Blocked drain in London? Get it unblocked FAST!
As the premier drainage service provider in London, we unblock drains, toilets and sinks. Householders relying on us delivering good old honest value for money drainage services. Our skilled London drainage technicians use the latest equipment to deliver the best service and prices.
Drainage solutions for London commercial and business customers. We offer the very best value for money service tailored to business customers. So the question is, why choose anyone else? Our expert London engineers are ready and waiting to deliver the very best service for you.

9.74 out of 10


It's easier for you to buy a great service when you're informed. People in London trust us. Businesses in London trust us. With thousands of genuine and independently verified reviews from real customers, our trusted status shines through; our service is second to none.

London Blocked Drain Clearance, CCTV Surveys & Repair


London drain unblocking
With thousands of rave reviews from satisfied customers, look no further than Happy Drains for all your London area drainage needs. Whether in London or the home counties, our network of engineers will get to you FAST.
Our engineers receive regular training to ensure we deliver to you the very best service. Experience and skill plus investment in the best equipment and latest technology helps us to to get your drains fixed good and fixed fast, simply the most highly rated drain and sewer services in the London area.
How much does it cost to clear a London blocked drain?
Best value and service guaranteed for a London residential dwelling private drain unblock during normal working time. Our price includes jetting, unlike some London drain companies who'll try rods first then charge you extra for jetting.
Blocks of flats and commercial properties depend on complexities.
Please call us for a no-obligation quotation.
You may find lower prices elsewhere, but many London drainage firms will pile on the extras.If it sounds too good to be true it is!If you're comparing prices, make sure you get a fixed price including jetting as some London drain companies charge extra for jetting which we think is wrong.
Call 020 7870 3205
or our office mobile
07824 757572
How long does it take to clear a London blocked drain?
The average London domestic blockage is fat and grease based. To unblock this type of job takes roughly 1-2 hours. Unblocking usually involves rodding or a snake to remove the blockage. For more stubborn blockages high pressure jetting may be the only option.
Best value and service guaranteed for a London residential dwelling during normal working time. Our price includes jetting, unlike some competitors who'll try rods first then charge you extra for jetting.
Who's the best drain company in London?
We'll let you decide that, but just take a look at the reviews that drain clearing companies receive from their customers and you'll see that Happy Drains are right up there as a leading provider of drain unblocking and drain repair services. We have thousands of excellent reviews from very satisfied customers. Here's just a few of them:

Blocked outside drain
"very efficient service. Fixed price quoted over the phone and invoice received by email. As promised, I received a call to tell me he was on his way. Once he arrived he got on with the job, with the minimum fuss, cleared the drain, thoroughly tested to make sure it was completely clear and left with no mess."
Clearing drain blockage.
"Engineer arrived on time, he was very polite and worked quickly. He explained everything he had done to me and made sure I was perfectly happy before he left my house. I will definitely be recommending Happy Drains to my family and friends and would not hesitate to use them again."
Blocked drain
"The men turned up and got on with the job straightaway. They were very polite and very helpful. I was very pleased with their work and the fact the drain was unblocked"
Drain clearance
"I have used Happy Drains before, and again they provided an excellent service from the original phone call right up to the finished job. We were out when they arrived, and just got back after they finished, but after a mobile phone call they proceeded immediately. Everything was tidy, clean and in place on our return, so if you have a problem of this nature, I can honestly recommend Happy Drains 100%. Finally the cost of £114 was real value for money."
Jetting blocked drain and clean up of surrounding area
"They were professional on the phone and throughout the process. The Engineer was polite, timely, explained what he'd do and said he'd clean up the area afterwards. Job was done perfectly and their price was considerably better than others and as such represented excellent value! Hope I won't need them again (?...) but should I do, they would be my automatic choice. Heartily and unreservedly recommend them based on our experience "
London drain responsibility
It's not always obvious who's responsible for a particular section of London drain or sewer pipe, but here's our quick guide to establishing who's responsible for London drains when they get blocked or need repair.
Who's responsible for blocked London drains?
If the drain serves exclusively your property and the blockage in the drain is with your property boundary then that is the owner's responsibility. If it's shared or beyond the property boundary then it’s probably the responsibility of Thames Water. Our diagram below makes this much clearer. If in doubt, please give us a call for advice.
Who do I contact about a blocked London drain?
Sometimes London drain issues can only be successfully be resolved by an industry professional. At Happy Drains, we're able to restore free-flowing drains to your home or workplace however serious the blockage. Give Happy Drains a call and our team of friendly, professional technicians can get your London drains back in full free flowing working order, from sinks, to toilets, to the main drains – we have skills and leading equipment to restore flow fast.
Do Thames Water unblock London drains?
Thames Water will only clear drains that are their responsibility i.e. shared London drains or beyond your London property boundary. See our diagram below to establish whether your drain could be shared.
How do I contact Thames Water for a shared London drain problem?
If you think you have a shared London drain blockage or problem, you can contact Thames Water via their websites, but check the diagram below first:
If we find the drain is shared and a Thames Water issue we will charge for our site visit and we will refer you to them for further investigation and possible refund of charges.
Diagnosing blocked London drains
It's not always obvious if a drain is blocked or why it got blocked in the first place, but here's a few pointers to set you in the right direction.
How do you know if a drain is blocked?
An obvious indication that a London drain is blocked is a slow running sink or toilet. Sometimes the toilet over fills or the water even appears to have been sucked out the pan. That is a vacuum caused by a blocked drain downstream of the toilet. Water seepage in the yard or garden is also a likely indication.
Why do drains get blocked?
Never put fats down a London drain! Over time, this will always result in drain blockages. Likewise, paper towels, wet wipes & sanitary products should not be flushed down as they don’t breakdown and result in blockages. Too much paper and cat litter can also be the cause of blocked drains. Remember it’s a toilet not a bin!
Why does my drain keep getting blocked?
There are many factors, but something you need to consider first is professional London drain cleaning. This is because DIY solutions often just don’t work longer term. There could be underlying problems and further investigations are strongly recommended when experiencing regular drain blockages. Cracked or misaligned drains, root damage or accidental damage are common London drain problems that a professional company such as Happy Drains can help you with.
Can a blocked drain cause damp?
No, is the simple answer for a drain in good condition, but broken or cracked drains can cause damp. Drains are designed to be watertight. The water would seep out of a crack or failed joint to cause damp or numerous consequential damage issues. A flooded and overflowing drain will cause damp issues if left unresolved. Our CCTV survey can find all of these problems.
Repairing broken or damaged London drains
Sometimes London drains become blocked or leak due to damage which can result from many causes.
How do you repair a broken London drain?
The site condition would dictate the requirements, but the two main methods are either excavation or no dig technology such as a sleeve inserted within the drain. It depends which option is practical and cost effective based on appropriate investigations. A drainage professional would determine that after visiting site and undertaking a London CCTV drain survey.
Call 020 7870 3205
or our office mobile
07824 757572
DIY tips for unblocking a London drain
If you have the time and would rather spend your money on the more enjoyable things in life then we fully support DIY unblocking of London drains and here's our guide to help you with that. However, when all else fails, get in touch and rest assured our experts will resolve the problem FAST.
What can I use to unblock a London drain?
Try these tips and tricks for unblocking a London drain yourself:
- If it’s a slow running sink, try hot water or a proprietary chemical from a DIY store.
- Hire a set of rods, always try to push the blockage down to the next manhole or drain downstream.
- If it's a blocked gully , it might be simply leaves blocking the grill. Get a broom handle and scrape the gully grill, that might just to the trick.
How do you clear a London drain downpipe ?
If you can safely dismantle the downpipe, it may be easier to give it a go and clear by hand. If that doesn't work or it's not safe, it may need high pressure jetting or an electromechanical snake. Give us a call and we'll give you the best advice.
What kind of vinegar unclogs London drains?
The acid in white wine vinegar can break down fats. Pour some baking soda into the sink then a bottle distilled white vinegar into the London drain. Don't be surprised by the audible reaction that occurs. Then poor hot water into the drain, then repeat. This is best for a slow running London drains.
How do you clear a clogged drain at home?
For a sink, shower or toilet boiling water is a simple and effective method. Simply boil water in a kettle pour it carefully directly down the drain. Boiling water is one of the most effective London home remedies melting fats and grease, loosening debris to restore flow.
How do you clear a blocked sink U-bend?
The U-shaped pipe beneath a sink is designed to use water as a seal to stop smells and drainage gasses from drifting back up and out into your home. The shape of the trap also catches heavy debris and if this is allowed to build up it'll result in blockages. It's easy to clear it, and a lot cheaper than calling out a London drain company:
- Empty the sink with a bucket, take the water and pour it down the WC.
- Put the bucket in place under the trap.
- Loosen the trap by undoing the plastic screw coupler, remove it and let the water out into the bucket.
- Take a metal coat hanger and run it through the pipe and the trap to dislodge any debris.
Unblocking a London drain with a plunger
We recommend every London home should have one. The plunger one of the best home DIY tools for unblocking sinks and toilets. The toilet plunger is the bigger version. A sink plunger can be small or large, the bigger the plunger creates more plunge power – the magic ingredient.
For sinks, remove the metal strainer in the drain prior to plunging. The secret lies in creating a good seal between the plunger and sink or WC. Get the plunger in place and then get to work, with fast, sharp pumping motions. For toilets, the rubber disc must not be smaller than the U-bend. This is vital to successfully unblock a London toilet. Simply push the plunger up and down fast and hey presto.
Unblock a London drain with a hand driven snake
This simply works by pushing and twisting a thin snaking steel wire into the small-bore pipe work that serves sinks, showers and London baths. The cable is twisted and propelled forward by hand and when it hits the obstruction it dislodges the debris to restore the flow. This task takes a little time and perseverance, you will have to remove the trap before attempting to clear and drain using this technique (see our guide above) but make sure you place a bucket under the trap to catch the water.
How do you unclog a London drain without a snake?
Yes, the use of boiling hot water is often effective, and chemical drain cleaner can be also used. Kinetic force can also be effective, such as a water ram or a simple plunger. This uses the transfer of energy to push the blockage along the pipe. This is effective in a sealed system where there are no connections, so the force is focused forward to dislodge the blockage.
Using soda or cola to unblock a drain
You probably have a bottle or two around your home and it's perfect for unblocking drains. To be effective, your favourite bottle of fizzy pop should be at room temperature and should be full fat, not the diet or lite types. You may recall from science lessons at school what happens to a tooth if you leave in a fizzy drink. The same corrosive quality of your favourite cola does the same to a blockage if poured down the drain and left for an hour or two. Give this method a go. It's a little eco-friendlier compared to a dangerous chemical drain cleaner.
London CCTV Drain Surveys
Sometimes the only way to get to the bottom of a London drain problem is to go inside the pipe with a camera and for that, Happy Drains are the no.1 choice of partner to provide such specialist services.
What is a London CCTV drain survey?
A London CCTV drain survey is a detailed examination of your drainage system. The survey will determine the structural condition and the serviceability of the drainpipe. During the inspection we will note all defects and issues to allow you to understand how the drain works and its condition. We use high-tech CCTV cameras that are propelled through the drain to identify and report any issues that might be present.
What is a CCTV drain survey report?
Any professional drain survey should come complete with a written technical report using industry standard software. This details information such as the date, manhole numbers from & to, size of pipe, pipe material, shape, direction, distance (m), lengths, remarks and pictures of relevant observation.
All of this information should be evidenced via a video file for referencing and quality assurance purposes.
Call 020 7870 3205
or our office mobile
07824 757572

Partially blocked washing machine outflow pipe
"Conor was great - polite punctual and very tidy. Sorted out issue efficiently and made clear follow up plan if required. Really appreciated it and would book again without hesitation."
Blocked sewage drain
"Their Engineer arrived on schedule and was extremely professional, courteous and polite. He wasted no time in clearing the blocked drain and gave advice. We will definitely call Happy Drains again in the future if we have a drain issue."
Blocked drain
"Excellent problem-solving solution for a tricky drainage issue "
Unblock Drain
"Certainly! Here's a revised version: --- I recently had an emergency with blocked drains and contacted Happy Drains for a Sunday call-out. I was thoroughly impressed with their swift response and professionalism. Despite it being the weekend, they arrived promptly and resolved the issue efficiently. The team clearly explained everything, putting my mind at ease. Their excellent service and dedication were truly commendable. I highly recommend Happy Drains for any urgent needs and wouldn't hesitate to use them again."
Recent Blog Posts...
In London the following drainage problems could benefit from a London CCTV drain survey...
Bad smells in London
Fractured drain in London
Problems with shared London drains
French drainage problems in London
Land drainage problems in London
Bellied pipework in London
Deformed pipework in London
Overflowing or leaking London septic tanks & cesspits
London CCTV-controlled cutting problem
Longitudinal cracking in London drains
Tree roots damaging drains in London
Clogged or broken pipes in London
Concrete, cement or builders’ rubble in London drain
Blocked or broken London drains
Bellied drain in London
Broken or blocked London sewers or sewage pipes
Cracked or leaking London drains and pipes
Water level problems in London
Joint displacements in London pipes and drains
Overflowing or blocked London drain pipes
Build-up of fat, grease, or detergent in London drains
Collapsed drain in London
London pitch fibre pipework problems
Ground movement causing London drain problems
Vehicle activity affecting drains in London
Failed or broken soakaways in London
Blocked London toilets and blocked London showers
Cutting out tree root mass from London drains
Ditch drainage problems in London
For London blocked drains we use selected local London professionals.
This ensures London blocked drains are unblocked fast followed by CCTV inspections to get your London repairs in progress.
London drain services from a firm receiving great feedback...

Drain unblocked
"These guys were brilliant in dealing with a blocked drain issue. They turned up when they said they would, called ahead to say they were on their way and were friendly and courteous. The job was a bit more difficult than anticipated, but it was dealt with in a timely manner and per the quote. It was a pleasure dealing with Happy Drains and I would recommend them highly."
Unlocking of sewage drains
"Turned up when stated, gave a courtesy call to let me know they would be here within half an hour. Completed work with no fuss. Came through the house to check back drain to ensure job done, took shoes off without being asked. Quick, professional, friendly and polite. Also a HUGE positive they charge a set fee for the job regardless of time completed rather than those that charge per half hour."
Blocked kitchen drain
"The amazing reviews of Happy Drains seem well warranted. Our experience was beyond excellent. Fantastic customer service, friendly, efficient and effective service. Had someone with us in less than an hour. Fixed issue, and cleaned up, then even checked an upstairs sink for us too. Ours was a small job yet I felt like a valued customer from the first call. I cant really recommend highly enough."
Clearance of blocked soak away
"Several people looked at the issue, suggesting that significant works may be needed to resolve. Spoke to Happy Drains, explained things well over the phone, suggested it may be a simple job to unblock it. Arrived quickly, did the job and all seems well. Very pleased"
Main drain was completely blocked
"I called them in the morning. The person who answered was extremely nice, knowledgeable and helpful. An appointment was booked for that same afternoon. The engineer called 45mn before arriving and was right on time. He was very nice, polite and did a great job. They all made the costs very clear all along. My problem was solved, there no surprises with the price which was perfectly justified. I will definitely call them again if I have a problem again."
Serious blocked toilet
"We have a great and professional service to be conducted by Mr. Damian (at Sutton) under Happy Drains Ltd this morning. Damian is so experience and professional to fix our serious blocked toilet within 45 mins. Damian is so patient to explain to us the whole situation. Deeply appreciated. Thanks Damian and Happy Drains team. A good and very reliable team !! thanks again."
Inspection and Jetting of all drains;
"Martyn Roberts, the engineer, is a star! Courteous, neat, tidy, and efficient - he went above and beyond to clear the silt built up from Storm Babet, Storm Henk - was cleared out of all drains into my property - professional, experienced, efficient and so courteous. First in class. Thank you!"
Unblocked an outside drain
"This Company were quick to respond. Very courteous. Engineer on site was very thorough and explained what was to be done. The blockage was soon resolved and we were very satisfied with the outcome and the price. Would certainly recommend . "
Clearing out storm drains on sunken patio
"Very pleased. Harry arrived and assessed problem. Very honest and told me he could only guarantee a 50% sucess rate. On completion he seemed as happy as I was that the issue was resolved. Lovely personable guy. Thanks"
Blocked drain
"Work was carried out in a totally professional manner. Site was left clean and tidy. The issue was resolved in a timely manner."
Clear Kitchen Drain
"Very polite from asking if it was okay to park on the drive to explaining what the problem was, what he planned to do, showing the camera footage & clearing up & explaining guarantee. Invoice came through with amount advised. Would definitely use again. "
Clearing blocked domestic drain
"Excellent service from start to finish. Very helpful on the initial phone enquiry. Helpful and engaging engineer and easy straightforward invoice system. Excellent company - will use again. "
Unblocking a kitchen runaway.
"They arrived within the stated timeframe, the man explained the problem and how he would deal with it. The work was done swiftly and satisfactorily. Wouldn't hesitate to call them again if necessary or to recommend them to anyone else."
Blocked outside drains
"Very courteous plumber, explained everything he was doing and investigated thoroughly to find out the problem and then fixed it. "
Unblocking drain
"The blocked drain was identified quickly. The work was done very professionally and any mess cleaned up. Very happy with the service. "
Unblocking sewer drain pipe
"Happy Drains were quick to answer and respond with Damian arriving promptly the next day, he knew how to unblock the sewer pipe and fixed the problem without any fuss or complication. I would definitely used Happy Drains and Damian again. Thanks."
Blocked drain cleared
"Blocked drain was cleaned out and working again in no time at all . The appointment was made over the phone and the engineer rang when he was on his way . He used a high pressure jet and left everything tidy."
Blocked drain
"Amazing service. I couldn't recommend these guys highly enough. I don't have his name but the young man who came took well over 2 hours to fix our problem which had accumulated over 40 years. He kept everything tidy, was courteous and professional and just when I thought we were going to be left with a major problem his persistence & experience saved the day. "
Call 020 7870 3205
or our office mobile
07824 757572