We’ll give you a clear answer up front. If you need a quick estimate for clearing a blocked drain in Melbourne, we explain typical price brackets and what affects the final figure.
We are OnCall Emergency Plumbers, available 24/7 for urgent plumbing and emergency repairs across residential, commercial and industrial sites.
Typical ranges we saw ran from small fixtures at about $80–$275, entry machine jobs near $300–$500, CCTV plus snake around $450–$600, and severe jobs with hydro-jetting from roughly $1,000–$3,000.
Travel, access, time of call and added services such as root removal or extra inspections will change the price. We set expectations up front so you don’t guess on the day.
Call us on 1800 571 216 for a fast, local estimate from plumbers who know Melbourne conditions and can dispatch quickly.
Key Takeaways
- We list typical price bands so you can compare likely outcomes.
- Severity, access and after-hours calls affect total costs.
- Simple fixes sit at the low end; main-line issues need advanced methods.
- Early action often keeps work and expense to a minimum.
- We offer 24/7 emergency services and rapid dispatch across Melbourne.
Blocked drain cost in Melbourne at a glance
Here’s a clear snapshot of what homeowners and businesses in Melbourne usually pay.
Typical price ranges run from simple fixture work to severe main-line repairs.
- Basic fixtures (toilet, shower) — $80–$275
- Entry machine / electric eel — $300–$500
- Snake with CCTV camera inspection — $450–$600
- Severe jobs with hydro-jetting — $1,000–$3,000
What changes the price
Location within Melbourne, the time you call and the method chosen all affect the final figure.
Travel fees, complexity and extra equipment add between $50 and $1,000 in some cases.
Why acting early usually saves money
A quick diagnosis — sometimes using a camera — finds the simplest fix. That often keeps labour and materials low.
We operate 24/7 across Melbourne and can advise the most cost-effective approach for your situation.
Buyer’s Guide: what you’re really paying for when we clear a drain
Our first step is a short assessment to decide the right approach for the job.
Assessment and diagnosis: drain snake vs drain camera
We carry out a visual check and, when needed, use a drain camera to pinpoint the blockage. A camera reduces guesswork and often lowers overall cost.
For simple blockages we may use a drain snake or manual snake tool. That option suits short runs and light obstructions.
Clearing methods: manual tools, electric eel, hydro-jet
Manual tools handle hair and small debris. An electric eel suits deeper blockages on longer runs. Hydro-jetting clears heavy build-up and tree root material but adds equipment overheads to the final price.
Allowances for access, clean-up and compliance
We include travel and set-up allowances for tight spaces or long runs. We also factor in cleaning, safe disposal and minor repairs that prevent repeat blockages.
| Service | When used | Why it adds to price |
|---|---|---|
| Visual check | Initial assessment | Quick diagnosis, minimal labour |
| CCTV camera | Unknown internal issue | Pinpoints problem, reduces extra work |
| Electric eel | Entry-level blockages | Effective for long runs, needs specialist gear |
| Hydro-jet | Severe build-up or roots | High pressure cleaning, higher equipment cost |
Cost breakdown by blockage type and method
Below we compare likely price bands for different blockage scenarios and the gear we deploy. This helps you choose the right service for your situation in Melbourne.
Basic blockages: toilets, sinks and showers
For a localised problem at a toilet, sink or shower we usually quoted around $80–$275. These jobs need minimal equipment and quick access.
Entry-level machine work
When a machine or electric eel is needed, typical figures sat near $300–$500. Extra set-up and labour explain the higher price.
Snake with camera inspection
Using a drain snake with a camera to verify pipes commonly ranged $450–$600. A camera reduces guesswork and can save money overall.
Severe jobs and hydro-jetting
For long runs, heavy build-up or tree roots, hydro-jetting moved prices from about $800–$3,000+. Main-line work and root removal increase complexity and may require repairs to pipes.
| Type | Typical range | Why price changes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic fixture | $80–$275 | Easy access, localised blockage, low equipment |
| Machine / eel | $300–$500 | Specialised gear and setup time |
| Snake + camera | $450–$600 | Inspection reduces extra work and digging |
| Hydro-jet / severe | $800–$3,000+ | Long runs, heavy build-up, roots, possible repairs |
We provided transparent ranges so you can call 1800 571 216 for a tailored quote. We use quality materials from our brand partners to keep future problems to a minimum.
Factors that affect blocked drain cost
Pricing depends on several clear factors we assess before work starts. We evaluate the cause and the site’s complexity so we choose the right approach and avoid unnecessary repairs.
Cause and complexity
The most common causes are grease build-up, foreign objects and tree roots. Each cause changes how long the job takes and the tools we need.
Greater complexity often means more labour and possible pipe repairs, so a camera inspection can be the most economical first step.
Equipment required
We select from a drain snake, CCTV or hydro-jet depending on what we find. Advanced equipment adds capability but also raises the fee.
Access and location
Internal fixture work is usually quicker than main-line work outside. Longer runs, poor access or incorrect pipe fall increase time and likelihood of repairs.
Timing, urgency and regional influences
After-hours emergency call-outs need extra staffing and logistics. Urban peak periods and seasonal demand can push prices higher across Melbourne.
| Factor | Typical add-on | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Travel & site access | $50–$200 | Longer travel and tight access increase labour time |
| Equipment & complexity | $100–$500 | CCTV or hydro-jet raises capability and fee |
| CCTV / root removal | $200–$1,000 | Verifies problems and avoids repeat issues |
| Emergency timing | $50–$200+ | Rapid response and after-hours staffing |
We assess each property layout and urgency so our plumbers pick the right equipment at the right time. That protects your budget while keeping standards high.
Common causes of blocked drains we see in Melbourne homes and businesses
In Melbourne properties we routinely trace recurring pipe problems back to a handful of predictable causes.
Toilet paper overload and foreign objects
We saw many cases where excess toilet paper or items flushed by mistake created localised blockages near fixtures.
These are usually quick to clear but repeat misuse raises the likelihood of further work and plumbing repairs.
Grease build-up and bathroom residues
Grease and soap scum cling to pipe walls and narrow the flow over months.
Regular cleaning and simple habits in kitchens and bathrooms reduce build-up and lower the chance of a major blockage.
Tree roots, cracked pipes and incorrect fall
Tree roots often infiltrated joints, causing damage that let water escape and trapped debris.
Cracked or badly laid pipe runs change flow patterns and lead to recurring blockages.
Where fall was below the Australian minimum—20mm per metre—sediment settled and repeat problems followed. Sometimes re-laying is the best long-term fix.
- Warning: acid-based chemical cleaners can corrode metal parts and give off harmful fumes; avoid them.
- Early signs—gurgling, slow water clearance and odours—mean book an inspection to keep repairs small.
DIY versus professional drain cleaning
Simple DIY steps can fix some common blockages, but knowing when to stop matters.
When a plunger may work—and when it won’t
A plunger or a basic snake can clear localised fixture problems quickly and cheaply. Typical out‑of‑pocket costs for these tools sit around $25–$85.
However, persistent slow flow across multiple outlets or sewage backup signals a deeper issue. In those cases, continue DIY risks making repairs larger and more expensive.
The risks of chemical cleaners to metal and PVC pipes
Chemical cleaning products may seem inexpensive, but they can corrode metal fittings and weaken PVC. Fumes also present health hazards in small spaces.
Using harsh chemicals often leads to further damage and higher repair bills than the initial savings suggest.
Why professional diagnosis prevents repeat blockages
We use video inspection and measured methods to find the root cause and avoid repeat work. Professional services typically range from $100–$400+ depending on technique.
Our team brings the right tools, reduces the chance of pipe damage and helps keep long‑term costs down. If you’re unsure, call early so we can advise before DIY escalates the problem.
| Action | When to use | Expected outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Plunger / basic snake | Single fixture slow or blockage | Quick fix, low outlay |
| Chemical cleaner | Minor organic build-up (rarely advised) | Temporary clear but risk of pipe damage |
| Professional inspection (video) | Multiple slow fixtures, odour, backup | Accurate diagnosis, fewer repeat visits |
If you need help, our team is available 24/7 and can advise or attend promptly. For local service in Fairfield, see our blocked drains Fairfield page.
How we price and deliver value at OnCall Emergency Plumbers
We price every job to give you clarity before we arrive. That way you know likely ranges and the method we will use. We focus on practical value, not surprise bills.
Upfront guidance, quality materials and brand partnerships
We explain likely ranges based on symptoms and your location. We list add-ons like travel or complex access so you can approve work with full information.
24/7 rapid response across Melbourne
Our emergency teams dispatch fast to limit water damage and downtime for homes and businesses. We match method and equipment—manual, machine/eel, CCTV or hydro‑jet—so you pay only for what is needed.
Experienced professionals for residential, commercial and industrial jobs
Our plumbers bring branded materials that protect pipes and system durability. That reduces repeat repairs and lifetime expense.
| Service | When used | Typical add-on | Primary benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visual check | Initial assessment | Minimal | Fast diagnosis, low labour |
| CCTV inspection | Unknown internal issue | $100–$500 | Avoids excavation, pinpoints faults |
| Electric eel / machine | Long runs | $50–$200 | Clears deeper blockages |
| Hydro‑jetting | Heavy build-up or roots | $200–$1,000 | Thorough clean, long‑term solution |
Call us on 1800 571 216 for a fast quote and immediate dispatch when timing and location affect the final outcome.
How to reduce your blocked drain costs over time
A few simple changes at the sink and shower cut repeat service calls. Small daily habits protect pipes and help us keep long‑term plumbing costs down.
Simple prevention habits in kitchens and bathrooms
Scrape plates and bin food scraps rather than rinsing them into the sink. Use strainers in basins and showers to catch hair and solids.
Pour used cooking grease into a container for the bin, not the pipe. After brushing teeth, run hot water briefly to move toothpaste residue through the system.
Avoid harsh chemical cleaners; they can corrode fittings and create fumes that harm people and materials.
Early warning signs and when to book an inspection
Watch for slow water flow, gurgling, changing water levels or persistent odours. These signs mean act early to prevent larger problems.
We recommend regular drain cleaning for problem‑prone fixtures. A targeted camera inspection can confirm the cause without guesswork and lets us clear blocked lines more efficiently.
| Action | When to use | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Daily strainers & scraping | Every wash-up and shower | Reduces hair, food and grease entering pipes |
| Hot water flush | After toothpaste or light residues | Helps keep pipes clearer between services |
| Regular professional cleaning | Recurring slow flow or odour | Prevents escalation and lowers cumulative costs |
If you’d like tailored advice or a maintenance plan, call us on 1800 571 216 for a Melbourne inspection or scheduled service. We’ll help you clear blocked areas efficiently and protect your plumbing for longer.
Conclusion
To finish, we highlight the key points so you can act with confidence. The typical blocked drain cost ranges sit from basic fixture work ($80–$275) to entry machine jobs ($300–$500), snake plus inspection ($450–$600) and severe cases up to $1,000–$3,000+.
Price depends on blockage type, access and chosen method. Severe blockages, tree roots and pipe damage may need higher‑end equipment and occasional repairs to protect the wider system.
We offer 24/7 emergency service across Melbourne, use reputable materials and experienced professionals, and give transparent pricing up front. Call 1800 571 216 for a fast quote and prompt dispatch.
Thank you for considering OnCall Emergency Plumbers — we’re ready to help resolve problems quickly and reliably.
FAQ
How much does a clogged sewer or pipe take to clear in Melbourne?
Prices vary with the job. For simple sinks or toilets we typically quote from about to 5. For machine work using an electric eel or auger expect roughly 0–0. Camera inspection combined with snaking is usually around 0–0. Severe obstructions needing hydro-jetting or excavation can range from 0 to ,000 or more. Final figures depend on access, time of day and the exact repairs required.
Can you give a quick summary of typical price ranges?
Yes. Basic clears (sinks, showers, toilets) sit at the low end. Mechanical snaking and machine work occupy the mid-range. CCTV inspections add to the price but reduce guesswork. High-pressure water jetting and jobs involving roots, pipe repairs or excavation are the most expensive categories.
What factors change the final price: location, timing, method and severity?
Three main drivers influence the bill: where the issue is located (inside a bathroom versus the main sewer line), when we attend (after-hours and weekends attract premiums), and which method we must use (manual snaring, electric eel, camera inspection or hydro-jet). Complexity, such as deep roots or collapsed pipes, adds labour and equipment time.
Why does acting early usually save us money?
Early intervention prevents minor blockages developing into major failures. A simple hand snare or plunger call-out is quick and inexpensive. If left, grease, roots or debris can cause pipe damage, requiring costly repairs, excavation or replacement. We recommend prompt inspection at the first sign of slow flow or repeated backups.
What are we paying for when you assess and diagnose — snake versus camera?
Assessment covers time, expertise and tools. A drain snake clears many obstructions without visual confirmation. A camera inspection costs more but shows exact location and cause, helping us decide whether snaking, jetting or repair is needed. The upfront investment in CCTV often avoids unnecessary work later.
Which clearing methods do we use: manual, electric eel or hydro-jet?
We use a stepwise approach. Manual tools and plungers suit simple indoor traps. Electric eels or powered augers handle heavier blockages in longer runs. Hydro-jetting uses high-pressure water to remove grease, scale and roots and is best for severe or recurring problems. We choose the least invasive method that will reliably fix the issue.
Do you include access, clean-up and compliance in your quotes?
Yes. Our quotes account for gaining access, protecting your property, clearing debris and leaving the area clean. Where repairs require permits or compliance checks, we factor those costs and arrange any necessary paperwork or inspections.
What are the approximate prices by obstruction type and method?
As a guide: basic household clogs (toilets, sinks, showers) typically sit between –5. Machine snaking is generally 0–0. Snaking combined with CCTV inspection is about 0–0. Severe issues needing hydro-jetting, root removal or excavation start around 0 and can exceed ,000 depending on damage and access.
How do cause and complexity affect the quote — grease, foreign objects, tree roots?
Soft blockages from hair, soap or grease usually clear with standard tools. Hard items, collapsed sections or root intrusion require heavier equipment and longer job times. Roots often need jetting and sometimes pipe relining or replacement, which increases the price substantially.
What equipment might be required — snake, camera, hydro-jet?
Standard kits include manual snakes and powered augers. For diagnosis we deploy CCTV cameras to inspect pipe condition. For stubborn deposits and roots we use hydro-jet units. If pipe damage appears, we can provide relining or excavation options and estimate repair costs.
How does access and location change pricing — internal versus main line?
Internal fixtures are quicker to reach and cheaper to service. Main sewer line work often needs excavation, traffic management or access pits and takes longer, so prices are higher. Property layout, multi-storey runs and tight access also increase labour time.
Do after-hours and emergency call-outs cost more?
Yes. We operate 24/7, but evenings, public holidays and emergency attendance attract higher call-out and labour rates to cover rapid response and staff rostering.
Are regional and seasonal factors relevant to pricing?
They are. In busy periods or in remote suburbs travel time and demand can lift prices. Weather events that cause increased flooding or root activity may also push up service times and material needs.
What common causes do we see in Melbourne homes and businesses?
Frequent causes include excess toilet paper and foreign items, grease and food build-up in kitchens, hair and soap scum in bathrooms, plus tree roots invading joints and cracked pipes from ground movement or poor installation.
When will a plunger work — and when won’t it?
A plunger can clear blockages in toilets or basins where the trap is filled with soft debris or paper. It won’t help for obstructions beyond the trap, hardened grease, root intrusion or collapsed pipes. If plunging fails within a few attempts, call us to avoid worsening the issue.
Are chemical cleaners safe for metal and PVC pipes?
Chemical cleaners can damage older metal pipes and corrode fittings over time. They also often fail on solid obstructions and can harm the environment. We advise against routine use and recommend mechanical or water-jet solutions performed by professionals.
Why does professional diagnosis prevent repeat issues?
Proper diagnosis finds the root cause — whether buildup, tree roots, offset joints or pipe damage. Treating the symptom only provides short-term relief. Our inspections and targeted treatments reduce recurrence and can extend pipe life.
How do we price and deliver value at OnCall Emergency Plumbers?
We provide transparent quotes, use quality materials and partner with trusted brands for parts and equipment. Our teams aim for fast, reliable fixes while minimising disruption. We outline options clearly so you choose the level of repair that suits budget and long-term needs.
Do you offer 24/7 rapid response across Melbourne?
Yes. We operate around the clock with crews positioned to respond quickly across metropolitan Melbourne. Emergency attendance is available and our dispatch team prioritises urgent situations.
Can you handle residential, commercial and industrial jobs?
We have experience across all sectors. Residential work typically focuses on fixtures and branch lines, while commercial and industrial jobs often need larger equipment, planning and safety management. We scale our teams and tools to match the task.
How can we reduce future service bills with simple prevention habits?
Regularly wipe greasy pans before washing, fit hair traps in showers, avoid flushing non-flushable items and schedule periodic inspections for older properties or trees near sewer lines. These small actions cut the chance of major repairs.
What early warning signs should prompt booking an inspection?
Slow draining, gurgling noises, unpleasant odours, frequent backups or soggy patches in the yard near outlets indicate developing problems. Book an inspection promptly to limit repair needs and expense.
How do we arrange a fast quote and dispatch?
Call our 24/7 line on 1800 571 216. We’ll take details, guide immediate steps to reduce damage and send a technician with the right tools for the job. Quotes are transparent and explained before work begins.
