Drain blockages are one of the most common plumbing issues homeowners face—especially across Surrey, where older properties, variable weather, and heavy usage all play a part. At SE Drainage, we specialise in resolving blocked drains in Surrey quickly and efficiently. But understanding why blockages happen can help you prevent them before they become major disruptions.
In this guide, we’ll explore the most frequent causes of drain issues in Surrey, explain how to spot the early signs of trouble, and provide expert tips for prevention.
Need urgent help or expert advice? Call us on 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk to speak to our local drainage engineers.
“Blocked drains are more than an inconvenience—they’re a sign your drainage system needs attention. Our team clears blockages fast, cleanly, and affordably throughout Surrey.”
Why Blocked Drains Are So Common Across Surrey
Many homes throughout Surrey were built decades ago, with some still relying on ageing clay or cast-iron pipe systems. These older setups are more susceptible to root damage, pipe collapse, and internal corrosion—leading to frequent drainage faults.
Additionally, the area’s lush tree cover means roots often grow into pipes in search of moisture, especially if there are small cracks or joints. Combined with frequent rainfall, this creates the perfect environment for persistent drainage issues.
The Most Common Causes Of Blocked Drains In Surrey
1. Grease And Fat Buildup
One of the top common causes of Surrey drains becoming blocked is grease from cooking. When washed down the sink, it cools and hardens inside the pipes, restricting flow and catching other debris along the way.
To prevent this, always pour used fat into a sealed container and dispose of it in the bin.
2. Flushed Non-Flushables
Items such as wet wipes, nappies, and sanitary products don’t break down like toilet paper. Flushing them regularly leads to blocked pipes in Surrey—especially in older homes where pipe diameters are smaller and less forgiving.
Keep a bin in your bathroom to reduce risk and protect your plumbing.
3. Food Waste From Kitchens
Another key contributor to drain issues in Surrey is food waste. Rice, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetable peels are frequent offenders. They clump together and lodge within u-bends or pipework.
Installing a simple sink strainer can make a big difference.
4. Hair And Soap Scum In Bathrooms
Hair strands combine with soap to create sticky clogs that slowly build up in bathroom pipes. This eventually leads to gurgling sounds, slow drainage, or standing water.
Use a drain guard in showers and clean it regularly.
5. Tree Root Intrusions
Many gardens across Surrey have mature trees. Their roots are constantly searching for water and can infiltrate underground pipes. Once inside, they grow rapidly and cause serious drainage faults.
Root ingress is a more complex issue that often requires CCTV inspections and root-cutting equipment to resolve.
6. Poorly Installed Or Damaged Pipework
Some homes within Surrey—especially extended or renovated ones—suffer from poor drainage design. Misaligned pipes or improper gradients prevent water from flowing efficiently, which increases the chances of blockage.
This is one of the more common technical causes of Surrey drains becoming blocked and typically needs professional assessment.
Signs Your Drain Might Be Blocked
If you’re wondering whether your drain is partially or fully blocked, here are the key symptoms to watch for:
- Water draining slowly from sinks, baths, or showers
- Gurgling noises from plugholes or toilets
- Persistent foul odours near drains
- Overflowing gullies outside the property
- Water backing up from plugholes
These issues are early indicators of blocked drains in Surrey and should be addressed immediately to avoid further damage.
How SE Drainage Solves Surrey’s Drain Problems
We’ve been clearing blocked pipes across Surrey for years, and no two blockages are ever the same. Our qualified engineers use cutting-edge equipment to identify and clear problems efficiently.
Our services include:
- CCTV drain surveys
- High-pressure water jetting
- Mechanical root cutting
- Drain lining and patch repairs
- Preventative maintenance contracts
Because we’re based in Surrey, we know the local infrastructure, soil conditions, and building styles. This helps us resolve even the most persistent drain issues in Surrey with long-term results.
Preventing Blocked Drains: Simple Tips For Homeowners
Prevention starts with better habits and regular maintenance. Here’s how you can reduce your risk of future drainage faults in Surrey:
- Never pour grease or oil down the sink
- Use strainers to catch food and hair debris
- Flush only toilet paper down the toilet
- Rinse plugholes with hot water regularly
- Clear garden gullies of leaves and dirt
- Book annual CCTV inspections with a trusted professional
With these small changes, you can prevent many of the common causes of Surrey drains from becoming major issues.
Choosing The Right Drainage Experts In Surrey
When selecting a company to resolve your blockage, it’s essential to choose one with proven local experience. We understand the nuances of homes throughout Surrey, from period cottages to modern estates.
For a comprehensive guide on how to choose a service provider, check out our dedicated post: Choosing the Right Drain Unblocking Service in Surrey.
Ready To Clear Your Blocked Drain?
At SE Drainage, we’re proud to be Surrey’s go-to experts for blocked drains. Whether you’re dealing with a recurring issue or an unexpected emergency, our team is here to help. We offer fast response times, transparent pricing, and high-quality service from start to finish.
Don’t let a small issue turn into a major plumbing disaster. Take action today.
Call us now on 0800 654 6065 or email info@sedrainage.co.uk for expert help with your blocked drains in Surrey.
