Blocked-drain quotes: inspection, jetting, CCTV and repair
Short answer
A blocked-drain quote might cover an inspection, clearing one fixture, jetting, CCTV camera work or repairing the pipe. Those are different jobs. Ask which work the fee includes, how long the plumber will try, and when you would need to approve anything extra.
Compare five types of blocked-drain work
Ask the plumber to name the job being quoted. A camera inspection doesn't automatically clear a blockage, and equipment charges can depend on time or access.
Job | What it usually covers | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
Assessment | Locating the likely blockage and recommending the next step | Does the fee include any clearing? |
Single-fixture clearing | Trying to clear a toilet, sink or nearby obstruction | Does it also cover the main drain? |
High-pressure jetting | Using specialist equipment to clear a drain | What time, attempts and equipment are included? |
CCTV inspection | Looking inside the pipe; sometimes providing footage or a report | Are images or a report supplied, and does the quote include clearing? |
Pipe repair | Excavating, altering or replacing damaged drainage | What access, reinstatement, licence class and certificates are included? |
When a camera or second visit is proposed
Ask what the plumber found that makes another step useful, what extra work and access it involves, and whether you will receive CCTV images or a written report. Check whether the quote says jetting AND camera or jetting OR camera. Request an updated price before the work proceeds.
Before approving further non-urgent work, ask where the plumber believes the blockage is: one fixture, your private drain, a shared private drain or the water business's sewer. Ask what evidence, footage or report supports that location. Shared drains can be privately owned, and responsibility depends on the actual sewer connection. If the blockage may be in the water business's assets, check with your local water business before authorising more work (see South East Water and Yarra Valley Water). If sewage is overflowing, follow the urgent safety advice below.
If sewage is overflowing
Keep people and pets away from the affected area and seek urgent advice from a suitably qualified plumber. This article is not a guide to safely handling contaminated water.
Before accepting the quote
Confirm whether the charge includes attendance, GST, equipment, testing, a return visit and any required compliance paperwork. Physical repair or alteration of drainage may need a plumber authorised for regulated drainage work; see How to check a Victorian plumber's registration and paperwork.
For general attendance and labour fees, see Plumber call-out fees and hourly rates in Melbourne.
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