What changes the price?
- Whether one outlet or several areas are affected.
- Access to chambers and pipework, including buried or locked access.
- The clearance method and equipment needed.
- Whether a camera survey is needed to investigate a recurring problem.
- Attendance time, waste handling and any excavation or reinstatement.
Check what the attendance includes
Ask whether the price covers the initial assessment, clearance, equipment, completion checks and a report. Confirm VAT, any call-out charge, time allowance and the rate or approval process for extra work. A camera survey or structural repair is included only when the quotation says so.
Compare two different scopes
A single accessible blockage may need assessment, clearance and a flow check. A recurring blockage may also need a camera investigation; damaged pipework could then require a separate repair quotation. These are scope comparisons, not fixed-price packages: agree the findings and next step before authorising more work.
How to request a quotation
- Describe the affected outlets, smell, overflow or slow drainage.
- Say when the issue started and whether it has happened before.
- Provide previous clearance or camera reports if available.
- Explain safe access and any restrictions on working hours.
- Ask for inclusions, exclusions and how additional work will be agreed.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the same drain keep blocking?
Clearance may remove the obstruction without resolving damaged pipework or repeated material entering the drain. A further investigation can help distinguish these causes.
Is a camera survey always needed?
No. Ask what question the survey would answer, whether access allows it and whether the report is included. A recurring fault or uncertain pipe condition may justify further investigation.
Should I contact the water company first?
Check responsibility before commissioning work. Shared sewers and lateral drains connected to the public network are generally the sewerage company’s responsibility; private drains serving a property are generally the owner’s. Ask your provider if the ownership is unclear.
Drain ownership and related help
See CCW’s explanation of drain and sewer responsibility, then browse drainage services.
Discuss your building
For your property, contact Black & White Property Services with the address, the problem and any photographs taken safely. Tell us who can provide access so we can discuss the next step.
