Give the quote a clear starting point
A quote is most useful when it describes the same problem you need solved. Tell us where water is backing up, whether more than one fixture is affected and whether there is an outside overflow. Start with the blocked drains guide if you need help organising those details.
Include the location, previous clearing and known access points. A recurring issue may need a different discussion from a first blockage with no earlier history.
Compare the items included
| Item | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Attendance | What is included in the visit and are timing or travel charges separate? |
| Clearing | Which work is included and how is extra work authorised? |
| Access | What if the drain cannot be reached through an existing access point? |
| Inspection | Is a camera investigation included or quoted separately? |
| Tax and follow-up | Does the total include GST, and what happens if the blockage returns? |
Separate clearing from diagnosis
Clearing aims to restore flow. Investigation asks why the problem happened and whether the pipe needs further work. We use water blasting and vacuum equipment for clearing, with CCTV and GPS location for investigations.
Compare the scope of a drain camera inspection before assuming it is included in every clearing price. If damage is identified, ask for a separate explanation of the repair options.
Make like-for-like comparisons
One price may include only attendance and clearing while another includes investigation or more difficult access. Put the written scopes side by side and identify what each includes before comparing the totals.
For example, a readily accessible outside drain and a line that needs excavation to reach it involve different preparation. Describe the access honestly, including gates, parked vehicles and hard surfaces.
Agree how the job can change
Ask what happens if the initial work reveals a damaged or inaccessible pipe. Agree how additional work will be explained and authorised, and keep the final scope with any inspection findings.
For a Christchurch property, our drain unblocking service is the place to start an enquiry. Send the address, symptoms and any earlier work so we can discuss your situation.
Request a drain unblocking quote
Describe the symptoms and access so the clearing quote starts with the right information.
Request a drain unblocking quoteCall 0800 405 632