What to Expect During Blocked Drain Inspection?

Have you noticed your sink draining slowly or heard gurgling sounds coming from the pipes? Blocked drains can be a frustrating disruption—whether you're managing a busy household, running a business, or maintaining a property. But before repairs can begin, a professional inspection is essential to identify the cause and the most effective solution.

If you're dealing with blocked drains in Dubbo, understanding what happens during an inspection can help you feel more prepared and confident about the process. A thorough inspection not only gets to the root of the problem but also ensures the issue is fixed correctly the first time—saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.



In this blog, we’ll break down what to expect during a blocked drain inspection and how professionals can provide efficient, hassle-free services for homeowners, business owners, and property managers across Dubbo.

Before diving into what the inspection involves, it helps to understand the common causes of blocked drains. In both residential and commercial properties, blockages can occur due to:

• Accumulated grease, hair, or food particles.
• Tree root intrusion into underground pipes.
• Damaged, collapsed, or misaligned pipework.
• Foreign objects flushed or washed down drains.
• Build-up of silt or debris in stormwater lines.

The type of blockage often determines the approach needed to clear it, which is why a proper inspection is the critical first step.

When Should You Call for an Inspection?

Many people wait until a drain is completely blocked before calling a plumber—but early signs can signal a developing issue. Contacting professionals as soon as these symptoms arise can prevent further damage:

• Slow-draining sinks, showers, or tubs.
• Gurgling sounds from drains or toilets.
• Foul odours from bathroom or kitchen pipes.
• Water pooling in the garden or near external drains.
• Repeated back-ups or overflows, especially during rain.

If you notice any of the above, booking an inspection with trusted plumbers in Dubbo is the smart next move.

What Happens During a Blocked Drain Inspection?

Here’s what you can typically expect when a licensed plumber visits your home or property to carry out a blocked drain inspection:

Initial Discussion & Site Assessment

The process starts with a conversation. The plumber will ask about the issues you’ve been experiencing and when they began. They’ll also walk through the property to assess affected areas and external drainage points.

At this stage, it helps if you can provide:

• Details about recurring problems or previous plumbing work.
• Access to internal drains, sinks, or bathrooms.
• Any site plans or plumbing layouts (if available, especially for larger properties).

This allows the plumber to get a clearer picture of the problem and where to focus their inspection.

Visual Inspection & Testing

Next, the plumber will perform a basic visual check of sinks, toilets, floor drains, and external stormwater outlets. They may test the drains by running water to observe:

• The rate at which water clears.
• Whether water backs up or gurgles.
• If the issue is isolated to one fixture or affecting multiple locations.

This helps confirm whether the blockage is local or further down the drainage system.

CCTV Drain Camera Inspection

If the issue isn’t visible or clearly identifiable, a CCTV drain camera is used to inspect underground or internal pipes. This is one of the most accurate ways to diagnose blocked drains.

Benefits of CCTV inspection:

• Pinpoints the exact location and type of blockage.
• Identifies cracks, root intrusion, or collapsed pipes.
• Allows the plumber to record and review footage.

This step ensures the problem is not only detected but properly understood—so the right solution can be applied.

Clear Explanation of the Issue

Once the inspection is complete, the plumber will explain the cause of the blockage and what needs to be done. They’ll outline the best treatment method based on the findings, which could include:

• High-pressure water jetting.
• Drain snaking or rodding.
• Root cutting or removal.
• Pipe repairs or replacement if damaged.

At this point, they may provide a quote or timeline for the work, depending on the severity of the issue.

How to Prepare for a Drain Inspection

To make the inspection process easier and more efficient, here are a few simple things you can do beforehand:

• Clear access to affected areas, such as under sinks, outdoor drainage points, or any manholes.
• Avoid using water in problem areas before the inspection, especially toilets and sinks, to prevent overflow.
• Inform the plumber of any recent renovations or landscaping that may affect underground pipes.

For business owners or property managers, consider scheduling inspections outside of peak trading or tenant access hours where possible.

How Professional Plumbers Make the Process Hassle-Free

When it comes to dealing with blocked drains, a streamlined and reliable service is essential, from inspection to repair.

Why choose professional plumbing services:

• Prompt response times across residential and commercial properties.
• Advanced CCTV equipment for accurate diagnosis.
• No guesswork—only clear solutions based on real findings.
• Fully licensed & insured team with years of experience.
• Friendly service with honest advice—no hidden costs.

Whether it’s a small household blockage or a major commercial issue, the team works efficiently to minimise downtime and get your drains flowing again as quickly as possible.

Long-Term Prevention & Maintenance

Beyond fixing the current issue, a blocked drain inspection can also uncover ongoing risks or recurring causes—such as tree roots near pipes or poorly designed drainage layouts. Your plumber can suggest preventive measures such as:

• Routine CCTV checks for problem-prone properties.
• Root barrier installations or tree removals.
• Upgrades to old or damaged piping.
• Educating tenants or staff on what not to flush or rinse down drains.

By addressing underlying causes, you can reduce the chances of repeat blockages and costly emergency call-outs.

Need Reliable Plumbers in Dubbo? We’re Ready to Help

Blocked drains are more than just a nuisance—they can lead to water damage, unpleasant smells, and costly repairs if left unaddressed. Whether you're managing a home, business, or rental property, understanding what to expect during a blocked drain inspection gives you confidence and clarity about the process.

For accurate diagnosis, clear communication, and professional results, GPS Plumbing, Drainage and Gasfitting is your trusted choice for blocked drains in Dubbo.  From the initial inspection to complete repairs, their experienced team delivers plumbing solutions that are efficient, transparent, and tailored to your property’s needs.

Contact us today to book your inspection and take the stress out of blocked drains.