Struggling with constant drain issues and ready to defer to a professional? The next decision is a big one: who to call to get the best blocked drain services in Melbourne. There are usually a few contenders in the local area, but it’s hard to know if they are really up to the job.
Instead of making a choice on a whim, you can go through our guide, step by step, to create a shortlist for drain repairs. Spoiler: companies promising quick fixes and ultra low prices might not be the best option!
Here’s what you need to do to choose the best drain cleaning specialists.
1. Check for expertise and experience
Certain plumbers talk a big game without any experience to back it up. This is all too common today, where it’s easy to mock up an online ad or landing page that looks convincing. The key is digging deeper to see if they can actually follow through.
Ideally, you want to work with a drain specialist that can prove they’ve been working for x number of years and has licences, certifications etc. to complete high-quality work.
We often have to make choices on limited information, but you can make things easier by ‘sleuthing’ on the internet and contacting providers directly.
A few quick checks:
- Ask how long they’ve been offering drain cleaning services in Melbourne.
- Check if they are better at residential or commercial jobs (or both).
- Ask if they’ve completed any repairs similar to yours.
- See if they know about advanced tools like hydro jetting and pipe relining.
2. Read online reviews and social comments
A solid reputation and strong word of mouth feedback is a good starting point. Make a beeline for online reviews and local directories, like Oneflare and HiPages, to see what past customers are saying.
Keep an eye out for:
- Consistent 4 or 5-star reviews – Nobody is perfect, and it can even look a little suspect if a company only has high ratings. Look for a long trail of positive feedback dating back years, not weeks.
- Mentions of quality and consistency – Plumbers turning up on time, doing excellent work, and communicating clearly are very good signs.
- Details about response times – Do they respond quickly to emergency callouts, and within an acceptable time for most queries?
- Red flags – Note down any repeated complaints about no-shows or poor after service.
Another good way to find feedback is by visiting social media sites and searching for the company name to see if there are any recent posts from customers.
Tip: Be wary of companies that only have vague or even AI-generated reviews. Genuine customers usually mention specific jobs and praise staff members.
3. Look for proper training and certification
Referring back to the first point, anyone can claim to be an expert. The best drain cleaning pros will be willing and eager to show real licences and certifications before any work begins.
A qualified plumber in Melbourne should:
- Hold valid plumbing and draining licences in Victoria
- Be insured for both property damage and public liability
- Follow Australian plumbing and drainage standards (AS/NZS 3500)
- Trained to use equipment like water jets and CCTV cameras
Don’t be shy in quizzing companies about these — their responses can be used as evidence when deciding who to work with.
4. Check that they offer a full range of drain services
If a company just offers basic pipe cleaning, that’s a red flag. The best drain specialist typically has a pretty comprehensive service list, covering things like pipe relining and full-scale sewer replacements. This is important as major issues can be found during inspections, and you might be left with a provider unable to handle it.
Here’s what you can do to find out if they’re a master of all trades, not just one:
- Ask the drain cleaning specialist to provide a full list of drains services
- Double-check it against any marketing or advertising online (or on a website)
- Read online reviews and look for comments about different services
- Make a list based on the breadth and quality of drain services
Now you’ll have more details to make a smart decision.
5. Make sure they’re clear about pricing
The best drain cleaners are always upfront and transparent. They provide clients with a detailed service and payment proposal before they start the job. Most importantly, they don’t try to obfuscate hidden fees or try to include add-ons at a later date to inflate the price.
Transparency builds trust. You want to be able to pay for your drain repairs without worrying about unexpected costs the day before everything gets underway.
Before you agree to anything, you should:
- Ask for a written estimate
- Confirm whether there are any call-out fees
- Make sure any extra costs (like excavation) are clearly explained.
6. Make sure they’re available when you need them
Blocked drains can happen suddenly and without warning. It’s not something you can schedule at your convenience. That’s why it’s useful to get an idea of a company’s emergency support services. Will they come and sort things out or offer advice round-the-cock?
Fast response times and inspections can make all the difference when dealing with sewage backups and burst pipes.
When comparing providers, ask about:
- Average response times for emergencies
- Weekend and after-hours availability
- Coverage area cross Melbourne and nearby suburbs
7. Check they use modern tools and techniques
Finally, you don’t want your specialist turning up with just a bucket and plunger. Old, outdated fixes rarely last. The best drain repair teams can call on an arsenal of advanced diagnostic and cleaning tools to get the job done.
Modern equipment that’ll make the difference in 2025 and beyond, include:
- CCTV drain cameras that inspect pipe interiors and pinpoint damage
- High pressure jets that can wash away the most stubborn dirt and debris
- Pipe locators and trenchless relining systems for major repairs without digging
Even the most experienced plumbers need excellent tools, so make sure to ask what they can use when inquiring about services.
Clearing blocked drains in Melbourne with Drain Fixers
With these seven simple steps, you can find a professional drain cleaning and repair company that’ll solve your plumbing woes and provide a fix (or replacement) that lasts for decades. Remember, low prices are good, but make sure they can provide quality workmanship, too, by checking their credentials and reading reviews.
That’s what’s made Drain Fixers one of the leading pipe relining service providers in Melbourne. Why choose us? We are honest and transparent, with high quality work at an affordable price, that stands the test of time. You can count us to get the job done right, the first time.
Contact us today to book your inspection or drain cleaning service.