Drainage & Blockages

Blocked Basin Clearance

Blocked basin clearance restores proper drainage when a bathroom sink is slow to empty, overflowing, or giving off unpleasant smells. The service focuses on finding the cause of the blockage and clearing it safely, then checking the basin is draining freely again.

More information

What blocked basin clearance covers

Blocked basins are usually caused by a build-up close to the plughole or in the trap. The service is designed to fix the immediate problem and confirm everything is running as it should.

  • Identify where the blockage is forming (plughole, trap, or waste pipe)
  • Clear common causes like hair, soap residue and limescale build-up
  • Restore normal flow and check drainage performance
  • Reduce odours by removing trapped debris and stagnant water build-up
  • Inspect the trap and waste connections and refit securely after access
  • Provide practical guidance to help prevent repeat blockages

When you should book this service

This service is a good fit if your basin:

  • Drains slowly, gurgles, or backs up
  • Overflows when running the tap
  • Smells even after cleaning the bowl and plughole
  • Blocks repeatedly after short periods of normal use
  • Is in a rental property between tenancies or after heavy use

What happens during the visit

The work starts with simple checks to confirm symptoms and locate the restriction. Access is then gained at the most appropriate point, often at the plughole or under-sink trap, to remove the build-up without damaging fittings.

Once cleared, the basin is tested with running water to confirm free-flowing drainage. Any disturbed seals or connections are checked and left watertight.

After the blockage is cleared

You will get a clear explanation of what caused the blockage and what was done to resolve it. If there are signs of an underlying issue, such as a partially restricted waste run or recurring limescale, you will be advised on the next sensible step.

Where helpful, you will also be given straightforward prevention tips, such as better hair capture, safe cleaning routines, and early warning signs to watch for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What usually causes a bathroom basin to block?
Most basin blockages come from a build-up of hair, soap residue, toothpaste and limescale in the plughole, trap, or first section of waste pipe. Over time this narrows the pipe and slows drainage until it blocks.
Will you need to remove the trap under the basin?
Sometimes, yes. If the blockage is in the trap or just beyond it, removing and cleaning the trap is often the quickest and cleanest solution. The connections are refitted securely and checked for leaks afterwards.
How long does blocked basin clearance take?
Many straightforward basin blockages can be cleared within a single visit. More time may be needed if the blockage is further along the waste pipe or if access is restricted. You will be kept informed before any extra work is carried out.
My basin keeps blocking. Can you help prevent it happening again?
Yes. Recurring blockages often indicate ongoing build-up, poor flow in the waste run, or heavy limescale. After clearing the basin, you can be advised on practical prevention and whether further investigation of the pipework is sensible.
Should I use chemical drain cleaners before booking a visit?
Chemical cleaners can sometimes shift minor build-up, but they can also be ineffective and may damage certain fittings or seals if overused. If you do use them, avoid mixing products and let the engineer know, as it affects safe working and handling.

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