Blocked Drains and Pipes

Blocked drain specialists for South Adelaide and the Fleurieu Peninsula.

Smells coming from the drain? Toilets not flushing properly? Water backing up or slow drains around the house? Wilkinson Plumbing & Gas Fitters clears stubborn blockages and helps prevent repeat problems, including tree roots, grease build-up and recurring drain issues. Based in Aldinga, we service the Fleurieu Peninsula and Southern Adelaide.

No-obligation free quote. Emergency call-outs 24/7.

Blocked drain symptoms we can help with

  • Bad smells coming from the drain
  • Toilets not flushing properly or frequently blocking
  • Slow draining sinks, showers or floor wastes
  • Gurgling noises from drains or toilets
  • Water backing up in the shower, toilet or outside gully
  • Overflowing toilets, sewage backups or pooling water outside
  • Recurring blockages in the same drain line


Some recurring drainage issues may also be linked to septic or soakage system faults, especially in properties not connected to mains sewer. Learn more about septic tank repairs and installation.


If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s best to act early. Small blockages can quickly turn into overflows or water damage.


Plumber inspecting a drain pipe using a camera. Outdoor setting, wearing gloves, in a hole.
White van with

How We Can Help

Blocked drains cleared properly

Blocked drains often come back when the cause isn’t identified. We work to find the source of the blockage, clear it thoroughly, and recommend the right fix so it doesn’t keep happening.


  • Common blocked drain jobs
  • Blocked sinks, showers and floor wastes
  • Blocked toilets and overflowing drains
  • Stormwater and sewer line blockages
  • Tree root intrusions and recurring blockages
  • Grease build-up and slow-draining pipes
  • Sewage smells, gurgling drains and backups

Tools and technology

High pressure water jetting

High pressure water jetting is one of the most effective ways to clear and clean drains. It removes built-up debris, grease and sludge, and can cut through many common causes of blockages. It’s ideal for stubborn or recurring issues because it doesn’t just create a small opening — it helps flush the line thoroughly so it can flow freely again.

CCTV drain camera inspections

If a drain keeps blocking, there’s usually an underlying cause. CCTV drain camera inspections allow us to locate the exact position of the blockage and identify what’s causing it — including tree roots, build-up, damaged joints or collapsed sections. Once we know what’s happening inside the drain, we can recommend the right fix to reduce repeat problems and unnecessary call-outs.

Tree root removal

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of blocked drains across South Adelaide. Roots can enter small gaps in older pipe joints and quickly create repeat blockages. We can clear root intrusions to restore flow, then explain the best next step to help prevent the problem returning, including maintenance options and repair recommendations if the pipework is damaged.

Plumber kneeling, holding hose entering sewer. Van with equipment visible.

High Pressure Water Jetting

High pressure water jetting is one of the most effective ways to clear and clean blocked drains. It removes built-up debris, grease and sludge, and helps restore full flow — not just a small opening through the blockage.

What we can help with:

  • Stubborn or recurring drain blockages
  • Grease build-up and sludge in drain lines
  • Outdoor drains, gully traps and stormwater lines
  • Blockages caused by build-up over time
  • Clearing lines after CCTV inspection findings

Need a blocked drain cleared properly? Call now or request a free quote.

FAQ

  • Is water jetting safe for my pipes?

    Yes — we select the right pressure and nozzle for the type and condition of your drain line.

  • Will jetting stop the blockage coming back?

    Jetting removes the build-up that causes many repeat blockages. If there’s an underlying issue (roots or damage), we’ll recommend the next step.

  • Do you use jetting for emergency blocked drains?

    Yes — especially where drains are backing up or sewage is involved.

CCTV Drain Camera Inspections

If a drain keeps blocking, there’s usually an underlying cause. CCTV drain camera inspections allow us to locate the exact position of the blockage and identify what’s causing it — such as tree roots, build-up, damaged joints or collapsed sections.

What we can help with:

  • Repeat blockages and slow drains
  • Locating the cause and position of a blockage
  • Checking for tree roots, breaks or collapsed pipe sections
  • Confirming whether repairs are needed
  • Pre-purchase/peace-of-mind drain checks (where relevant)

Want to know what’s happening inside your drain? Call now or request a free quote.

Plumber inspecting pipe with a camera. Black cable extends from a reel. Near a building with plants.

FAQ

  • Do I need a camera inspection for every blockage?

    Not always. For recurring issues or unknown causes, CCTV is the fastest way to avoid guesswork.

  • Will you show me what you find?

    Yes — we’ll explain what we see and recommend the most practical fix.

  • Can CCTV help with tree roots in pipes?

    Yes — it helps confirm root intrusion and whether jetting/root cutting will resolve it or if repairs are needed.

Plumber removing tree roots from a pipe with a power tool, outside in a trench.

Tree Root Removal

Tree roots are one of the most common causes of blocked drains across South Adelaide and the Fleurieu. Roots can enter small gaps in older pipe joints and quickly create repeat blockages. We can clear root intrusions to restore flow, then explain the best next step to help prevent the problem from returning.

What we can help with:

  • Clearing tree root intrusions from drain lines
  • Root cutting and removal to restore flow
  • CCTV inspection to confirm root entry points
  • Advice on preventing repeat blockages
  • Repair recommendations if the pipework is damaged



Think tree roots are blocking your drain? Call now or request a free quote.

FAQ

  • How do I know if roots are in my pipes?

    Common signs include recurring blockages, gurgling toilets, slow drains and overflow after rain. CCTV can confirm it.

  • Will roots come back after removal?

    They can. We’ll explain prevention options and whether repairs are recommended to stop repeat intrusions.

  • Can you fix broken pipes caused by roots?

    If roots have damaged the line, we can recommend and assist with the appropriate repair pathway.

Our Blocked Drain Process

From diagnosis to clearing and prevention, we handle the whole job.

Step 1

Call us and describe the issue

Tell us what’s happening (slow drains, smells, toilet issues, overflow). We’ll confirm urgency, give you quick advice if needed, and book the nearest available plumber.

Step 2

Find the cause and clear the drain

We’ll locate the blockage and clear it properly using the right method for the job. If it’s stubborn or keeps coming back, we’ll use CCTV drain cameras to see what’s happening inside the pipe and high-pressure water jetting to thoroughly clean the line and restore flow.

Step 3

Fix the underlying issue and help prevent repeat blockages

Once the drain is flowing again, we’ll explain what caused the problem and the best way to stop it from returning. If we find tree roots or damaged pipework, we’ll talk you through the next step (root removal, maintenance options, or repairs if required).

Common causes of blocked drains

  • Tree roots pushing into pipes (very common locally)
  • Grease, fat and food build-up from kitchens
  • Hair and soap scum in bathroom drains
  • Wet wipes, paper towel and foreign objects
  • Sediment and debris in stormwater lines
  • Older pipework, cracked joints or collapsed sections
Cut-open pipe filled with thick, brown, fibrous material, likely roots, on a dark truck bed.

Service Areas

Blocked Drain Plumbing Near You

Based in Aldinga, we service the Fleurieu Peninsula and Southern Adelaide within a 30km radius, including Aldinga, Seaford, Noarlunga, Christies Beach, Port Noarlunga and Morphett Vale, plus surrounding areas from Sellicks Beach to McLaren Vale and inland towards Mount Compass.

Trusted Local Plumbers

See what locals are saying about Wilkinson Plumbing & Gas Fitters.

See what locals are saying about Wilkinson Plumbing & Gas.

Wilkinson Plumbing & Gas Fitters

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What causes blocked drains around here?

    Tree roots are one of the biggest causes locally, along with grease build-up, hair/soap scum, wet wipes and older pipework. Repeat blockages usually mean there’s an underlying issue that needs addressing.

  • Do you use CCTV cameras for blocked drains?

    Yes. CCTV drain inspections help us locate the blockage and identify what’s causing it, especially for recurring problems, suspected tree roots, or when the issue is deeper in the line.

  • Do you use high-pressure water jetting?

    Yes. High-pressure jetting is one of the most effective ways to clear and clean drains, especially when blockages are caused by built-up debris, grease or roots.

  • Do you do emergency blocked drains?

    Yes. We offer emergency call-outs 24/7 for urgent issues like overflowing toilets, sewage backups, or any blockage causing water damage.

  • How quickly can you attend?

    For emergency call-outs, we aim to reach you within 60 minutes, 24/7. Response times can vary depending on location, time of day, and current jobs, but urgent situations are prioritised.

  • How much does it cost to clear a blocked drain?

    It depends on the type of blockage, where it is, and what’s required to clear it properly. We’ll talk you through what we find and provide clear pricing before work begins where possible.

  • What should I do while waiting for a plumber?

    Avoid using the affected drains to prevent overflow. If there’s a flooding risk, turn off water at the main (if safe to do so) and keep people away from any sewage-contaminated areas. If you’re unsure, call us and we’ll guide you.

  • Can blocked drains be related to septic system issues?

    Yes, in some properties recurring drainage problems may be linked to septic or soakage system faults rather than standard pipe blockages.

Need a blocked drain cleared?

Call Wilkinson Plumbing & Gas Fitters for fast help and a no-obligation free quote.