Tree Roots Blocking Drain
Tree roots have grown into the underground drain pipes, causing blockages and slow drainage.
What Is Causing This?
- 1Roots seeking moisture through joints or cracks in clay pipes
- 2Old Victorian or Edwardian drainage with loose pipe joints
- 3Trees planted too close to the drain run
How Urgent Is This?
This should be fixed in the coming weeks. Leaving it may allow the problem to worsen and cost more to repair.
What Needs to Be Done
A drainage specialist will jet the pipe to cut through the roots, CCTV survey the extent of damage, and repair or reline the pipe to prevent regrowth. In severe cases, the pipe section needs replacing.
How Much Will It Cost?
National average estimate
Labour: £283 – £913 | Materials: £75 – £318
Enter your postcode for a local price estimate
Prices are estimates based on typical UK rates. Actual costs depend on the specific issue, accessibility, and your location. All quotes from tradespeople on Tradesfolk are completely free.
Find a Drainage Specialist
Enter your postcode above to find local drainage specialists, or browse all drainage specialists.
Find a Drainage SpecialistWant a More Accurate Diagnosis?
Upload a photo of the problem and our AI tool will give you a detailed diagnosis, estimated cost, and connect you with local tradespeople.
Try Snap and FixStill Not Sure? Ask a Tradesperson
Post your question and get free advice from tradespeople who deal with this every day.
Ask a QuestionHow to Prevent This
Avoid planting trees near drain runs. Have an annual CCTV check if you have mature trees near drains. Consider root barriers when planting new trees.
Related Problems
An external drain or manhole cover with standing water, overflowing, or draining very slowly.
An underground drain pipe that has broken, collapsed, or caved in, causing persistent blockages or sinkholes.
Cracks in the house or signs of subsidence linked to tree roots growing under or near the foundations.
Other Drainage Specialist Problems
An external drain or manhole cover with standing water, overflowing, or draining very slowly.
A strong sewage or rotten-egg smell around the outside of the property, particularly near drains or manholes.
Sewage or waste water spilling out of a drain, manhole, or inspection chamber, especially during heavy rain.
Bath or shower water taking a long time to drain away, sometimes backing up around the plughole.