Blocked Drain Specialists in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch
Fast, Affordable Drain Unblocking in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch
Suffering with blocked drains? Rapid Drains offer a 24/7 emergency drainage service covering the South of England.
Specialists in blocked drains clearance, drain unblocking & CCTV drain surveys. Fast response. No call out fees.
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Same Day Blocked Drain Clearance Across Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch
Blocked drains can quickly become a major hassle — from slow-draining sinks and foul odours to overflowing toilets and garden flooding. At Rapid Drains, we provide expert drain unblocking services across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch, with fast response times and no call-out fees. Whether you’re a homeowner or business, our fully equipped local engineers deliver same-day solutions that get your drainage flowing again — quickly, cleanly, and affordably.

24/7 Drain Unblocking in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch – 365 Days a Year
Drain emergencies don’t wait — and neither do we. Whether it’s a blocked toilet at home or a backed-up drain at your business, Rapid Drains operates around the clock across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch. Our local engineers are on call 24/7, every day of the year, ready to respond fast with no call-out fees.
📞 Call us now on 0330 333 6199 or contact us here and one of our drainage specialists will be in touch.

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24/7 Call Out Service
Rapid Drains work round the clock all year to fix your emergencies. 24 hours a day 7 days a week, and we can usually be with you within the hour.
Drainage Advice
Rapid Drains employs drainage experts who are on hand to offer the best advice and assistance. We are always happy to help so get in touch!
Upfront Costs
Rapid Drains will fix any domestic or commercial drainage problem at competitve rates and prices. No call out fees!


Specialist Blocked Drains Services
At Rapid Drains, we provide a full range of drainage services to keep your system running smoothly across Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch. Here’s what we can do for you:
- Emergency Drain Unblocking: Got a serious blockage? Our 24/7 emergency service gets things moving fast, day or night.
- High-Pressure Water Jetting: We use powerful water jetting equipment to clear stubborn blockages and built-up debris.
- CCTV Drain Surveys: Not sure what’s causing the issue? Our CCTV drain surveys pinpoint problems without any digging.
- Homebuyer Drain Surveys: Buying a home? Our pre-purchase surveys help you avoid unexpected drainage costs.
- Drain Lining: Our no-dig drain lining restores damaged pipes without excavation.
- Drain Repairs: We handle all types of drain repairs, from collapsed pipes to root damage and cracked drains.
- Septic Tank Emptying: Need reliable waste removal? Our septic tank emptying service is fast, fully licensed, and environmentally compliant.
For full details on all services, visit our services page.

Drain Unblocking
CCTV Drain Surveys
Home Buyers Drain Survey
Common Causes of Blocked Drains In Your Area
Fat and Grease Buildup
One of the most common causes of blocked drains is the buildup of fat, oil, and grease. When these substances are poured down the sink, they harden and stick to pipe walls, eventually causing blockages. Learn how to prevent fat and grease blockages.
Wet Wipes and Sanitary Products
Wet wipes, sanitary products, and other non-biodegradable items don’t break down in water, making them major culprits in clogging pipes. Flushing these items can lead to significant blockages in drains and sewer systems. Read more about the impact of flushing wipes.
Structural Defects
Cracks, misaligned joints, and other structural defects in pipes can trap debris, leading to gradual blockages. Regular drain inspections can help identify and repair these issues before they escalate. Drainage maintenance tips to prevent costly repairs.
Hard Water Scale
In hard water areas, limescale buildup can gradually reduce pipe diameter, restricting water flow and increasing the risk of blockages. Descaling treatments can help to mitigate this issue. Explore solutions for hard water scale buildup.
Tree Roots
Tree roots naturally seek moisture and can infiltrate drainage systems, especially in older pipes, leading to severe blockages or even pipe damage. Learn how tree roots can impact your drains.
Common Causes Of Blocked Drains Bournemouth
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you cover areas near Bournemouth?
Who are my sewage suppliers in Bournemouth?
Most properties in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch are supplied by Wessex Water. You can also find your supplier here.
Is the hard water in Bournemouth contributing to my drain blockage?
Water in Bournemouth is generally Moderately hard, which can increase the risk of scale build-up and drain blockages.
Why do drains get blocked?
Accumulation of Debris: The buildup of debris is one of the primary causes of drain blockages. Over time, materials such as hair, soap scum, food particles, grease, and other solid substances can accumulate in drains and pipes, narrowing the passage for water flow.
Tree Root Intrusion: Tree roots can intrude into underground drain pipes in search of water and nutrients. As roots grow and spread, they can exert pressure on the pipes, causing cracks or blockages. Roots can also enter through existing cracks or joints and create a tangled mass that obstructs the flow of water.
Fat, Oil, and Grease (FOG): Pouring fat, oil, and grease down the drain is a common but detrimental practice. When FOG substances cool down, they solidify and adhere to the inner walls of the drain pipes, eventually leading to blockages. FOG can also trap other debris, exacerbating the problem.
Foreign Objects: Accidentally or intentionally flushing foreign objects down the toilet or putting them down the drain can result in blockages. Items like sanitary products, diapers, wet wipes, cotton balls, paper towels, and small toys can get stuck in the pipes, impeding water flow.
Structural Damage: Cracked or collapsed pipes due to age, ground movement, or external factors can lead to drain blockages. The damaged areas can create obstructions or provide spaces for debris and roots to accumulate.
Incorrect Installation or Design: Poorly installed or improperly designed drainage systems can contribute to blockages. Inadequate slope or incorrect pipe sizing can impede the proper flow of wastewater, causing backups and blockages.
Extreme Weather Conditions: Heavy rainfall, storms, or flooding can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to blockages. Excessive water volume, debris carried by the water, or inundation of the sewer system can cause backups and blockages.
Regular maintenance and adopting good practices can help prevent drain blockages. This includes avoiding pouring FOG down the drain, using drain guards to catch debris, regular cleaning, and being mindful of what is flushed or poured down the drains.
How do professionals unblock drains?
Chemical Drain Cleaners: In some cases, professionals may use chemical drain cleaners to dissolve or break down certain types of blockages. These cleaners contain chemicals that can effectively dissolve or disintegrate organic matter, hair, grease, or other substances causing the blockage. However, chemical drain cleaners should be used with caution and only by trained professionals to avoid damage to pipes or harm to individuals.
Drain Snakes or Augers: A drain snake or auger is a long, flexible metal cable with a coil or hook at the end. It is inserted into the drain or pipe, and as it is pushed further, the coil or hook helps break up or retrieve the blockage. Drain snakes can be manually operated or powered by a motor for more challenging blockages.
Drain Rods: Drain rods are long, sturdy rods that can be attached together to create a longer length. They are inserted into the drain or sewer line and manipulated to break up or dislodge the blockage. Drain rods may be used with attachments such as a plunger or corkscrew end to assist in clearing the obstruction.
CCTV Drain Inspection: Before attempting any unblocking method, professionals often perform a CCTV drain survey to assess the cause and location of the blockage. This involves inserting a small camera attached to a flexible cable into the drain to visually inspect the interior and identify the nature of the blockage. This information helps determine the most suitable method for unblocking the drain.
It's important to note that severe or persistent blockages may require more extensive measures, such as excavation or pipe replacement. Professional drain specialists have the expertise and equipment to assess the situation and employ the appropriate techniques to clear the blockage effectively.
Should I get a CCTV drain survey?
Suspected Drainage Issues: If you are experiencing recurring drain blockages, slow drainage, unpleasant odors, or other signs of drainage problems, a CCTV drain survey can help identify the cause of the issue. It allows you to visually inspect the condition of your drains and pinpoint any blockages, cracks, or damage.
Property Purchase or Renovation: If you are buying a new property or planning a renovation, a CCTV drain survey can provide valuable information about the condition of the drainage system. It can reveal any existing problems or potential issues that may require repairs or maintenance in the future. This knowledge can help you make informed decisions and avoid unexpected expenses down the line.
Preventative Maintenance: Even if you're not currently experiencing any drainage issues, a periodic CCTV drain survey can be a proactive measure to detect early signs of damage or deterioration. It allows you to identify and address potential problems before they escalate, potentially saving you from more significant repair costs in the future.
Compliance and Insurance Requirements: In some cases, CCTV drain surveys may be required by local regulations or insurance companies. For example, if you're operating a commercial property or managing rental properties, regular drain inspections may be necessary to comply with certain standards or maintain insurance coverage. Be sure to check any applicable requirements in your area with one of our friendly representatives.
Is a blocked drain an emergency?
Severity of Blockage: If the blockage is minor and causes only a slight inconvenience, such as slow drainage in a sink or shower, it may not be considered an emergency. In such cases, you can attempt some DIY methods or schedule a professional to address the issue at a convenient time.
Impacted Essential Facilities: If the blocked drain affects essential facilities, such as a toilet or a kitchen sink, it can significantly disrupt daily activities and hygiene. In these situations, where access to necessary facilities is compromised, the blockage may be considered an emergency.
Wastewater Backup or Flooding: If the blockage causes wastewater to back up into sinks, showers, or toilets, or if it leads to flooding in or around your property, it should be treated as an emergency. Wastewater backups pose health risks and can cause significant property damage if not addressed promptly.
Multiple Blocked Drains: When multiple drains in your home or building are blocked simultaneously, especially if they are on different levels or in different areas, it could indicate a more extensive issue in the main sewer line. This may require immediate attention to prevent further damage and backups.
Unusual Odors or Sounds: If the blocked drain is accompanied by foul odours, gurgling sounds, or unusual noises, it could indicate a more serious problem in the drainage system. These signs may suggest that the blockage is impeding proper venting or causing pressure build-up, requiring immediate attention.
In emergency situations, it is advisable to contact a professional plumber or drainage specialist at Rapid Drains who can provide prompt assistance. They have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and clear the blockage effectively. Prompt action can help mitigate potential damage, health risks, and further inconveniences associated with a blocked drain.