Drainage FAQs, Expert Advice & Drain Maintenance Tips

The most common cause of sewer blockages is misuse, but reasons include:

• Fat, Oil, Grease, and Food Waste: These substances can solidify and clog pipes over time.
• Baby Wipes, Face Wipes, Sanitary Products, Cotton Buds & Hair: Non-biodegradable items that don't break down easily.
• Conventional Cleaning Products: Some chemicals can cause buildup or damage pipes.
• Debris, Scale, and Silt: Accumulation of dirt and sediment in the pipes.
• Rodent Infestation: Rodents can cause physical damage or blockages.
• Defective Pipework: Cracked, collapsed, or poorly installed pipes.
• Pipe Obstructions: Foreign objects or tree roots invading the pipes.

There are many reasons why and how a blockage accumulates. The most common causes include:

• Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular cleaning and inspections of the drainage network.
• Sewer Misuse/Abuse: Flushing or disposing of incorrect materials, such as food waste, fat, oil, grease, and wipes. Remember: Bin it, don't flush it!
• Construction Debris: Blockages often occur after property renovations or developments, where building materials or debris enter the drainage network.
• Silt and Scale Buildup: Slow-draining drains and stagnant water create silt and scale compounds, typically accumulating at joint connections.
• Rodent Infestation: Rats can cause severe blockages by either infesting pipes (leading to debris buildup) or causing structural damage to the pipework.
• Root Penetration and Ground Movement: Tree roots can invade pipes, and ground movement can damage or misalign the drainage network.

Common signs that indicate a drainage blockage include:

• Smells and Odours: Unpleasant smells coming from drains or manholes.
• Toilet Water Rises When Flushed: Water backing up instead of draining properly.
• Slow Draining: Water taking longer than usual to drain from sinks, showers, or baths.
• Gurgling Noises: Strange noises coming from drains or pipes when water is running.
• Regular Repeat Blockages: Frequent reoccurring blockages in the same area.

Every job is different. One of our technical drainage specialists will examine the extent of the blockage using our advanced CCTV equipment to pinpoint the exact cause and location of the issue.

The engineer will then update you and recommend the best solution to prevent future blockages.

All properties have different timescales and reasons for cleaning, depending on waste usage.

However, as a general guideline:

• Standard Domestic Properties: Every 8–12 months.
• Commercial Properties (e.g., cafes, restaurants): Every 6–8 months due to higher waste disposal.

If you have any specific queries, feel free to contact us, and one of our experts will explain in detail.