Tree roots blocking drain


Listed under: plumbing, drains, Section, Services

Cause

Roots seeking out water – problems are more likely to occur with older clay pipes or perforated plastic drains 

Repair

  • blockages caused by tree roots can be confirmed by a licensed or certifying plumber inserting a CCTV camera on a long cable into the drain

  • a short-term solution is cutting the roots away with a specialist power tool

  • some plumbers offer patching solutions once the roots have been removed

  • digging up and replacing the affected part of the drain, or the whole length of drain, can provide an effective longer-term solution

  • removing the trees is another option