A blocked drain isn’t just inconvenient — it can quickly turn into a major plumbing emergency. Left too long, drains can overflow, damage property, create unpleasant odours, and even cause health risks.
Adelaide homes and businesses face unique drainage challenges. Older suburbs often have clay or earthenware pipes prone to tree root intrusion. Hard water across South Australia leads to mineral build-up inside pipes. Heavy storms can overload stormwater systems, flooding yards and homes.
At Deadshort Services, we’ve been solving blocked drains across Adelaide for over 35 years. Our licensed and insured plumbers provide same-day service, 24/7 emergency response, and a lifetime labour warranty on all repairs.
Drains can block for many reasons, but the most common include:
Kitchen sinks are especially prone to build-up from fats, oils, food scraps, and detergents. Over time, these solidify and restrict water flow.
Bathrooms are another trouble spot. Hair, wipes, nappies, and sanitary products don’t break down and often cause stubborn clogs. Even so-called “flushable wipes” are a major cause of blockages.
In Adelaide’s older suburbs, clay and earthenware pipes are common. Tree roots easily infiltrate joints and cracks, causing recurring blockages.
Soil movement, subsidence, or old age can cause pipes to collapse or crack. These major issues require CCTV inspections and sometimes pipe relining or replacement.
South Australia’s water is rich in minerals. Over time, scale builds up in pipes, reducing diameter and making blockages more likely.
After heavy rain, stormwater drains can overload. Leaves, dirt, and debris quickly clog systems, causing flooding around homes.
Spotting problems early can save you money and prevent emergencies. Look out for:
Slow draining sinks, showers, or tubs
Gurgling noises from pipes or toilets
Foul odours near sinks, drains, or gully traps
Water backing up into sinks or toilets
Overflowing stormwater drains or outdoor gullies after rain
If you notice these signs, it’s time to act before the problem escalates.
Blocked drains can worsen fast. Here’s what you should do:
Stop using taps and appliances connected to the blocked drain.
Try a plunger if it’s a simple blockage near the surface.
Avoid chemical drain cleaners — they often damage pipes and seals, and they rarely fix the underlying cause.
Call Deadshort Services for a CCTV drain inspection and hydro-jet clearing.
We combine experience with the latest technology to deliver lasting solutions:
24/7 emergency drain clearing
CCTV drain camera inspections – pinpointing the exact cause of the blockage
Hydro-jetting – blasting through grease, wipes, and tree roots
Root cutting & mechanical cleaning – removing tough intrusions
Pipe relining or replacement – fixing collapsed or damaged drains
Stormwater drain repairs & upgrades – preventing flooding after heavy rain
Blocked drain costs depend on the location, severity, and cause. At Deadshort Services, pricing is simple: $150 includes the first 30 minutes on-site, with no call-out fees.
Simple blockages (kitchen or bathroom clogs) – often fixed within this time.
Moderate blockages (tree roots, partial pipe collapse) – may take longer; quoted before we proceed.
Major repairs (collapsed or severely damaged pipes, excavation) – fully quoted upfront.
You’ll always know the cost before work begins. With our lifetime labour warranty, you can trust the job will be done right.
Most blockages are avoidable with simple habits:
Never pour grease or oil down sinks – use a container instead.
Only flush toilet paper — never wipes, nappies, or sanitary products.
Install strainers in sinks and showers to catch food scraps and hair.
Be careful planting trees near sewer lines — roots find their way into pipes.
Schedule preventative CCTV inspections, especially for older homes.
Ask about our maintenance programs to keep drains flowing year-round.
What’s the fastest way to clear a blocked drain?
A plunger may help with light clogs, but for most blockages a hydro-jet and CCTV inspection are required.
How does hydro-jetting work, and is it safe for old pipes?
Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to blast away blockages. It’s safe for PVC and most older pipes when handled by licensed plumbers.
Can tree roots keep coming back?
Yes. Without proper repair, roots often regrow. That’s why we offer pipe relining to seal pipes permanently.
Will insurance cover damage from a blocked drain overflow?
Insurance may not cover misuse (like flushing wipes), but it often covers damage from pipe failure. Our reports help with insurance claims.
How long does a typical job take?
Simple blockages: 30–60 minutes. Larger jobs: longer, always quoted upfront.
Do you service all Adelaide suburbs?
Yes — from Gawler to Victor Harbor, the Hills to the coast, Deadshort Services has you covered.
Over 35 years of Adelaide plumbing experience
Licensed, insured, and police-cleared plumbers
Transparent pricing with no call-out fees
Lifetime labour warranty on all drain repairs
Transparent pricing with no call-out fees
Fast emergency response across Adelaide suburbs, check out our suburb coverage here
One Number. One Call. Multiple Trades. – the Deadshort Services multi trades advantage check us out here.
Blocked drains won’t clear themselves, and waiting too long risks major water damage. With Deadshort Services, you get Adelaide’s trusted plumbers — fast, professional, and backed by decades of experience.
Need help now? Call us today for same-day blocked drain repairs anywhere in Adelaide.
Blocked drains can’t wait. Overflowing sinks, toilets, and stormwater drains risk property damage and health hazards.
Deadshort Services provides true 24/7 emergency blocked drain repairs across Adelaide. Our vans are fully stocked with CCTV cameras and hydro-jetting machines, ready to fix blockages on the spot.
With over 35 years of plumbing experience and a lifetime labour warranty, you can rely on us to restore your drains quickly, legally, and safely.
One Number. One Call. Multiple Trades.