Not every slow plughole needs a professional. But some drainage problems get worse, and more expensive, the longer they are left. Here is how to tell the difference.
Problems you can usually try to fix yourself
- A single sink or basin draining slowly.
- A toilet blocked by too much paper, with no other fittings affected.
- Leaves blocking the grid of an outside gully.
Our guide on how to unblock a drain covers the safe options.
Signs you need a professional
More than one fitting is affected
If the toilet, bath and sink are all slow, or water rises in one fitting when another is used, the blockage is in the underground drain. That needs drain rods or jetting.
Water is rising outside
Standing water in an inspection chamber or a gully that will not empty means the underground drain is blocked.
The blockage keeps coming back
If you clear a blockage and it returns within weeks, there is an underlying cause: build-up, roots or a damaged pipe. See what causes recurring drain blockages.
There is a persistent smell
A smell that does not go away after running water and cleaning traps can indicate a blockage or damaged pipe. Read more in what causes bad smells from drains.
DIY has not worked
If plunging and cleaning the trap have made no difference, further attempts risk making the problem worse.
You would need to lift a heavy cover
Heavy iron covers and deep chambers are best left to someone with the right equipment.
What counts as urgent?
Treat it as urgent if:
- sewage is coming up through a toilet, shower or bath;
- a drain or manhole is overflowing;
- there are no working toilets in the property;
- a business cannot use its kitchen or washrooms.
In these cases, stop using water and call straight away. See emergency drain unblocking and our guide on what to do if a drain overflows.
A slow drain that is still working can usually wait for a standard appointment.
What to tell a drainage company
To help them understand the problem and bring the right equipment, tell them:
- your postcode;
- which fittings are affected;
- whether water is rising outside or inside;
- how long it has been going on;
- whether it has happened before;
- whether neighbours are affected.
Before you call: check who is responsible
In England, you are usually responsible for drains serving only your property within its boundary. Shared drains and public sewers are generally the water company’s responsibility. If you rent, contact your landlord or agent first.
If you are in or around Southampton, see drain unblocking in Southampton or contact us.