Our frequently asked questions

We can help with any drainage problem you may be experiencing. Some of the common issues we work on include:

• Blocked drains
• Slow draining sinks or showers
• Overflowing toilets
• Foul odours from drains
• Gurgling sounds in pipes
• Water pooling or flooding
• Tree root intrusion in drains
• Cracked or collapsed drains

There are several signs that you may have a blocked drain:

• Water draining slowly or not at all
• Unpleasant odours coming from drains
• Gurgling sounds in pipes or drains
• Water backing up in sinks, showers, or toilets
• Overflowing toilets or drains
• Wet patches or pooling water

Drain relining is a technique that can repair damaged drains without the need for excavation. It involves inserting a flexible liner that is coated with a special resin into the existing pipe. The liner is inflated to form to the existing pipe surface and left to cure. This creates a new, strong pipe within the old one.

A CCTV drain survey involves inserting a small camera attached to a flexible cable into the drain system. The camera provides a real-time video feed, allowing the condition of the drains to be inspected. This can identify any blockages, cracks, or other issues, and allows our team to determine the best course of action for repair or maintenance. Learn more about our drainage inspection services in Bromley.

While chemical cleaners can sometimes help in clearing minor blockages, they are not always effective and can have negative consequences. Harsh chemicals may damage pipes, harm the environment, and pose health risks. It’s best to use them sparingly and consider professional assistance for persistent or severe blockages.

Getting a drainage survey on a house you want to buy can reveal any underlying issues or potential problems with the drainage system. It provides you with a clear understanding of the condition of the drains, the presence of any blockages or damage, and allows you to make an informed decision about the property and negotiate based on any future repairs that may be necessary.

Several factors can cause a blocked drain, including:

• Accumulation of grease, fat, or food particles
• Foreign objects, such as sanitary products or wipes, being flushed down the toilet
• Tree root intrusion into the pipes
• Build-up of hair, soap scum, or debris in bathroom drains
• Structural damage to the pipes, such as cracks or collapses

Yes, it is often possible to repair drains without excavating and reinstalling them. Techniques like drain relining, allow for repairs to be made from within the existing pipe. Other methods, such as high pressure water jetting can also clear blockages and restore proper flow without the need for excavation.

Bad smells in drains can have a wide range of causes. These include:

• Build-up of organic matter like food particles, grease, or hair
• Blockages leading to stagnant water in the pipes
• Bacterial growth in the drains
• Damaged or cracked pipes allowing sewer smells to escape
• Insufficient ventilation in the plumbing system

Professional drain inspection can help to identify the specific cause and follow an appropriate solution.

It is possible for vermin, such as rats or mice, to enter properties through drains. If there are openings or gaps in the drainage system, vermin can navigate their way into the property seeking food or shelter. Proper maintenance, regular inspections, and sealing any entry points can help prevent this. We can also install rat gates within the pipework. These are one-way systems that allow rats to leave the property via the drains but prevents them from entering.

Yes, we can offer emergency drain servicing. Our team understands that blocked drains or other drainage issues can cause significant inconvenience and potential damage to your property. We will be available to address urgent problems outside of regular business hours.

Yes. Drainage problems can occur at any time, so we are available 24/7 to respond. This makes us the right choice to respond in an emergency, or to carry out work outside of your regular working hours so that disruption can be avoided.

The time it takes to unblock a drain can vary depending on the severity of the blockage, the complexity of the drainage system, and the specific techniques used for clearing it. Simple blockages can often be resolved within a couple of hours, while more complex cases may require additional time or specialised equipment. Our team will assess the situation and provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

This will depend on the age of the drainage system, the way it is used, and the surrounding environment. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have a professional drain inspection and maintenance performed every 1-2 years to identify and address any potential issues before they escalate. However, if you notice recurring problems or signs of drainage issues, it’s advisable to seek professional assistance promptly, regardless of the regular servicing schedule.