How much does it cost to unblock a drain? [March 2025]

What are the different methods for unblocking a drain?
 

There are several methods for unblocking clogged sinks, showers, baths and toilets. Most blockages are fairly simple to clear with a plunger or drain snake, but tougher clogs may require professional techniques like high-pressure jetting or drain rodding.
 

Beyond the classic plunger, here are the most common methods used by professional plumbers to unblock drains.

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What other factors can affect the cost of unblocking a drain? 

Unblocking a drain isn’t always straightforward. The total cost hiring a plumber to unblock a drain can vary depending on who you book with, when you book, and any additional services that you may need. 
 

1. When you book

Some blockages simply can’t wait. Same-day or next-day callouts typically come at a premium, and emergency plumber services on weekends or bank holidays can be even more expensive. To keep costs down, try to schedule your plumber at least a few days in advance whenever possible.

2. Who you book with

Booking with a self-employed, independent plumber will generally be cheaper than a larger tradesperson company. Many sole traders will operate below the VAT threshold - meaning you could save paying 20% VAT on top of the cost of their services. 

Of course, booking with an established tradesperson company, like Housekeep, comes with it’s advantages. You’ll have access to a wider choice of slots, as well as same day and next day availability. If anything were to go wrong, you’ll also have access to a responsive customer support service to help sort out any issues right away. 

3.  CCTV surveying costs 

If the blockage is particularly stubborn, your plumber may suggest surveying the drain so get a better idea of what is going on down there. This involves feeding a small camera attached to a flexible rod down the drain to inspect the blockage and assess any potential damage to the pipes. This doesn’t come cheap though, often ranging from £150 - £200 to carry out. 

4. Whether you need to fix any drain damage

Once the blockage is cleared, your plumber may discover damage to the drain, such as leaks or cracks. Any damage should be fixed right away to avoid further issues. Your plumber may suggest adding a new drain lining - which can cost around £300 per linear metre. If your drain has small cracks, your plumber may need to patch up the cracks with sealant. In really severe cases the whole drain may need to be replaced, which can cost upwards of £600 per metre. 

5. Whether you need to get your drains cleaned

After unblocking your drain, a deep clean is highly recommended to help prevent future blockages. This removes built-up grease, hair, dirt, and other debris that could lead to recurring issues. Professional drain cleaning typically costs between £80 - £120. This may sound steep but it's a worth while investment. A clean drain will mean your drains stay clean and clear for longer, avoiding the hassle and costs of calling out a plumber again.  
 

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How long does it take to unblock a drain? 

It’s hard to say exactly how long it takes to unblock a drain as it depends on how stubborn the clog is. A professional plumber will typically take no more than an hour to unblock a drain, but this can increase to three hours if the blockage is particularly tricky to clear or camera surveying is needed. If your drains need professionally cleaning or have any damages to be fixed, this will of course increase the total service time. 
 

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How do drains get blocked in the first place? 
 

There's typically a few different reasons as to why a drain can become blocked. Sometimes it's down to improper drain care but other times, it's due to the actual pipes themselves.

1. Grime build up
 

Over time, hair, soap scum, grease, and food debris accumulate in your drains, leading to blockages. Be careful of what actually goes down your drains, and consider buying a sink strainer to catch any bits of debris. 

2. Flushing non-flushable items

Flushing anything other than toilet paper and waste can quickly clog your drains. Items like wipes, sanitary products, nappies, and paper towels should always be disposed of in a bin instead.
 

3. Drain pipes are too narrow
 

If the actual drain pipes are too narrow, this can mean there’s less space for water to pass through, meaning water takes longer to drain and any grime build-up is tougher to pass. Narrow drains are more common with older properties, which can’t handle modern water demands, such as dishwashers and washing machines. It may be worth considering replacing to wider pipes if this is causing frequent issues. 
 

4. Corrosion
 

Older pipes, especially those made from galvanized steel or cast iron, can corrode over time. As rust builds up, pipes become rough and narrow, making blockages more likely. Replacing old pipes with wider, modern versions can be a cost-effective solution in the long run, though installation typically costs around £600 per square meter.

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What are the signs of a blocked drain? 
 

More often than not, it’s usually physically clear when a drain is blocked. Here are a few of the key signs it's time to call a plumber. 
 

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Can I unblock a drain myself?

There are certainly some blockages you can try clearing yourself. If the good old-fashioned plunger doesn’t work, try pouring boiling water down the drain or using a baking soda and vinegar solution. For tougher clogs, a drain snake/auger can help break up the blockage. If you're dealing with a blocked toilet and are in a pinch, there's said to be some DIY methods that can work, such as a coat hanger, washing up liquid, or even Coca-Cola. ^[1]

Although it’s tempting to attempt unblocking the drain yourself, it’s always best to call out a plumber. A professional plumber will come equipped with the best tools to get the blockage cleared quickly and without damaging your pipes. They have the hands-on experience to know exactly how to unblock even the most stubborn blockages and can also spot any underlying plumbing issues and fix these while on the job. 
 

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How can you prevent a blocked drain in the future?

The best way to prevent clogs is to be mindful of what goes down your drains. Avoid pouring oil or grease down the sink - let it solidify and responsibly dispose of it in the bin. Use a drain strainer to catch food scraps in the kitchen and hair in the shower - these are inexpensive yet highly effective.
 

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Where can I find a plumber to unblock a drain?

It's easy enough to find a great plumber - if you know where to look. Checking out groups on social media or local neighbourhood boards are a good starting point as you can often find recommendations and read through reviews of previous work. If your family and friends have had any plumbing work done recently, you could ask them for any local recommendations too. 

Or for a more hassle-free option, it's worth checking out professional tradesperson services, like Housekeep. Just let us know what needs doing, and we'll instantly match you with a tried and tested, fully qualified plumber. Need an emergency plumbing service? We've got plumbers available around the clock, when you need them most. You can get a quote through the Housekeep website. 

Sources
 

1. Homebuilding & Renovating: 7 methods for unblocking a toilet without a plunger to avoid calling out a plumber