Our Services
Drain Unblocking
Got a slow-draining sink or a fully blocked drain? We use specialist tools and proven techniques to clear blockages quickly — and for good.
CCTV Drain Surveys
We use advanced camera inspection technology to locate the root cause of drainage problems without digging or damage. Ideal for ongoing issues or property surveys.
High-Pressure Water Jetting
Stubborn blockages, fat build-up, or tree root intrusions? Our high-pressure jetting service blasts through debris and restores full flow, fast.
Sink, Bath & Toilet Unblocking
From kitchen sinks to bathroom basins, we unblock it all. No mess, no stress — just clean, working plumbing again.
Drain Repairs & Maintenance
Cracked pipes? Collapsed drains? We offer targeted repair solutions, including no-dig options, to restore your system efficiently and affordably.
24/7 Emergency Call-Outs
Drain issues don’t wait — and neither do we. Our emergency team is available around the clock to tackle urgent drainage problems, day or night.
Call Us for a quick quote
About Us – Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue
At Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue, we’re your local experts in fast, reliable, and professional drain unblocking services. Based in the heart of Maidstone, we specialize in tackling everything from blocked sinks and toilets to major drainage system issues — and we do it with a level of care and professionalism that sets us apart.
With years of hands-on experience serving homes and businesses across Maidstone and the surrounding Kent area, we know just how disruptive a blocked drain can be. That’s why our mission is simple: respond fast, fix the problem right, and leave your property clean and worry-free.
Our team is fully trained, insured, and equipped with the latest tools — including high-pressure water jetting and CCTV drain inspection technology — to quickly diagnose and resolve your drainage issues. Whether it’s a stubborn kitchen sink blockage or a full system backup, we handle it with efficiency and expertise.
We’re proud to be a trusted local business. Our customers choose us not just for our results, but for our friendly service, transparent pricing, and 24/7 emergency support. No hidden fees. No guesswork. Just honest, dependable service when you need it most.
Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue is more than just a service — it’s a promise. A promise to protect your home, your time, and your peace of mind for
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Need urgent help or want to schedule a visit? Call our rescue team today — and let the water flow freely again.
Why Choose Us For Blocked Drains Maidstone
When it comes to blocked drains, speed and reliability matter. At Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue, we go beyond the quick fix — we deliver expert solutions with local care and professionalism.
Here’s why homeowners and businesses across Maidstone trust us:
Fast, Same-Day Response
Blocked drain? No problem. We respond quickly — often the same day — to get your system back to normal without delay.
Local & Trusted
We’re based right here in Maidstone. No call centres. No middlemen. Just friendly local engineers who know the area and care about the community.
24/7 Emergency Service
Drain emergencies can happen anytime — day or night. That’s why we’re on call 24/7 to handle urgent blockages, even on weekends and holidays.
Upfront, Honest Pricing
No hidden fees. No surprise charges. We believe in fair, transparent pricing with free quotes and clear communication.
Modern Equipment, Proven Results
From CCTV drain surveys to high-pressure jetting, we use the latest tools to solve problems quickly and thoroughly.
Clean, Respectful Service
We treat your home or business like our own — cleaning up after every job and always respecting your space.
FAQ
What causes drains to become blocked in the first place?
Drain blockages are a common household issue, and they rarely happen without a cause. In most cases, the problem starts with what goes down the drain. In kitchens, cooking grease, oils, and food scraps are the main culprits. These substances may go down as liquid or small bits, but over time they solidify and build up along the pipe walls, creating a sticky barrier that collects more debris.
In bathrooms, hair, soap scum, and toothpaste are the usual suspects. Hair especially can form dense clumps that tangle with soap and slow drainage until it eventually stops. Toilets are another trouble spot. Flushing items like wet wipes, cotton balls, sanitary products, or too much toilet paper can lead to serious blockages further down the system.
Outside the home, nature plays a role too. Tree roots are notorious for breaking into underground pipes, especially in older properties where clay piping is still common. Once inside, the roots expand and trap debris flowing through the pipe, leading to major blockages.
Regular maintenance, such as using drain strainers, avoiding pouring fats down the sink, and scheduling professional inspections, can help prevent these blockages before they become emergencies. Prevention really is the best solution when it comes to drain health.
How can I tell if I have a blocked drain?
Blocked drains don’t always show themselves immediately, but there are clear signs to watch for. One of the first indicators is water draining more slowly than usual. If your sink, bath, or shower is taking longer to empty, a blockage may be forming. Gurgling sounds coming from plugholes, especially after flushing the toilet or running water elsewhere in the house, are another red flag. This happens when trapped air in the pipes is forced through the water by the blockage.
Bad smells are also a major clue. A foul, sewage-like odour near your drains usually means organic material is stuck somewhere and starting to decompose. If multiple fixtures are affected — for example, if your toilet backs up when you use the washing machine — this could point to a more serious blockage in the main drain line.
Sometimes the signs are more dramatic. Water backing up out of the sink or toilet, outdoor drains overflowing, or damp patches around manholes are emergencies. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional drain service right away. Early action can prevent bigger damage and more expensive repairs.
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?
Chemical drain cleaners might seem like a quick and easy solution to a blocked sink or shower, but they come with several risks — for your plumbing, your health, and the environment.
Most chemical drain cleaners work by producing a strong reaction, often involving heat or caustic substances, to break down blockages. However, these chemicals can also damage your pipes over time. Older metal or PVC piping can weaken or corrode from repeated exposure to harsh agents, leading to leaks or full pipe failure.
There are also safety risks. The fumes from these products can irritate the eyes, lungs, and skin. If mishandled or mixed with other substances (like bleach), they can produce dangerous chemical reactions. This is especially concerning in households with pets or children.
Beyond that, chemical cleaners are rarely a long-term fix. They might clear minor blockages, but they often leave behind residue or only partially dissolve the debris. In many cases, the blockage returns, and repeated use of chemicals only worsens the damage.
Environmentally, these products can be harmful. When washed into the sewage system, they can contaminate water supplies and negatively affect aquatic life.
A better approach? Try natural alternatives like a baking soda and vinegar mix or use a plunger or drain snake. If that doesn’t work, it’s best to call a professional. A trained drainage technician can use safe, effective tools like high-pressure water jetting to clear the blockage without harming your pipes — or the planet.
Can blocked drains cause health problems?
Yes — blocked drains aren’t just a plumbing issue. They can quickly become a health hazard, especially if left untreated. What starts as a minor inconvenience (like a slow drain or unpleasant smell) can escalate into a breeding ground for bacteria, mould, and even pests.
Let’s break it down.
When a drain is blocked, wastewater has nowhere to go. It sits in the pipes or worse — backs up into sinks, showers, or even the garden. This stagnant water is often full of contaminants like bacteria, viruses, and parasites. These microorganisms thrive in warm, damp conditions and can cause infections, stomach illnesses, and respiratory problems, particularly in children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system.
One common risk is mould growth. Excess moisture around blocked drains (especially in bathrooms or under sinks) creates the perfect environment for mould spores to multiply. Long-term exposure to mould can cause:
Wheezing or breathing difficulties
Coughing or nasal congestion
Skin irritation or allergic reactions
Worsened asthma symptoms
Another issue? Foul odours. The smell of a blocked drain isn’t just unpleasant — it’s often caused by a buildup of decaying organic matter and harmful gases like hydrogen sulphide (think rotten eggs). In high concentrations, these gases can cause headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
In outdoor settings, blocked drains can lead to flooding, attracting insects like mosquitoes and flies, which carry disease. Rats are also known to exploit damaged or backed-up drains to enter properties.
So yes, blocked drains can absolutely lead to serious health concerns if ignored.
The good news? Regular inspections, prompt unblocking, and good drain hygiene can prevent most issues. If you notice foul smells, slow drainage, or unusual gurgling sounds, don’t wait — it’s better to call a professional and stay ahead of any risks.
Will my garden or driveway need to be dug up to fix a blockage?
Not necessarily — and in many cases, no digging is needed at all.
Gone are the days when a blocked or damaged drain automatically meant excavators in your garden or a ripped-up driveway. Thanks to modern technology, many drainage problems can now be resolved using “no-dig” or trenchless solutions. These are designed to fix the issue from the inside of the pipe — without disturbing the surface above.
Here’s how it works:
When a drain is blocked, the first step is usually a CCTV drain survey. This inspection tells us exactly what’s causing the problem — and where it’s located. If the issue is a typical blockage caused by grease, wipes, or debris, it can often be cleared using high-pressure water jetting or mechanical tools — all from the nearest access point (like a manhole or external drain cover). No digging required.
But what if the pipe is damaged?
In cases of cracked, collapsed, or root-invaded pipes, there are still trenchless repair options, such as:
Drain lining (also called “relining”): A resin-coated liner is inserted into the pipe and inflated to create a new pipe within the old one.
Patch repairs: A smaller version of drain lining, perfect for sealing localised damage like cracks or holes.
These methods are clean, quick, and effective — often completed within a single day.
That said, there are rare situations where excavation might be necessary. For example:
If the pipe has fully collapsed
If the drain isn’t accessible through existing access points
If a complete replacement is more cost-effective long term
Even then, a professional team like ours at Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue uses targeted digging to minimize disruption.
So, while the thought of your garden being dug up can be stressful — rest assured, we do everything possible to keep your property intact and your drains flowing smoothly.
How often should drains be cleaned or inspected?
It’s a question many homeowners don’t think about — until they’re ankle-deep in dirty water from a backed-up sink. The truth is, regular drain cleaning and inspections are essential for keeping your plumbing system healthy and avoiding unexpected (and costly) blockages.
So how often should you do it?
For the average household, we recommend professional drain cleaning once a year. This helps remove buildup of grease, soap, hair, food particles, and other debris before they cause a full blockage. If your household is large or your system is older, cleaning every 6 to 9 months might be a smarter bet.
If you’re in a commercial property — especially in the food, hospitality, or healthcare sector — more frequent servicing is essential. Restaurants and cafes, for instance, should clean their drains every 1–3 months due to heavy grease and food waste.
But what about inspections?
A CCTV drain inspection isn’t needed yearly for everyone, but it’s smart to get one:
If you’re buying a new property
After a major blockage
If you experience repeated slow drains or foul smells
If you live in an older property with ageing pipes
After a major storm or flood
These inspections use high-tech cameras to check the inside of your pipes without any digging — spotting cracks, collapses, tree root intrusion, or buildup that can’t be seen from the surface.
Think of it like getting a check-up for your plumbing system. It catches small issues before they turn into big, expensive ones.
And between professional cleanings? Use filters or traps in sinks and showers. Don’t pour fat down the drain. Avoid flushing anything but toilet paper. These small habits make a big difference in keeping your pipes flowing smoothly all year round.
What’s the difference between high-pressure water jetting and rodding?
Both high-pressure water jetting and manual rodding are common methods used to clear blocked drains. They’re effective, but they work very differently — and each has its own strengths.
Let’s start with manual drain rodding.
This is the more traditional method. It involves using a set of flexible rods (usually made of metal or tough plastic) that are screwed together and pushed into the drain manually. The goal is to physically break up or push through the blockage — think grease, food waste, toilet paper, or other clumps of debris.
It’s a simple, cost-effective solution for smaller blockages, especially if the problem is close to the drain entrance or inside a trap. Rodding is fast and doesn’t require electricity or fancy machinery. But it does have limitations. For example:
It might not reach deeper into the system
It can’t remove hardened grease or limescale buildup
It may struggle with tree roots or stubborn obstructions
That’s where high-pressure water jetting comes in.
This method uses a powerful jet of water — often at pressures up to 4000 PSI — delivered through a specialized hose and nozzle. The water blasts away blockages, cleans the entire diameter of the pipe, and flushes debris out of the system.
It’s extremely effective for:
Grease and fat buildup in kitchen drains
Tree root intrusion
Heavy silt or scale deposits
Recurrent or deep pipe blockages
Jetting is also non-invasive and more environmentally friendly, since it doesn’t use chemicals. However, it requires specialist equipment and trained technicians — which makes it slightly more expensive than rodding.
In summary:
Rodding = Good for shallow, simple blockages
Jetting = Best for deep, stubborn, or recurring problems
A professional drain cleaner will often inspect the situation first and choose the best tool for the job — sometimes even using both together.
Do I need a CCTV drain survey if I have a recurring blockage?
Short answer? Yes — you probably do.
If your drains keep blocking again and again, even after being cleared, it’s a strong sign that something deeper is wrong within your drainage system. A one-off clog from grease or hair is normal. But if it happens regularly? That’s not just bad luck — that’s a red flag. And a CCTV drain survey can show you exactly what’s going on.
So, what is a CCTV drain survey?
It’s a modern, non-invasive method where a small waterproof camera is inserted into your drains. The camera travels through your pipes, sending back real-time video footage to a monitor above ground. It records everything: cracks, roots, build-up, collapsed sections, poor pipe joints — you name it.
Think of it like an X-ray for your drains.
Now, why is this important for recurring blockages?
Because blockages that come back time and again usually have a hidden cause:
Tree root intrusion
Misaligned or broken pipes
Collapsed sections of drain
Grease and fat build-up in rough pipework
Poor DIY plumbing or leftover construction debris
If you only treat the symptoms — clearing the blockage each time — you’re not solving the actual problem. It’s like mopping up water without fixing the leaking tap.
A CCTV drain survey gives you a full diagnosis, so you can fix the real issue once and for all. And here’s the good news: it’s quick, clean, and affordable. Most surveys can be completed in under an hour, and you’ll receive a video report and professional recommendation.
In places like Maidstone and Kent, where older drainage systems are common, a CCTV survey is often the smartest step when blockages won’t stay gone.
Can tree roots really damage my drains?
Absolutely. In fact, tree roots are one of the most common causes of major drainage issues, especially in older properties. And the tricky part? You may not even know it’s happening — until your drains are completely blocked or start backing up.
Let’s break it down.
Tree roots are naturally drawn to moisture and nutrients. And underground drain pipes? They’re like a buffet. Even the tiniest crack or loose joint in your pipework can release vapor or small amounts of water into the surrounding soil. That’s enough to attract nearby roots.
Once they find a way in, they’ll grow inside the pipe — slowly but steadily. Over time, the roots thicken and form a tangled mass. This not only causes a blockage but can also crack, split, or collapse the pipe entirely.
Common signs of root damage include:
Frequent or recurring blockages
Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains
Slow drainage across multiple fixtures
Foul smells, especially outside or in basements
Visible wet patches or sinkholes in your garden
If left untreated, root intrusion can lead to:
Major sewer backups
Flooding
Expensive pipe replacement
Structural damage to your property
So what can you do?
The safest and most effective way to detect tree root damage is with a CCTV drain survey. A professional will inspect the inside of your pipes with a camera and confirm whether roots are the cause. From there, solutions include:
Root cutting using specialized tools
High-pressure water jetting to clear blockages
Pipe lining or patching to seal cracks without digging
Excavation and pipe replacement (only in severe cases)
If you live in a leafy area of Kent or Maidstone, proactive inspections every few years can prevent root-related surprises. Trees are beautiful — but your drains should flow freely, not feed the forest underground.
Are drain blockages covered by home insurance?
It depends — and that’s the honest answer.
In many cases, drain blockages and damage are not automatically covered by standard home insurance policies, but there are exceptions depending on your insurer, your policy, and the specific cause of the problem.
Let’s break it down:
Most standard buildings insurance policies will only cover drainage problems if they result from sudden and unexpected damage, such as:
Subsidence or ground movement
Tree root intrusion causing pipe breakage
Accidental damage from construction work
Flooding or storm-related impact
However, if the blockage is due to wear and tear, poor maintenance, or misuse (like flushing wipes or pouring grease down the sink), most insurers will consider that the homeowner’s responsibility and won’t pay out. Routine unblocking, cleaning, or issues due to age and deterioration are usually excluded unless you’ve purchased an additional home emergency cover.
That’s where specialist drainage insurance or a home emergency policy add-on can help. These often cover:
Blocked drains
Call-out charges
Emergency repairs
Temporary fixes to stop damage
But it’s vital to read the small print. Some policies cover internal drainage only (like your bathroom pipes), while others include external drains leading to the sewer. Some will only pay if the home is rendered uninhabitable or access to essential rooms is blocked.
Our advice?
Check your current policy documents
Call your insurer and ask about specific coverage for drains
Consider adding drain cover or home emergency protection if you don’t already have it
At Maidstone Blocked Drain Rescue, we’ve worked with many customers and insurers. If you suspect an insurance claim is possible, we’re happy to provide detailed reports, photos, and evidence to help support your claim.
Bottom line: Insurance might cover your blocked drain — but only if it’s the right kind of blockage for the right kind of policy.