Top 10 Common Drainage Issues (And How to Fix Them)
By Drainage & Plumbing LTD – Your Trusted Local Experts in South East England
Drainage problems can disrupt your entire routine—whether at home or in your business. A blocked sink, a backed-up toilet, or a mysterious leak is more than just an inconvenience—it’s a potential hazard to health, hygiene, and property value. That’s why you need reliable professionals who can act fast and solve the issue right the first time.
At Drainage & Plumbing LTD, we pride ourselves on being the go-to drainage specialists across South East England, with over 900 successful projects completed and a reputation for rapid response, affordability, and guaranteed satisfaction.
In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore the top 10 most common drainage problems—and exactly how our team can help you fix them.
1. Blocked Drains
The Problem:
Blocked drains are by far the most frequent callouts we receive. They can happen due to food waste, grease, hair, dirt, or even tree roots, and cause water to back up in sinks, bathtubs, and outdoor drains.
How Drainage & Plumbing LTD Fixes It:
We respond within 60 minutes, assess the problem with a CCTV drain survey, and resolve it using high-pressure water jetting or drain rods, ensuring long-term flow. Our certified engineers work cleanly, efficiently, and explain every step of the job before starting.
“No mess, no stress. Just fast, professional results.” – That’s our promise.
2. Toilet Blockages
The Problem:
Toilet clogs can arise from excessive toilet paper, wipes, or foreign objects. In severe cases, a blockage further down the drain line could be the culprit.
How We Fix It:
Our drainage engineers use manual unblocking tools, augers, or power jetting, depending on severity. We offer discreet and hygienic service, ideal for homes, restaurants, schools, and public premises across South East England.
We ensure your toilet is back in full working order—quickly and professionally.
3. Slow-Draining Sinks and Showers
The Problem:
Slow drainage is often caused by the gradual buildup of debris in the pipework, such as grease, hair, soap scum, and scale.
Our Approach:
Drainage & Plumbing LTD provides routine drain cleaning, which helps prevent complete blockages. Our experienced technicians clean out the build-up with precision and can recommend preventative maintenance schedules for busy households or commercial kitchens.
4. Foul Drain Smells
The Problem:
Unpleasant odours from your drains may indicate trapped food, bacterial buildup, or even broken or dry pipes.
How We Solve It:
Using CCTV cameras, we locate the source of the smell and remove the cause. Whether it’s a dry U-bend or decaying matter, we deal with it. We also sanitise the affected area and offer advice to keep your drainage system fresh and odour-free.
5. Fat, Oil, and Grease Buildup (FOG)
The Problem:
Especially common in kitchens, FOG can cause thick deposits inside pipes, reducing water flow and causing serious clogs over time.
Why Choose Us:
We don’t just clear fat build-ups—we educate. We’ll clear your pipes and also help you understand how to prevent it happening again. Our jetting equipment cuts through even the most stubborn grease with ease.
Businesses in food service trust Drainage & Plumbing LTD for routine FOG management.
6. Broken or Collapsed Drains
The Problem:
If a pipe has collapsed or cracked underground, you might experience constant blockages, foul smells, or water seepage.
What We Do:
We offer non-invasive diagnostics, followed by trenchless repairs where possible (such as pipe relining). When excavation is necessary, we handle it with care, restoring your property to its original condition.
Our team adheres to British Standards for drainage repairs—so you’re always in good hands.
7. Tree Root Intrusion
The Problem:
Roots can enter even the tiniest cracks in underground drains and grow inside, causing serious blockages and pipe fractures.
Drainage & Plumbing LTD’s Expertise:
We remove intrusive roots mechanically and can reline or replace pipes where necessary. We also offer preventative solutions, like root barriers or ongoing inspections, especially in older properties surrounded by trees.
8. Overflowing Gutters and Downpipes
The Problem:
Clogged gutters cause rainwater to spill over and damage walls, roofs, and foundations.
Our Solution:
We clear blockages, realign broken downpipes, and recommend seasonal maintenance. We also offer gutter guard installation, ensuring your system stays clear even during storm season.
Protect your home from water damage—book a gutter health check with us today.
9. Flooding After Heavy Rain
The Problem:
Heavy downpours can overwhelm drainage systems, especially in older homes or poorly designed landscapes.
How We Help:
We assess the drainage layout of your home or commercial building and provide practical upgrades such as flood barriers, sump pumps, and surface water drainage systems. If flooding has already occurred, we offer emergency water removal and post-flood inspections.
10. Leaks and Damp from Hidden Pipes
The Problem:
Small, hidden leaks may go unnoticed for weeks, causing damp, mould, and structural damage.
Our Technology:
We use advanced leak detection systems—like acoustic listening devices and thermal imaging—to pinpoint hidden problems without damaging your property. Once located, we’ll carry out lasting repairs and ensure it doesn’t return.
🔧 Why Customers Across South East England Trust Drainage & Plumbing LTD
Drainage & Plumbing LTD is more than a service provider—we’re your partners in keeping your home or business safe, dry, and hygienic. Here’s what sets us apart:
✅ 24/7 Availability
We’re ready for emergency callouts any time, day or night—because drainage disasters don’t wait for business hours.
✅ Rapid Response
We aim to reach you within 60 minutes, equipped and ready to act.
✅ Local & Reliable
Proudly serving Croydon, Sutton, Wallington, Banstead, Bromley, Epsom, Wimbledon, and all surrounding areas within a 25-mile radius.
✅ Certified Engineers
Our technicians are trained to the highest standards and continually updated on industry best practices.
✅ Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees, no surprise charges. We quote fairly and stick to it.
✅ 900+ Projects Completed
From minor blockages to complex commercial repairs—we’ve done it all.
📍 Areas We Cover
We’re your local drainage experts across:
- Croydon
- Sutton
- Wallington
- Coulsdon
- Banstead
- Bromley
- Mitcham
- Epsom
- Reigate
- Redhill
- Leatherhead
- Kingston upon Thames
- Wimbledon
- Richmond
- Caterham
- Guildford
- Crawley
- Haywards Heath
If you’re in South East England, we’ve got you covered.
💡 Our Mission
To deliver professional, honest, and reliable drainage and plumbing services that exceed expectations and build lasting customer trust across South East England.
🚀 Our Vision
To be the most trusted and recommended drainage company in the region, known for our speed, expertise, and commitment to customer care.
📞 Contact Drainage & Plumbing LTD Today
Whether it’s a blocked toilet, leaking pipe, or mystery smell—you can rely on us to solve it quickly and professionally.
📍 Location: South East England
📧 Email: support@drainage-plumbing.co.uk
📱 Phone / WhatsApp: 07771 200075
🌐 Website: https://drainage-plumbing.co.uk
💬 Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Drainage problems only get worse with time. Book an inspection, request a quote, or get emergency help from Drainage & Plumbing LTD—your local experts, ready 24/7.