How Much Does It Cost to Unblock a Drain in Melbourne? (2025 Guide)

A blocked drain is one of the most common plumbing calls in Melbourne — but how much should you actually pay to fix it? Prices vary depending on the type of blockage, how severe it is, and whether additional work like CCTV inspection or relining is needed. Here’s a clear breakdown of what to expect in 2025.

Typical Blocked Drain Costs in Melbourne

Here’s a realistic range for common blocked drain scenarios in Melbourne:

• Standard drain clear (water jetting) — $150 to $300. This covers most kitchen, bathroom, and laundry drain blockages that respond to high-pressure jetting.
• Blocked toilet — $150 to $280. Depends on the cause and whether access is straightforward.
• Blocked stormwater drain — $200 to $400. Often more debris-heavy and may require larger equipment.
• CCTV drain inspection — $250 to $450 on its own, or often included when combined with a jet clear.
• Tree root removal — $300 to $600+. Roots require cutting, removal, and often CCTV to assess pipe condition afterward.
• Blocked sewer main — $350 to $700+. Main sewer blockages are more complex and may require permit work.
• Drain relining (no-dig pipe repair) — $1,500 to $4,000+ depending on pipe length and diameter.

What Affects the Price?

Several factors push the cost up or down:

• Severity of the blockage — A partial blockage from hair buildup is much cheaper to clear than a root-infested sewer line
• Access difficulty — Drains under concrete slabs or with difficult access cost more
• Whether CCTV is needed — Recurring blockages should always be investigated with a camera to find the root cause
• Emergency vs. scheduled — Calling at 11pm on a Saturday costs more than a booked appointment
• Melbourne suburb — Prices are generally consistent across Melbourne, though some fringe areas may have travel surcharges

What Should Be Included in the Price?

A reputable Melbourne plumber should include:

• A call-out fee (often $80–$150) that goes toward the final bill
• An upfront quote before work starts — no surprises
• High-pressure water jetting as the primary clearing method
• A check that the drain is fully clear after the work

Avoid any plumber who can’t give you a price before starting, or who charges significantly below market rate — cheap jobs often result in repeat call-outs for the same problem.

Is It Worth Paying for CCTV?

If you’ve had the same drain block multiple times, yes — absolutely. A CCTV inspection reveals whether there’s a structural issue like tree root infiltration, pipe collapse, or an offset joint. Without that knowledge, you’re paying to clear the blockage over and over instead of actually fixing the problem.

How to Get an Accurate Quote

The most reliable way to get a fair price for a blocked drain in Melbourne is to call a licensed plumber, describe the symptoms (which drain, how slow, any overflow), and ask for an estimate over the phone. Most plumbers can give a reasonable range based on the description before attending.