Clogs can start, grow, and disrupt function in and out of the toilet, but they can also start, grow, and disrupt function anywhere in the system. We know that our drainage systems are connected to the public stormwater and sewage system but where does the property owners responsibility stop and start when it comes to blocked drains?

What are the common causes of blocked drains?

A blockage can build and lodge itself anywhere, but analysis will help narrow down the possibilities. You’ll be able to see what’s happening and what exactly the problem affects. If some component of the water or sewer main is clogged, the issue typically impacts the whole household or structure. If something is stuck in one of the sublines, whatever is happening will more than likely be isolated to one area.

These may be paper towels, tissues, hygiene items, cotton swabs, hair, band aids, pharmaceuticals, hazardous materials, oils, grease, and kitty litter should all be thrown away in the trash. Anything that isn’t toilet paper should never be flushed down the toilet. The less we treat the toilet like a trash can, the more likely we are to avoid any form of clog. Same case also applies to our kitchen and bathroom sink.

Where does the responsibility lie?

Well that comes down to where the legal point of discharge is which is the point at which the property’s drainage system ends and the public drainage system starts. This is a junction in the ground owned and maintained by Hunter Water that redirects the drainage into the stormwater system.

If the junction is broken or has collapsed then Hunter Water will need to be called and we can do this for you if we’re onsite. However, more often than not we find that the blockage is caused somewhere on the private property.

Property owners are responsible for maintaining stormwater pipes, gutters, downpipes, gully pits and any other components of drainage systems in good condition, and in compliance with Council requirements. This includes maintenance of the stormwater system

What should I do if I have a blocked drainage system?

Your first call should be to a qualified, licensed plumber who specialises in blocked drains like Newcastle Plumbing Kings. We have the right tools and equipment to identify where and what is causing your blocked drains. We use CCTV cameras to thoroughly check the cause of the blockage in order to provide the best and right solution. If the blockage is on your property, we can clear the blockage and fix any damage. Avoid DIY-ing situations like this as they are just temporary solutions and could make the situation much worse.

We will firstly try to clear the blockage and then inspect with our CCTV camera to diagnose the cause of the blockage.

Always ask an expert or professional in this field to quickly solve the problem and avoid future problems.

Why hire a professional?

Of course, we all want to get things done quickly in order to save time and money. Hiring a professional, on the other hand, allows you to save even more money in the long run. Professional plumbers anticipate problems before they arise and devise strategies to avert them.

We also offer a free warranty check on blocked drain jobs for up to 365 days after blocked drain complete.

Newcastle Plumbing Kings can handle all of your blocked drain plumbing requirements. We perform a CCTV inspection of your drains to determine the exact location of the blockage and discuss your plumbing choices. Make us your first call next time your drains are blocked.