4.8-Stars based on 208 Reviews

24/7 Emergency

Understanding Blocked Drains in Rental Properties

Tenants in Blacktown frequently express concerns about expenses involved in unblocking drains. Tenants may accidentally contribute to blocked drains by disposing of food scraps in the sink or flushing items down the toilet. This can eventually create material buildups that clog pipes.

Rental providers face the challenge of resolving plumbing drainage issues economically while minimizing disruptions to tenants and ensuring legal compliance. Maintaining drain functionality is a critical responsibility for diligent property owners.

Minor blockages due to hair in stormwater systems or kitchen sinks can often be resolved with drain cleaners, but significant obstructions may require a professional plumber to clear effectively. When attempting DIY repairs on blocked drains, consider the risk of causing damage that could breach compliance.

If you notice signs of a blocked drain, contact your real estate agent or landlord immediately for a quick assessment. Estate agents are required to address issues promptly, ensuring repairs are completed, ideally within 14 days, by contracting a licensed plumber as dictated by written notification.

Blacktown Plumbing Services empowers DIY enthusiasts with informed choices, while our experienced team handles complex blockages using high-pressure water jet techniques. Our plumbers employ advanced technology, including drain cameras, to pinpoint access points during home plumbing inspections, ensuring compliance with Sydney Water’s precise standards. For durable plumbing repair solutions and dedicated customer support, reach out to our team.

Defining Illegal DIY Plumbing Repairs

Under Australian law, certain types of DIY plumbing work are deemed illegal for unlicensed individuals, which encompasses a variety of DIY projects. Using a plunger or drain snake for minor blockages qualifies as DIY plumbing, but major system adjustments require a licensed professional.

Examples of illegal DIY plumbing jobs include:

  • Replacing taps or a leaking pipe, including changing a faulty valve washer
  • Installing a new toilet or sink
  • Repairing burst pipes
  • Modifying existing plumbing infrastructure
  • Altering the hot water system

Conducting unauthorized DIY plumbing without the required qualifications could result in substantial penalties and safety risks.

Blacktown Plumbing Services boasts a team of fully licensed plumbers available 24/7 to tackle blocked drains and plumbing emergencies. Our team is adept at ensuring consistent water flow and expertly resolving blockages promptly. Contact us on 1300 349 338 for advice and repairs.

When DIY Drain Repairs Are Permitted

Under certain conditions, you are legally allowed to undertake DIY drain repairs before seeking professional assistance:

  • You can use a plunger or drain snake to carry out clearing efforts for clogged drains, including minor toilet or sink blockages
  • Pouring baking soda and vinegar down a drain on your own initiative to break up light debris causing a clog
  • Taking apart and cleaning the P-trap under your kitchen sink
  • Using a wet/dry vacuum to remove blockages caused by wet wipes and standing water from sink or shower drains

Simple drain clearing techniques are appropriate for nonurgent repairs and are permitted for both renters and homeowners.

If DIY efforts don’t clear an obstruction, For more advanced issues, it’s advisable to consult with a licensed plumber like those at Blacktown Plumbing Services. Our advanced drain cleaning equipment and CCTV cameras allow for precise identification and resolution of stubborn clogs or complex issues.

When it comes to addressing plumbing issues, unlicensed DIY attempts may seem tempting, but contemplate what can legally be done is essential given the penalties for inappropriate works that could lead to plumbing problems. Shield your premises and ensure your project is completed impeccably from the outset – our expert team awaits your call, at any hour.

Effective DIY Blocked Drain Solutions

There are several effective methods that you can do yourself to try clearing simple household drain blockages before calling a professional:

Plungers

Plungers are effective for clearing clogs in sinks, basins, and toilets by applying water pressure to remove buildup like hair and soap residue. Place the plunger firmly over the drain opening and plunge up and down rapidly to dislodge the blockage.

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Combining baking soda and vinegar creates a chemical reaction that helps send stubborn fat and grease clogs down the drain. Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain, followed by 1 cup heated white vinegar, then cover and let sit for 5-10 minutes before flushing with hot water to clear material down the drain.

Drain Snakes

Also called hand augers, drain snakes are long, flexible cables used to hook and dislodge clogs deep within pipes. Feed the rotating snake down towards the clog, hook debris and carefully extract it. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners which can damage pipes.

If the cost for clearing a blocked drain is unclear, it’s wise to seek a plumber for a precise diagnosis and appropriate solution. Attempting unsuitable DIY repairs often exacerbates problems, so using a local plumber is advisable. For dependable 24/7 drain cleaning and repair services, call Blacktown Plumbing Services at 1300 349 338.

Hiring a Licensed Plumber for Complicated Issues

For drains blocked beyond basic DIY methods, it’s crucial to have a licensed plumber address the complex issue to prevent legal problems or damage.

Examples of scenarios requiring a certified plumber include:

  • Tree roots or collapsed pipes
  • Drains blocked by hard debris like concrete or rocks
  • Blocked sewer incidents that have defied standard DIY remedies
  • Sewer line breaks or complete blockages
  • Installation of new drains or infrastructure

At our firm, they can also provide comprehensive plumbing drainage services including blocked drain repairs and utilise CCTV drain cameras for full inspection and provide pipe relining solutions, as well as advanced hydro jetting to address tough clogs. Our team is experienced in safely extracting tree roots to prevent further damage.

Choosing to tackle complex DIY repairs can endanger your safety, insurance cover, and result in high costs for professional rectification of your drainage system. Protect yourself by letting our experts handle any complicated blocked drain or plumbing scenario.

Around the clock and with swift service, Have Blacktown Plumbing Services resolve challenging blocked drains or plumbing emergencies at 1300 349 338. Our fully licensed team ensures the job is done correctly.

Tenant vs. Landlord Responsibilities

The division of plumbing responsibilities in rental properties is typically delineated between tenants and landlords.

Landlords are usually responsible for maintaining the water supply system and overall plumbing infrastructure to keep it in optimal condition. Regular preventative maintenance can address potential issues before they worsen.

However, tenants must avoid negligence from inappropriate disposal and swiftly report any blockages to the rental provider agent. Negligence resulting in blockages may affect a tenant’s financial obligations, with the plumbing’s age also impacting costs.

For specifics about repairs in your rental, consult Consumer Affairs Victoria documentation or assess the wording of your individual tenancy agreement. This agreement delineates the precise division of plumbing duties as stipulated under the residential tenancies act regulations. Both sides should understand their rights and responsibilities.

Should doubts arise, Blacktown Plumbing Services can advise on repairs that are the landlord’s responsibility; call us on 1300 349 338. Our seasoned experts, who are well-versed in rental premises intricacies, can do repairs expediently, coupled with offering pinpoint guidance.

Compliance with Plumbing Regulations and Codes

All plumbing work in Australia must adhere to national and state regulations like the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) and relevant Australian Standards. These codes outline the minimum standards for designing, installing, replacing, repairing, altering and maintaining plumbing systems.

In NSW, the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2011 also covers plumbing and drainage work. This mandates any work plumbers can do on plumbing jobs be completed by those holding appropriate contractor licences and certifications. The goal is to ensure that work meets health and safety standards and functional requirements.

As a homeowner or business proprietor, it’s crucial to ensure any plumbing work your premises undergoes complies with the relevant legislation. Non-compliant plumbing can lead to health risks, invalidated building certificates, hefty fines, and even orders for demolition.

At Blacktown Plumbing Services, we stay up-to-date on all nsw fair trading and local plumbing regulations to ensure best practice is always adhered to. Our fully certified and experienced plumbers conduct services professionally in line with state and national plumbing codes. We issue compliance certificates proving work meets regulated standards.

For compliant and trustworthy plumbing that meets legal requirements, contact your local team at Blacktown Plumbing Services on 1300 349 338 today. We handle all jobs to the highest codes of quality, safety and reliability.

Avoiding Common DIY Drain Unblocking Mistakes

Attempting to fix minor blocked drains without proper training can lead to hazardous repairs and further issues. Improper force, tools, or chemicals can damage plumbing; therefore, professionals with the right expertise should address such issues, as recommended by fair trading standards.

Make sure to avoid mistakes like:

  • Inserting hands, rods or other objects that get firmly stuck
  • Pouring Corrosive chemicals that can cause pipes to corrode
  • Applying excessive mechanical force that could fracture drains

Exceeding one’s skillset frequently causes leaks, collapses or backed-up sewage around your property that requires professional repair. Before selling your property or seeking professional help for stubborn clogs, simpler techniques like plungers, baking soda and vinegar, or drain snakes can be carefully used for effective results.

At Blacktown Plumbing Services, our licenced team comes out using advanced methods to correctly clear drains. Call us on 1300 349 338 for reliable assistance 24/7.

News & Information

file hot water system warranty claim
How to file a hot water system warranty claim

Unsure if your hot water system is still under warranty or how to proceed with a claim? Our knowledgeable staff can guide you through checking your warranty status and assist with filing a claim if eligible. Contact Blacktown Plumbing on 1300 000 000.

Choose Gas Supplier?
How Do I Choose A Gas Supplier?

Choosing the best gas supplier in Blacktown can help you save money on your energy bills. Compare rates and plans from trusted gas providers to find the right deal for your home or business needs.

Dos & Don'ts Blocked Drains
Dos & Don'ts for Blocked Drains

When facing a blocked drain emergency, it’s important to know the right steps to take. Getting help from a professional plumber quickly is critical, but there are dos and don'ts you should follow in the meantime. Pouring certain chemicals down the drain can make the situation worse.

Do you need a Blacktown plumber?

Shield

Address

Blacktown, 2148 NSW

Contact Our Plumbers

We will call back as soon as possible.

Plumber
Footer
Call Now!