Plumber uses high-pressure jet blaster and CCTV camera to clear a blocked sewer in a Sutherland Shire backyard.

Fixing a Blocked Sewer in Sutherland Shire

May 28, 20250

A blocked sewer is more than just a plumbing inconvenience, it’s a serious issue that can lead to property damage, health hazards, and unpleasant smells throughout your home. If you’re in Sutherland Shire and experiencing slow drains, gurgling toilets, or wastewater backing up into your shower, it’s time to act fast. In this guide, SE Plumbing outlines the causes, signs, and solutions for fixing a blocked sewerand explains why local expertise makes all the difference.

What Causes Sewer Blockages in Sutherland Shire?

Sewer systems in many parts of the Shire were built decades ago, often with older pipe materials like clay or earthenware. Over time, these systems become vulnerable to:

  • Tree roots breaking into cracked pipes
  • Buildup of grease, fat, and non-flushable items like wipes or sanitary products
  • Soil movement causing pipe misalignment or collapse
  • Heavy rainfall overwhelming stormwater-linked sewer systems

For more details, visit our Blocked Drains service page to understand how these issues develop.

Signs You Have a Blocked Sewer

A single slow-draining sink might just be a minor issue, but when multiple fixtures are affected, it’s often a sign of a sewer line blockage. Common indicators include:

  • Toilets that gurgle or rise when other fixtures are used
  • Water backing up into showers or floor drains
  • Strong, persistent sewage smells in bathrooms or outdoor areas
  • Overflowing sewer inspection points in the garden
  • Blocked drains affecting multiple rooms at once

These signs mean it’s time to call a professional. Visit our Emergency Plumbing service page for 24/7 assistance.

Step-by-Step: How We Fix Blocked Sewers

1. Inspection and Diagnosis

We start by locating the blockage using CCTV drain cameras, inserted through outdoor inspection points or internal access areas.

  • This allows us to see exactly where the issue is
  • We can detect tree roots, collapsed sections, or foreign objects

For underground leaks or persistent issues, our Leak Detection and Prevention tools offer precision results.

2. High-Pressure Jet Blasting

Once the cause is identified, we clear the sewer using a high-pressure water jetter.

  • This powerful tool cuts through roots, fat, and sediment
  • It’s safe for all types of pipes and cleans the walls of the drain

Jetting is more effective than chemical treatments and protects your pipes from long-term damage.

3. Mechanical Root Cutting (If Needed)

If the blockage is caused by invasive tree roots, we use a mechanical root cutter.

  • This spinning blade tool slices roots without damaging the pipe
  • It clears the blockage and prepares the pipe for further repair if necessary

Recurrent root issues may indicate broken pipes. Learn more on our Broken or Damaged Pipes page.

4. Pipe Relining or Repairs

If the sewer pipe is damaged beyond clearing, we offer trenchless relining options.

  • No digging required in most cases
  • A new lining is installed inside the existing pipe
  • Long-lasting and cost-effective for Sutherland Shire homes

This method is ideal for older suburbs like Miranda, Engadine, and Cronulla where excavation would be costly or disruptive.

Why You Shouldn’t Delay Sewer Repairs

Blocked sewers can lead to:

  • Overflowing toilets and drains, resulting in water damage
  • Exposure to harmful bacteria and gases
  • Structural damage to the home’s foundation if leaks go undetected
  • Pest attraction from stagnant waste and moisture

Learn more in our blog on Why You Should Never Ignore a Blocked Drain.

Why SE Plumbing Is the Right Choice for Sutherland Shire Residents

We’re based locally, and we understand the common sewer issues faced by homeowners and businesses across the Shire. Here’s why we’re trusted across Engadine, Kirrawee, Caringbah, and beyond:

  • 20+ years of blocked sewer expertise
  • Fully licensed and insured plumbers
  • Same-day service and 24/7 emergency support
  • Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
  • Latest CCTV and jet blasting equipment

Call us on 0414 651 351 or book online to schedule a visit.

Preventing Future Sewer Blockages

Once your sewer is cleared, take steps to reduce the chance of future issues:

  • Don’t flush wipes, nappies, or hygiene products
  • Avoid tipping fat or grease down the sink
  • Have your sewer line inspected every 1–2 years
  • Keep tree roots trimmed if they’re near underground plumbing
  • Install grates and strainers in wet areas

For proactive maintenance, ask about our regular plumbing checkups via our Contact page.

Final Thoughts

Sewer blockages are stressful, but with the right plumber, they’re also fixable. SE Plumbing provides fast, effective blocked sewer solutions to homeowners and businesses across Sutherland Shire. From camera inspections to high-pressure clearing and no-dig repairs, we’ll get your drains back to full flow and your home back to normal.
Call SE Plumbing today on 0414 651 351 or request a quote online for expert sewer repair and drainage services you can trust.