It is one of the first questions people ask, and a fair one. The honest answer is that it depends on the job, but it is possible to understand what drives the cost and what to ask before any work begins.
We do not publish fixed prices on this page because two blockages that look the same from the outside can involve very different amounts of work. Contact us with details and we will explain the likely cost for your situation before starting.
What affects the cost of drain unblocking
Where the blockage is
A blockage in a sink trap is quicker to deal with than one deep in an underground drain between two inspection chambers. If the blockage is in a section with no easy access point, it will take longer.
How easy the drain is to reach
Inspection chambers that are visible and easy to open make the job straightforward. Chambers buried under paving, decking or gravel, or drains that run under extensions, add time.
What is causing it
A few wipes can be cleared quickly. Hardened fat along several metres of pipe, heavy silt or roots take more work and may need high-pressure jetting rather than rods.
Equipment needed
Some blockages can be cleared with hand rods. Others need a jetting unit, and if the cause is unclear, a CCTV camera may be needed to see what is going on.
Severity and time
A partial blockage in a well-maintained drain is a different job from a fully backed-up system with sewage in several chambers.
Timing and urgency
Urgent call-outs, especially outside normal working hours, can cost more than a planned visit. It is worth asking about this when you call.
Drain jetting and CCTV surveys
Drain jetting is generally used when a drain has heavy build-up or keeps blocking. CCTV drain surveys are a separate service used to diagnose problems. Both are priced according to the size of the job, the length of drain and access.
Questions to ask before work starts
- How will the cost be worked out: fixed, hourly or per job?
- What is included, and what would count as extra?
- Will you tell me before doing anything that would change the cost?
- Is there a separate charge for a survey or report?
A reputable company should be happy to answer all of these.
How to avoid paying twice
The most expensive blockage is the one that keeps coming back. If a drain has blocked more than once, ask what caused it. Clearing the symptom without dealing with the cause (such as roots or a displaced joint) often means another bill a few weeks later. Our guide to recurring drain blockages explains the common causes.
Is it covered by insurance?
Some home insurance policies include accidental damage to underground pipes or drainage cover. Check your policy, and speak to your insurer before work begins if you intend to claim.
Who pays if the drain is shared?
In England, you are usually responsible for the drain serving only your property within its boundary. Shared drains and public sewers are generally the water company’s responsibility. It is worth establishing where the blockage is before you pay for it to be cleared.
If you are in the Southampton area, see drain unblocking in Southampton or call us to discuss your problem.