How much does it cost to unblock a drain?
Updated 9 Aug 2026
Typical cost per job
£70 – £180
Unblocking a drain in the UK typically costs £70–£180 for a straightforward blockage. Deeper blockages needing a jetter or CCTV survey run to £150–£400, and severe root damage can cost more to put right.
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Unblock sink or basin | £70 – £120 |
| Unblock toilet | £80 – £150 |
| Outside drain / gully | £100 – £200 |
| High-pressure jetting | £150 – £300 |
| CCTV drain survey | £120 – £300 |
Prices are typical UK guide figures and vary by area, materials and job size. Post your job for real local quotes.
What causes blockages?
Kitchen blockages are nearly always fat and food waste building up over time. Bathroom blockages are usually hair and soap.
Outside, the common culprits are wet wipes (which don't break down, whatever the packet says), tree roots, and collapsed or sunken pipework.
How to avoid them
Never pour fat or oil down the sink — let it set and bin it. Use a sink strainer for food and a hair trap in the shower. And only ever flush the three Ps: pee, paper and poo.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays for a blocked drain — me or the water company?+
Blockages within your property boundary are usually yours. Shared or public sewers are typically the water company's responsibility — worth a free call to them before you pay anyone.
Do chemical drain unblockers work?+
They can shift light blockages, but they're harsh on older pipework and rarely fix a proper obstruction. Don't use them repeatedly.
Ready to get it done?
Post your plumbing job free on BidMyJob and local people will bid. No fees, no commission — you pick who you like.