A blocked drain can look like a simple job. Push something down the pipe, the water goes away, done. But a drain that's cleared without finding out why it blocked usually blocks again. And in WA, work on your sewer and drainage pipes is licensed plumbing work. Here's why it pays to have it done properly.
What blocks drains around Mandurah
Tree roots
The biggest cause of repeat blockages in established suburbs like Halls Head, Dudley Park and older parts of central Mandurah. Many of these homes have clay sewer pipes, and roots find their way in through the joints, then grow into a mat that catches everything.
Shifting sandy soil
Coastal sand moves. Over time, ground movement can misalign pipe joints or create dips where waste collects. Sand can also find its way into damaged pipes.
What goes down the drain
Grease from kitchens, wet wipes and sanitary products in toilets, and sand and lint from laundries. "Flushable" wipes don't break down the way toilet paper does.
Septic and ATU systems
On semi-rural properties around Karnup, Pinjarra, Nambeelup and the Yunderups, a slow or backed-up drain can be a sign the septic tank or aerobic treatment unit needs attention.
Why it matters who clears it
Clearing it isn't the same as fixing it
Hiring a drain machine or pushing a hose down the line might get water moving again. It won't tell you whether there are roots in a cracked pipe or a joint that's dropped. A licensed plumber can run a camera through the drain after clearing it, so you know what you're dealing with and whether a repair is needed.
Repairs are licensed work
If the pipe is broken, the fix involves cutting into and replacing sewer pipe. That has to be done by a licensed plumber, to the standards that protect your home and your neighbours' from sewage problems.
The right equipment
High-pressure jetting scours grease and roots off the pipe walls instead of just punching a hole through the middle. It's more thorough than a hand snake, and in the right hands it won't damage the pipe.
Signs to call now
- Water or sewage coming up through the overflow relief gully outside
- Several fixtures slow or gurgling at once
- Toilet water rising when you run the shower or washing machine
- Sewage smells inside or around the yard
Stop using water as much as you can until it's cleared.
Your pipe or the Water Corporation's?
Your private sewer pipes, from the house to the connection point, are generally your responsibility. The sewer mains belong to the Water Corporation. If the blockage turns out to be in their system, or several neighbours have the same problem at once, call their faults line on 13 13 75.
Stopping it happening again
- Keep grease out of the sink and wipes out of the toilet
- Think about where you plant trees in relation to the sewer line
- If roots are a recurring problem, ask about repairing the damaged section rather than clearing it again and again
- On septic or ATU properties, keep up with the system's servicing
Find out more on our blocked drains and sewer works pages.
Got a blocked drain in Mandurah or the Peel region? Call Drainpro Plumbers on 0413 904 259. Licensed plumber, available 24/7.