Who to call first for a major sewer blockage in Melbourne

If you have a major sewer blockage in Melbourne, call us first on 1800 571 216 so we can triage the issue and dispatch a licensed plumber immediately.

We are OnCall Emergency Plumbers and we provide 24/7 plumbing services for homes, businesses and industrial sites. For life‑threatening incidents, call Triple Zero (000) straight away.

If the problem looks like it involves a public asset, we’ll tell you when to use the water authority contact number 131 722. Melbourne Water also handles general enquiries on that number between 8:30am and 5pm on weekdays.

We explain the difference between private property pipework and assets managed by others, so your account is protected from unnecessary costs. We work fast to contain faults, protect property and restore service using quality parts from reputable brands.

Key Takeaways

  • Call OnCall on 1800 571 216 first for urgent triage and an on‑site plumber.
  • Use 000 for life‑threatening emergencies and 131 722 for Melbourne Water issues.
  • We will advise if the fault is on private property or a public asset to protect your account.
  • Our team can manage containment, coordinate with relevant bodies and restore service fast.
  • We operate 24/7 and prioritise safety, speed and affordable repairs.

Urgent steps for a major sewer blockage in Melbourne

Major blockages require urgent triage; phone our team now so we can dispatch the right crew.

We operate 24/7 across Melbourne for emergency repairs to blocked drains, burst pipes and leaks. If you suspect a serious sewer problem, please call 1800 571 216 so we can assess risk and send a technician straight away.

When to also notify authorities for faults, emergencies and pollution

We will advise if you need to call Melbourne Water on 131 722 for downstream faults and urgent issues. For pollution or stormwater contamination, we’ll direct you to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842.

Safety first: signs of a sewer fault, overflow or property risk

  • Multiple fixtures backing up, foul smells or gurgling noises.
  • Overflow from relief points or fast pooling near inspection openings.
  • Keep people clear, switch off nearby electrical items and avoid using taps to reduce surcharge.

What information we’ll ask for to speed up your emergency repair

To fast‑track our arrival, have your address, best phone number, access details and any landmarks ready. Tell us which fixtures are affected, when the issue started and whether toilets or drains are overflowing.

Photos or short videos (if safe) help us choose the right tools and materials. We coordinate arrival times, advise if VIC SES on 132 500 is needed for flooding, and record all details for any follow‑up query with the relevant bodies.

For more on our blocked drain responses see our blocked drains & waterways service. Our on‑site process focuses on safe isolation, clearing and verification of restored flow with transparent communication throughout.

water authority contact options and accessible services

Quickly reaching the right service can prevent escalation and avoid unnecessary repair bills.

Use Melbourne Water’s 131 722 for faults and urgent issues at any time if the fault appears beyond your connection. For general enquiries ring 131 722 between 8:30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

We help you decide whether to call us on 1800 571 216 or the relevant number. If you need multilingual support, call the Translation and Interpreter Service on 13 14 50 and ask for:

  • 13 13 75 for faults, emergencies and security
  • 13 13 85 for account enquiries
  • 13 13 95 for building services

a highly detailed, photorealistic illustration of a national relay service call center, with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The foreground features a large, modern workspace filled with desks, computers, and headsets, with friendly call center operators assisting customers. The middle ground showcases the latest telecommunications technology, including high-resolution screens, advanced communication systems, and intuitive user interfaces. The background depicts a sleek, contemporary building exterior, with clean lines, large windows, and a welcoming entrance. The lighting is soft and natural, creating a comfortable and professional environment. The overall scene conveys the efficiency, accessibility, and reliability of a national relay service, catering to the needs of a diverse range of customers.

National Relay and overseas options

If you are d/Deaf or have hearing difficulty, use the National Relay Service on 13 36 77 and provide 131 722 when asked. Overseas callers can reach Melbourne Water on +61 8 9423 7777.

Number Use for Hours Who to call first
131 722 Faults & urgent issues Any time Melbourne Water (if outside property line)
131 722 General enquiries 8:30am–5pm Mon–Fri Non‑urgent questions, forms and account details
13 14 50 Translation & Interpreter Any time Ask for 13 13 75 / 85 / 95 by purpose
13 36 77 / +61 8 9423 7777 National relay / Overseas callers Relay service hours / Varies Use relay service with 131 722 or call from overseas

For immediate life‑threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000). For flood or storm help ring VIC SES on 132 500, and to report water pollution ring EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842.

If you’re unsure which number suits your fault, call us on 1800 571 216 and we’ll advise, liaise with the relevant team and keep your account details and forms in order. See also our services for on‑site response options.

Why choose OnCall Emergency Plumbers for major sewer blockages

When a major sewer blockage threatens your building, fast, expert action matters most. We deliver prompt, clear and practical responses across Melbourne.

A large, intricate sewer system surrounded by crumbling concrete walls, with water rushing through the pipes and debris blocking the flow. The scene is lit by a warm, yellow-toned lighting, casting long shadows and creating a sense of depth and drama. The camera angle is low, emphasizing the scale and complexity of the underground infrastructure. The overall mood is one of urgency and the need for professional intervention, reflecting the importance of reliable emergency plumbing services to address major sewer blockages in Melbourne.

24/7 rapid response across Melbourne for blocked drains, burst pipes and leaks

We provide genuine round‑the‑clock attendance for sewer blockages, burst pipes and related issues so you are never left waiting. Our office updates you from dispatch ETA to job completion.

Experienced professionals using quality materials from reputable brands

Our licensed team carries the right tools and parts to restore flow quickly and protect your property. We use reputable brands to reduce repeat visits and protect your account from recurring costs.

Cost-effective, transparent service for homes, businesses and industrial sites

We explain costs clearly before we begin. This means you know the scope, timeframe and any permit or building requirements up front.

Feature What we do Benefit
Rapid response 24/7 dispatch with ETA updates Limits damage and downtime
Quality materials Branded parts and durable fittings Fewer repeat visits, lower account impact
Transparent pricing Clear quote and scope before work Simple billing and fewer enquiries after service

If you need urgent help or have a query about a building site, call us now on 1800 571 216. We’ll prioritise your job and coordinate access or after‑hours needs.

Conclusion

For a major sewer blockage in Melbourne, please call 1800 571 216 first so we can triage the issue, attend quickly and protect your property.

Keep Melbourne Water’s urgent line 131 722 handy for suspected authority‑side faults and use their business hours line for any account or service enquiry.

Accessibility is supported: use the National Relay Service on 13 36 77 and provide 131 722, or call TIS on 13 14 50 for interpreter help.

For life‑threatening events dial Triple Zero (000). For flood or storm help ring VIC SES on 132 500 and report water pollution to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842.

We’re ready 24/7 with experienced teams, reputable‑brand parts and clear pricing. Save these numbers, lodge any required form promptly, and call us now for immediate, coordinated support.

FAQ

Who should we call first for a major sewer blockage in Melbourne?

For immediate response, we recommend calling OnCall Emergency Plumbers 24/7 on 1800 571 216. If the blockage poses a pollution risk or affects public infrastructure, contact Melbourne Water on 131 722 as well.

What urgent steps should we take for a major sewer blockage in Melbourne?

First, keep people away from any overflow or affected area. Turn off non-essential plumbing where possible and avoid using toilets, showers or sinks that feed the blocked drain. Contact our emergency team on 1800 571 216 so we can assess and attend quickly.

When should we also notify authorities about faults, emergencies or pollution?

Notify Melbourne Water on 131 722 if the blockage risks public health, pollutes the environment, or affects council infrastructure. For immediate danger to life or property, call Triple Zero (000). Report pollution concerns to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842.

What safety signs indicate a sewer fault, overflow or risk to property?

Watch for foul odours, bubbling drains, gurgling toilets, slow drainage, or visible sewage on the ground. Flooding inside or outside a property, damaged manhole covers or unusual discolouration in water supply also signal urgent issues.

What information will we ask for to speed up an emergency repair?

We’ll ask for your address, a contact number, a brief description of the issue, when it started, any visible symptoms (overflow, smells, flooding), and whether the property is residential, commercial or industrial. If safe, photos help us prepare the right equipment.

How do we contact Melbourne Water for faults and urgent issues?

For faults or urgent issues, call Melbourne Water on 131 722 any time. Use this number for reports of sewer overflows, infrastructure faults or public health concerns.

What are the general enquiry hours for Melbourne Water?

For general enquiries call 131 722 between 8:30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. For after-hours emergencies use the same 131 722 number to report urgent faults.

How can we access translation and interpreter services?

Call the Translation and Interpreter Service on 13 14 50. Ask them to connect you to the relevant Melbourne Water line: 13 13 75 for faults, emergencies and security; 13 13 85 for account enquiries; or 13 13 95 for building services.

How do we use the National Relay Service to contact Melbourne Water?

Contact the National Relay Service on 13 36 77 and provide the Melbourne Water number 131 722 so they can relay your call. This supports people who are deaf or have communication difficulties.

What number should overseas callers use to reach Melbourne Water?

Overseas callers can reach Melbourne Water on +61 8 9423 7777. For emergencies affecting public safety or the environment, use local emergency services in the caller’s country as well as Melbourne Water if applicable.

What other emergency services should we be aware of?

For life‑threatening emergencies call Triple Zero (000). For storm and flood assistance contact VIC State Emergency Service on 132 500. Report pollution incidents to EPA Victoria on 1300 372 842.

Why choose OnCall Emergency Plumbers for major sewer blockages?

We provide 24/7 rapid response across Melbourne for blocked drains, burst pipes and leaks. Our team has the experience to handle residential, commercial and industrial sites and uses quality parts from reputable brands for lasting repairs.

How do we ensure costs are transparent and cost‑effective?

We offer clear quotes before work begins, explain repair options and use proven methods to minimise repeat call‑outs. That keeps downtime and costs low while delivering reliable results.

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At OnCall Emergency Plumbers we provide service to all suburbs in Melbourne and surrounding any time of the day or night, whether it be weekend or weekday.