Wipes labelled as flushable may not break down quickly enough and can contribute to blocked drains.

Not usually. Many blockages can be located and cleared without excavation. Digging may only be considered when the pipe is severely damaged or cannot be repaired using a suitable no-dig method.

Professional drain clearing generally relies on mechanical equipment, CCTV inspection and water jetting rather than household chemical cleaners. The appropriate method depends on the blockage and pipe condition.

The time required depends on the location, severity and cause of the blockage. A straightforward obstruction may be cleared during the initial visit, while tree roots or damaged pipes may require further investigation or repair.

Stop using affected sinks, toilets, showers and appliances where possible. Keep people and pets away from wastewater, avoid adding chemical drain cleaners and move belongings away from any overflow area.