Plumber Job Guide

Find a Plumber for Blocked drain repair

Work can range from a simple internal blockage to external main-line problems that may need CCTV, jetting or excavation depending on location and access.

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14,391 local providers4.8 avg ratingTypical duration: 1-5 hours

What we'll ask you

4 quick questions for your estimate

Answer these and we’ll generate a personalised range in seconds before you post your job.

Pricing guide

Cost is driven mainly by the blockage location and severity. Simple internal or gully clearances are typically less complex than external main-line issues that may require CCTV, jetting, excavation or pipe replacement. Depth, access and ground conditions — and any required reinstatement, permits or traffic management — can significantly increase the overall scope.

  • Blockage location and severity

    Internal fixture or common gully blockages are usually simpler than external main-line or collapsed-pipe issues.

  • Need for excavation or replacement

    If the drain requires excavation or pipe replacement, the job becomes substantially more involved and provisional allowances are often used.

  • Depth, access and ground conditions

    Deep drains, limited access or difficult ground increase labour, time and complexity of any excavation or repair.

  • Diagnostics and clearing method

    Some jobs need CCTV inspection or high-pressure jetting to locate and clear the blockage, which affects the required equipment and time.

  • Reinstatement, permits and traffic management

    Extensive reinstatement, concrete/asphalt replacement, council permits or traffic control can add to scope beyond the initial clearing work.

Blocked drain repair

Estimated range

$288 – $970

Default scope: A couple of drains in the same area

What moves this estimate

  • Blockage location and severity: Internal fixture or common gully blockages are usually simpler than external main-line or collapsed-pipe issues.
  • Need for excavation or replacement: If the drain requires excavation or pipe replacement, the job becomes substantially more involved and provisional allowances are often used.
  • Depth, access and ground conditions: Deep drains, limited access or difficult ground increase labour, time and complexity of any excavation or repair.
  • Diagnostics and clearing method: Some jobs need CCTV inspection or high-pressure jetting to locate and clear the blockage, which affects the required equipment and time.

Local results

Active providers

14,391

Average rating

4.8

  • “Lovely guys Sam, Dane, Jason, and Tom did an excellent job today installing my new air-conditioning units. I would recommend these guys to everyone. They were always cheerful and…”

    arron harris

  • “Highly recommend Stuart Feoms&S Plumbing. Stuart was on time, professional, and quick to respond. He acted fast, explained everything clearly, and got the job done efficiently. Gr…”

    Michelle Anne Lisao

  • “Believe the 5 star reviews. Rang at 3pm on a Saturday with a blocked sewer pipe. Around 6pm Jim the friendly, informative and very capable "Drain Pro" turns up. Under 2 hours and…”

    Longy

How it works

  1. 1

    Describe your job

    We ask targeted questions to scope your exact job.

  2. 2

    Get matched

    We match you with local providers for this job type.

  3. 3

    Compare and book

    Review quotes and choose the provider that fits.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a licensed plumber for this work?
Yes — this type of plumbing work generally must be carried out by a licensed plumber. You should check the provider's licence and any required compliance documentation before work starts.
How will you find what's causing the blockage?
A plumber will usually start with a basic inspection and may use CCTV or high-pressure jetting if the cause isn't obvious. These diagnostic steps are often needed for external or main-line issues to confirm whether repair or replacement is required.
What if a collapsed pipe or major damage is found?
If a collapsed or broken pipe is discovered, the job typically moves from a standard clearing to a major repair profile and may require excavation and pipe replacement. Final scope and costs usually depend on depth, access and ground conditions, so providers often allow provisional sums until the full extent is confirmed.
Will I need permits or reinstatement work?
Extensive reinstatement, concrete or asphalt replacement, traffic management and council permits may be required for external excavation. These items are often additional to the initial clearing work and can increase overall scope.
How accurate is the instant estimate?
Our estimates are built from research across thousands of local jobs and real pricing data. Use them as a guide when speaking to plumbers — your actual quote will depend on your specific job.
How many quotes will I get?
We'll match you with up to 3 plumbers initially. If you'd like more options, you can request additional matches.
Do I pay anything to get quotes?
No — the service is 100% free for homeowners.
Why do you need photos?
Clear photos cut surprises and price blowouts, saving you money.

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