Sewer problems and drain blockages
Sewer problems and drain blockages
Sewer blockages usually occur when there is something restricting proper flow in wastewater pipes. Common causes include:
- tree roots
- fat, oil or grease build-ups
- foreign objects
- sewer line collapse.
Common signs your drains are blocked include:
- Slow drainage: Sinks, toilets, or baths that take longer than usual to empty.
- Gurgling noises: Your toilet or floor drains may make strange sounds.
- Overflowing water: Toilets may overflow, or wastewater can emerge from outdoor drains.
- Persistent issues: If any of these signs occur at the same time in multiple areas in your house or property, it might indicate a severe blockage.
In rare cases, sewer blockages can result in sewage overflows in or near your property.
If you're experiencing a sewer issue or drain blockage, follow these steps :
Find out where the blockage is:
Where the blockage is determines who needs to fix the issue.
If you think it is a blockage within your pipes:
We suggest you contact a licensed plumber to investigate further. You can find a local licensed plumber, who is also a member of the Master Plumbers Association, at www.mpasa.com.au/unblock or by calling 8292 4000
You can prevent future blockages by
- properly disposing of waste, including only flushing the three p’s down the toiler (paper (toilet), pee or poo).
- avoiding planting trees near pipes. Take a look at our Tree planting guide.
- and using strainers to trap food waste.
We also recommend not using your household appliances such as washing machines while you are experiencing drainage issues.
If you think it is a blockage on the public side
If the blockage is in the public sewer system, it's our responsibility to fix it. You or your plumber can contact us to report the problem. Report the fault using our Faults and outages map or call our emergency faults line on 1300 729 283 (24/7).
We will ask you some questions to work out the likely location and cause of the problem, then will organise someone from our team to attend the property and clear the blockage.
For more information on sewer blockages and overflows, how to prevent them to make a plumbers claim, please read our Sewer blockages and overflows page.
