When to get professional help
Get a plumber for repeated blockages, leaking pipework, sewage, rising water or several affected drains. Do not plunge or dismantle a trap that contains drain chemicals.
What have you noticed?
These clues help explain the problem. They do not confirm its cause.
| What you see | What to report |
|---|---|
| Only one sink drains slowly | The restriction may be near that fixture. |
| Several fixtures back up | A shared drain may need professional investigation. |
| A problem that keeps returning | The cause may remain beyond the visible strainer. |
What you can do now
- Check whether the problem affects just this sink or the bath, shower and toilet too.
- Keep grease and food waste out of the drain. Empty the strainer into the bin.
- Avoid adding chemical products. Never mix drain cleaners with bleach, acids or other cleaners; tell the contractor exactly what has already been used.
Details that help us arrange the repair
- Kitchen or bathroom sink, and whether it is slow or fully blocked.
- Other affected fixtures, gurgling and any smells.
- Any drain product used, its name and when it was added.
If you rent or live in a managed building, notify the owner or property manager and agree the arrangements before authorising work. Take photos only where it is safe; you can share them when CID follows up.
What affects the repair cost?
The location and cause of a blockage affect the work required. Ask whether clearing, diagnosis, equipment and any follow-up investigation are included.
Questions before you book
Should I keep running hot water?
Stop adding water if it is not draining. Hot water is not a reliable solution for grease further along a drain and can leave you with an overflowing sink.
What if it blocks again after being cleared?
Tell the plumber how soon it returned and which fixtures are affected. Repeated blockage needs investigation of the cause.
Sources and further reading
These guides cover initial checks and reporting, not a remote diagnosis. If there is immediate danger, move to safety and contact local emergency services. Do not wait for a website enquiry.