A blocked drain in Mitcham might seem like a simple plumbing issue, but sometimes the blockage is only a symptom of a bigger problem.
Blocked Drain Investigation in Mitcham
A Mitcham homeowner contacted H2PRO Plumbing after their sink became blocked. When our plumber attended, the first step was to try clearing the blockage using traditional methods, but unfortunately the blockage couldn’t be removed with plunging alone.
To find out what was really happening, we used a high-pressure drain jetter together with a CCTV drain camera. This allowed us to clear the build-up inside the pipe while also seeing exactly what was causing the problem.
Tree Roots Causing Drain Problems
The camera inspection revealed a build-up of debris and tree root intrusion inside the drain. The roots had entered the pipe approximately 700mm underground, where the existing drain changed from PVC pipe to an older earthenware section. This connection was also slightly misaligned, creating a weak point where future blockages could occur.
During the inspection, we also identified that the sink waste connection was not compliant. The existing open grate did not have the correct trap installed, meaning sewer odours could escape at ground level.
Recommended Repairs
To prevent ongoing issues, we provided a solution to bring the drainage system back up to standard, including:
✅ Installing a compliant overflow relief gully and reconnecting the sink waste correctly
✅ Repairing the damaged section of underground sewer pipe beneath the decking
✅ Replacing the compromised section where the newer PVC pipe joined the older earthenware drain
✅ Arranging the required drainage inspections and compliance certification
✅ Renewing the hot and cold water pipework beneath the decking to the shed
The underground repair involved carefully locating the damaged section using CCTV and a locator, excavating approximately 700–800mm below ground, replacing the affected pipework, and ensuring the new drain was correctly supported and installed.
Why CCTV Drain Inspections Matter
A blocked drain doesn’t always mean you just have a blockage. Tree roots, damaged pipes, poor connections or non-compliant drainage can all contribute to repeated problems.
By using CCTV drain cameras, we can identify the actual cause of the issue rather than simply clearing the blockage and hoping it doesn’t return.
If you have a blocked sink, slow-draining pipes or recurring drainage issues in Mitcham or Melbourne’s Eastern Suburbs, contact H2PRO Plumbing.
📞 9844 1444
Book online today.
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Tree roots are one of the most common causes of blocked drains and damaged underground pipes.