A blocked drain is something most property owners will face at some point, so here is a guide to the most important questions to ask before you take action.
1. How do you know the drain is blocked?
The signs of a blocked drain are easy to spot: your sinks and baths take ages to drain, your toilet doesn’t flush clean, and there will be a nasty smell. You may also hear gurgling sounds due to air being trapped in the pipes.
- What causes a blocked drain?
There are several reasons your pipes and drains become blocked. Over time, the amount of stuff that goes down plugholes and toilets can back up, especially if it is more than just toilet paper and washing-up water. Regular showers and baths result in body oils, hair, and soap, which build up a layer of scum within pipes and restrict the water flow.
3. What can you do about blocked drains?
Once you know you have a blocked drain, it is best to call in a professional. According to Ofwat, the owner of a property is responsible for all plumbing, drains, and water pipes; therefore, you need to look after them to avoid costly repair bills.
If you try to repair a blocked drain yourself, it could be dangerous to your health and end up causing more damage. If it is the sewer that is blocked, you should contact your water supplier, as this is their responsibility.
When the specialist inspects your drains, they may use CCTV cameras to carry out a thorough drain survey. This enables them to see exactly what is going on inside the pipes; for example, they may see a large crack, a leak, or even a tree root.
If you are looking for a CCTV drain survey Coventry, companies such as wilkinson-env.co.uk/drainage-services-cctv-surveys-midlands/cctv-drain-surveys/cctv-drain-surveys-coventry provide this service.
4. Are blocked drains covered by home insurance?
Check your policy to see whether a blocked drain is covered, as you may be able to claim if the damage was accidental.