How Much Does It Cost to Clear a Blocked Drain?

Ever had your day derailed by a stubborn, stinky drain blockage?

You're not alone. Blocked drains are one of those annoying household problems that seem to pop up at the worst time.

Whether it’s a kitchen sink refusing to drain or a toilet threatening to overflow, knowing the blocked drain cost ahead of time can save you from stress, surprise bills, and unnecessary mess.

At Sewer Surgeon, we help Aussies get back to normal with reliable and affordable drain cleaning services. 

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly what impacts the cost of blocked drain services, what you can expect to pay, and how to get the most value for your dollar.

Let’s break it down, plain and simple.

What’s the Average Blocked Drain Cost?

The million-dollar question, thankfully, it’s far from that!

For most residential jobs in Australia, the blocked drain cost typically ranges from $100 to $300. However, not all blockages are created equal.

Here’s a general pricing guide:

Factors That Affect the Cost of Blocked Drain Services

So, why the wide range? The price you pay can vary depending on several key factors:

Severity of the Blockage

• Light blockages might only need a plunger or snake.
  
  
• Severe blockages could involve jet-blasting or CCTV inspection.

Location of the Blockage

• Easily accessible drains like the kitchen sink are cheaper to fix.
  
  
• Underground or wall-embedded pipes take more time and gear.

Type of Plumbing System

• Older pipes are fragile and may require more care.
  
  
• Modern homes may have inspection points and access ports.

Tools and Techniques Required

• Plungers and drain rods are low-cost.
  
  
• Hydro-jetting or pipe relining increases the drain repair cost.

DIY Drain Clearing vs Professional Services

Trying to save cash? You might consider a DIY approach, but let’s weigh the pros and cons.

DIY Methods

• Boiling water, vinegar + bicarb soda: Good for light blocks.
  
  
• Plungers or hand augers: Mildly effective, limited reach.
  
  
• Chemical cleaners: Risk damaging your pipes.

Pros:

• Low-cost upfront
  
  
• Immediate action

Cons:

• Not always effective
  
  
• May worsen the issue
  
  
• Temporary fix

Hiring a Blocked Drain Plumber

Plumbers bring experience, specialised gear, and fast results. 

Here’s what they offer:

Hydro-Jet Drain Cleaning

Hydro-jetting is one of the most efficient solutions for clearing severe blockages, especially those caused by grease build-up, scale, or small tree roots. 

This method uses high-pressure water to thoroughly clean the inside of your pipes. In Australia, the average cost of hydro-jet drain cleaning ranges from $250 to $400, depending on the extent and location of the blockage.

CCTV Drain Camera Inspection

When the cause of a blockage isn't immediately obvious, a CCTV drain camera inspection can pinpoint the problem. 

A camera is fed through the drain to assess internal pipe conditions and locate issues like cracks, tree root invasions, or foreign objects. You can expect to pay $200 to $350 for a full inspection, which can save time and unnecessary excavation later on.

Pipe Relining and Repair

For more serious damage, such as cracked or collapsed pipes, pipe relining offers a long-term, trenchless solution. 

This involves inserting a resin-coated liner that hardens inside the damaged pipe. It’s a more expensive service, generally ranging from $500 to $1,500 or more per metre, depending on the level of damage and ease of access.

Toilet Unblocking

Blocked toilets are a common plumbing issue, and while some can be fixed with a plunger, others may need mechanical equipment or jet blasting. 

The typical cost for professional toilet unblocking services in Australia is between $150 and $300, with prices increasing for out-of-hours service or more complex blockages.

Sink, Shower, or Laundry Drain Clearing

Bathroom and laundry drains often get blocked by hair, soap scum, and detergent residue. 

These blockages are generally easier to handle and can be cleared using a hand auger or light hydro-jetting. Prices for these services typically fall between $100 and $200, making them one of the more budget-friendly drain cleaning options.

Sewer Line Blockages

Blockages in the main sewer line require more labour and specialised tools. 

Whether caused by tree roots, collapsed pipes, or major obstructions, these types of issues usually start at $400 and can exceed $800, especially if excavation or full pipe replacement is necessary.

Emergency Drain Services

Drain emergencies don’t always happen during business hours. If you need immediate assistance after hours, on weekends, or on public holidays, most plumbers charge an additional fee. 

Emergency call-outs generally add $100 to $250 to the standard rate, depending on the time and urgency of the situation.

You’re not just paying for a fix, you’re investing in peace of mind and preventing bigger damage.

Affordable Drain Cleaning Services by Sewer Surgeon

We pride ourselves on affordable drain cleaning and upfront quotes. No surprise fees, just top-notch workmanship.

Need help fast? Call 1300 734 677 or get in touch online.

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How to Get an Accurate Quote for Blocked Drain Services

Getting a reliable quote isn’t rocket science; just follow these steps:

• Be specific: Describe symptoms and location clearly.
  
  
• Ask for written quotes: Avoid surprises later.
  
  
• Compare providers: Don’t just settle for the first quote.

When Is Drain Repair Required?

Sometimes, it’s not just about unblocking, it’s about repairing.

You might need drain repairs if:

• The same drain keeps blocking repeatedly.
  
  
• Tree roots have invaded the pipes.
  
  
• You notice leaking or water pooling near drains.
  
  

Drain repair costs can range from $200 to over $1,000, depending on the extent of work. Pipe relining, for instance, avoids digging but comes with a higher price tag upfront, which is worth it for long-term peace of mind.

Early Warning Signs of a Blocked Drain

Knowing what to look for can prevent a small problem from turning into a big one:

• Slow drainage
  
  
• Gurgling noises
  
  
• Bad odours
  
  
• Toilet water levels rising
  
  
• Visible debris or overflow

Tips to Avoid High Drain Repair Costs

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Prevent future plumbing drama with these tips:

• Regular drain maintenance
  
  
• Don’t flush wipes or nappies
  
  
• Use strainers in kitchen sinks
  
  
• Avoid pouring fats or oils down the drain
  
  
• Book routine CCTV inspections
  
  

Plumbing Peace of Mind with Sewer Surgeon

Blocked drains might be a pain, but they don’t have to break the bank. Understanding the blocked drain cost helps you plan ahead and choose the right help. 

Whether it’s a simple clean or a complex drain repair, professional services often save you money and headaches down the line.

At Sewer Surgeon, we’re here to make your life easier with affordable drain cleaning, reliable diagnostics, and customer-first service. Our expert plumbers service all of Sydney and handle every type of drain issue quickly and hassle-free.

📞 Ready to clear those pipes? Call 1300 734 677 for expert help with blocked drain costs in Sydney. Check out Sewer Surgeon to learn more or book an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it expensive to unblock a drain?

It depends on the blockage type and location, but basic blocks often cost between $100 and $300. Major blockages or repairs can cost more.

How do you unblock a badly blocked drain?

Professionals typically use hydro-jetting or mechanical augers. DIY options include vinegar and baking soda, but they're limited to minor blocks.

Do you have to pay for blocked drains?

Yes, unless it's caused by public infrastructure, you’ll need to cover the costs. Homeowners are usually responsible for drain maintenance within their property.

Are chemical drain cleaners safe?

Not really. They can damage pipes over time and pose health risks. Professional cleaning is a safer, more effective choice.

What’s the cheapest way to clear a blocked drain?

Using a plunger or boiling water can work for minor blocks. But if it doesn’t help, call a plumber to avoid escalating the issue.