How much does it cost to unblock a drain in the UK?
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A blocked sink or toilet cleared by a plumber costs £60–£150 for a straightforward blockage. This usually involves rodding, a plunger, or a hand snake — quick and inexpensive.
Underground drain clearance costs more. A drainage company clearing a blocked outside drain with rods typically charges £80–£200. High-pressure water jetting — more thorough, better for grease or root-infiltrated drains — costs £150–£350.
Emergency call-outs (out of hours, same day) attract a premium — expect to pay 50–100% more than standard rates. If you can wait until normal working hours, the saving is significant.
CCTV drain surveys cost £200–£400. Recommended if blockages recur, if you are buying a property, or if there are concerns about pipe damage. Shows exactly what is in the pipe and where — preventing expensive unnecessary excavation.
Check responsibility first: blockages inside your property boundary are your responsibility. Shared drains and those in the road are the water company's responsibility — contact them first (it's free). Be cautious about drainage companies that contact you proactively, as prices can be inflated.
For blocked sinks and slow drains, always try DIY first: a plunger, clearing the U-bend, a drain snake, or boiling water with washing-up liquid often works. See our guide to clearing a slow-draining sink for step-by-step instructions.
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