Emergency drain unblocking: steps, costs and who pays

A blocked drain gets worse every time you use water. Stop first, work out whose drain it is, then call help. You can send us your job and we will pass it to up to five local plumbers.

What to do right now

Quick action keeps a small problem from becoming a flooded room. Take these steps in order, and stay calm because most blockages can be cleared in one visit.

Stop using water and flushing

Every flush and every tap adds water to a drain that cannot take it. Tell everyone in the house to stop. A blocked toilet that you keep flushing will overflow onto the floor.

Overflowing or sewage coming back

Keep children and pets away. Open windows for air and lift rugs or valuables off the floor. Wear gloves, and wash your hands well afterwards, since sewage carries germs.

Check whether the blockage is simple

A single blocked sink or toilet may clear with a plunger. If several fixtures back up, or a manhole outside is full, the blockage is further down the drain and you need a professional.

Whose drain is it?

Check this before you pay, because it can save you the whole bill. In England and Wales, you look after the drain inside your property boundary. Shared drains and public sewers outside your boundary usually belong to the water company, which clears them without charge. In Scotland, Scottish Water looks after public sewers, and drains that serve only your home are usually yours.

Ring your water company if you are unsure. They can tell you who is responsible for the blocked section.

What does drain unblocking cost?

Price guides from Fantastic Services and MyJobQuote suggest about £80 to £250 for a standard job, and more in London and the South East. Simple sink or toilet blockages can cost as little as £30 to £90. A CCTV survey, used to find a stubborn blockage, often costs about £90 to £300.

Emergency and out-of-hours call-outs cost more, often 50% or more on top. Serious damage that needs digging can cost thousands, so ask for a written quote before work begins. Our plumber cost guide explains how plumbers price a job.

How to choose in a hurry

Ask for the total price, what it covers and whether a survey is included. A reputable firm explains the method, such as rodding or jetting, and tells you if the blockage is not your responsibility. We do not vet or guarantee the firms that respond, so check them yourself with our guide to finding a tradesman you can trust. You can also read about plumbers near you.

Frequently asked questions

How much does emergency drain unblocking cost?

Guides we checked suggest about £80 to £250 for a standard job, and about £150 or more out of hours. Ask for the total price before work starts.

My drain is overflowing. What should I do?

Stop using water, keep people and pets away, and protect your floors. Then check whose drain it is and call a drainage specialist or plumber.

Is the blocked drain my responsibility or the water company’s?

Drains inside your boundary are usually yours. Shared drains and public sewers are usually the water company’s, so call them first.

Can I clear a blocked drain myself?

You can try a plunger on a sink or toilet. Avoid harsh chemicals, because they can damage pipes and harm anyone who handles them. Call a professional if the blockage stays.