FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
What plumbing services do you offer in Leongatha?
We specialise in blocked drain cleaning, drain cleaning services, and septic tank installation for residential, commercial, and rural properties across Leongatha and South Gippsland.
How much does it cost to unblock a drain?
It depends on the severity, location, and method required. Our blocked drain cleaning pricing is provided upfront before any work begins. Call us for a free over-the-phone estimate based on your situation.
What's the difference between a blocked drain and a collapsed drain?
A blockage is an obstruction, tree roots, grease, or debris and can usually be cleared with hydro jetting or drain snaking. A collapse means the pipe has physically broken and needs repair or replacement. A CCTV drain camera inspection is the only reliable way to tell the difference.
What areas do you service?
We're based in Leongatha and provide drain cleaning services across South Gippsland and the wider Gippsland region, covering residential, commercial, and rural properties. Not sure if we reach you? Just give us a call.
Do I need council approval for a septic tank installation?
Yes. In Victoria, all septic tank installations require a permit from your local council, here that's South Gippsland Shire and must meet EPA guidelines. We manage the process from quotes to compliance.
Who is responsible for a blocked drain, me, my landlord, or the council?
Blockages within your property boundary are generally the owner's responsibility. Tenants can usually refer to their landlord unless misuse caused it. Street or footpath drains fall under council or the water authority. We can help identify where the problem sits.
Are your technicians licensed?
Yes. All work is carried out by licensed tradespeople in line with Victorian plumbing regulations. Whether it's blocked drain cleaning or a full septic tank installation, we're happy to provide our licence details on request.
Do I need a drain technician or a general plumber?
If your issue involves blocked, slow, damaged, or smelly drains, or you need a septic tank installation, you need a drain specialist. We carry equipment and experience most general plumbers don't, which means faster, more accurate results.
Do you offer emergency callouts?
Yes. We're available for urgent blocked drain jobs across Leongatha and South Gippsland. After-hours and weekend callouts may attract an additional fee, we'll always be upfront about that when you call.
My drain was just cleared but it's blocked again, why?
Recurring blockages usually mean there's an underlying issue, tree root regrowth, a partial pipe collapse, or a build-up point further down the line. A CCTV inspection is the best way to find the real cause and stop the cycle.
How do I prevent recurring drain blockages?
Avoid flushing wipes, pouring grease down sinks, or letting hair build up in bathroom drains. Properties with mature trees benefit from annual professional drain cleaning. Commercial kitchens should schedule regular drain and grease trap cleaning services.
Can you handle plumbing for new builds or renovations in Leongatha?
Yes. We work with builders, contractors, and homeowners on new builds and renovations across Leongatha and the surrounding area. This includes drainage system installation, septic tank installation, and ensuring everything meets local council and EPA requirements before handover.
Up-to-Date Tools and Equipment
At Southern Drains, we use the newest equipment and technology available to work on your drain blockage. Modern advances allow us to see the blockage and treat it at the source in a timely manner. We use high-quality CCTV cameras and a high-pressure water jetter to fix blockages. Ask us how our tools can benefit you.