Whether your loo’s gurgling like a pub singer at closing time or your garden smells like something died under it, there’s a good chance your drains are trying to tell you something. Across the South of England — from Bournemouth’s beaches to Salisbury’s spires — blocked drains are the unwelcome guests no one invited.
If you’re facing blocked drains in Dorset, Gillingham or Southampton, you’re not alone — and you’re not without options.
From historic homes with ageing clay pipes to new-builds overwhelming Victorian networks, every postcode has its own plumbing pitfalls.
In this guide, we’ll wade through the murky waters of domestic drainage, show you how to spot, fix, and prevent common issues, and explain why a CCTV drain survey might be your property’s best ally.
Blocked Drains in the South: The Usual Suspects
Blocked drains — or clogged drains if you prefer the plumber’s parlance — are often the result of misuse. Fat down the plughole, wipes masquerading as flushable, or roots nosing their way into ageing pipework.
According to Water UK, a whopping 93% of all sewer blockages are caused by unflushables. The UK Building Regulations (Part H) sets clear standards for wastewater disposal — and ignoring them tends to end with a mop and a stiff drink.
Blocked Drains in Bournemouth, Gillingham & Beyond: Local Advice
Drainage issues aren’t evenly spread. Some areas have more than their fair share of plumbing drama due to soil type, infrastructure or historic quirks.
Location | Typical Problems | Our Local Insight |
Bournemouth | Coastal runoff, sandy deposits, seasonal surges | Blocked drains in Bournemouth often spike in summer. |
Gillingham | High demand zones, older housing stock | Blocked drains in Gillingham? You’re not alone. We see it weekly. |
Southampton | Network stress, surface water flooding | Blocked drains in Southampton usually stem from overload. |
Salisbury | Period homes, outdated infrastructure | Blocked drains in Salisbury often involve collapsed or narrow clay pipes. |
Basingstoke | Urban growth, ageing mains | Blocked drains in Basingstoke? A tale of old meets new. |
Dorset | Tree roots, shifting soils | Blocked drains in Dorset need regular maintenance, particularly in winter. |
If your sink gurgles after every brew, or the garden smells like something’s brewing below, it’s time to consider a proper drain cleaning or a full pipe inspection.
Why Choose JD Drainage 24/7? Certified, Trusted, Local
We’re not here to dazzle you with jargon or upsell you nonsense. We’re local drainage engineers who know your area, your soil, and your pipes — and we know how to fix them fast.
- Fully certified with CHAS, SafeContractor, and Constructionline
- Trusted for fast-response blocked drain callouts in Gillingham, Salisbury and beyond
- We offer a CCTV drain survey in Southampton that comes with a full written report, high-definition footage, and plain-English advice
- Need a CCTV drain survey in Basingstoke for a property purchase? We’ll get it done next-day, no drama
- No call-out charges, no hidden extras — just clear prices and clean pipes
- Fully insured and compliant with WIS, UK Building Regulations (Part H) and your local authority standards
Whether you’ve got blocked drains in Bournemouth or need a full drainage assessment in Dorset, we deliver fast, affordable, regulation-compliant results. Our vans are stocked, our engineers are experienced, and we are ready to roll.
CCTV Drain Survey in Southampton, Basingstoke and Bournemouth
A CCTV drain survey is the gold standard of diagnostics — a detailed look inside your drainage system without digging or disruption. We use high-definition cameras to inspect the pipework, identify faults, and record everything for your peace of mind.
CCTV Drain Survey in Southampton: Fast, Non-Invasive Insight
Southampton’s citywide network often struggles under surface water and ageing connections. Our CCTV drain survey in Southampton can uncover root intrusion, structural defects, or improper connections before they become major headaches — perfect for homeowners, landlords or businesses applying for planning permission.
CCTV Drain Survey in Basingstoke: Ideal for Homebuyers and Renovators
In Basingstoke, new builds meet Victorian infrastructure — not always harmoniously. A CCTV drain survey in Basingstoke is recommended for homebuyers, those planning extensions, or anyone experiencing repeated blockages. We provide a full report with footage and clear next steps.
CCTV Drain Survey in Bournemouth: Stay Ahead of Coastal Problems
Blocked drains in Bournemouth are common, particularly in holiday lets or properties near the coast where sand and sediment play havoc with pipework. A CCTV drain survey in Bournemouth helps you stay ahead of unseen issues — and keep the summer lets trouble-free.
Our engineers are fully trained, and our surveys comply with Water Industry Specifications and local planning guidelines. Whether you’re sorting blocked drains in Salisbury or surveying a site in Gillingham, we’ve got the kit and the know-how.
Drain Unblocking vs CCTV Survey: What’s Right for You?
Here’s how to decide:
Situation | Service Needed |
Smells and gurgling sounds | Drain unblocking |
Repeated issues in one area | CCTV drain survey |
Buying or extending a property | CCTV survey with report |
Overflowing manholes after rain | Drain unblocking + inspection |
Historic property in Salisbury or Dorset | Survey first, then structural fix if needed |
Blocked drains in Salisbury or Basingstoke? Don’t rely on guesswork — get a clear picture and a clear pipe at the same time.
Maintenance Tips for Homeowners in Southern England
Blocked drains aren’t just a nuisance — they’re often avoidable. Regular maintenance saves money, prevents property damage, and keeps foul odours where they belong: down the pipe.
Preventing Blocked Drains in Bournemouth
Blocked drains in Bournemouth are especially common during the summer season, thanks to coastal sediment and heavy holiday let use. Clear outside gullies after storms, install silt traps if you’re near the beach, and never rinse sand or oils down your drains. Annual CCTV drain surveys in Bournemouth are strongly advised for landlords.
Avoiding Blocked Drains in Gillingham
With older housing stock and rising occupancy, blocked drains in Gillingham usually stem from internal build-up or misaligned joints. Use sink strainers, dispose of fat responsibly, and schedule a routine pipe inspection every two years. A professional drain cleaning in Gillingham is far more effective than supermarket chemicals.
Tips for Blocked Drains in Southampton
Blocked drains in Southampton often arise due to surface water ingress or overwhelmed shared mains. Regularly clear garden drains, report communal gully issues to the council, and consider a CCTV drain survey in Southampton if flooding or recurring blockages occur.
Keeping Blocked Drains in Salisbury at Bay
Blocked drains in Salisbury are frequently traced to collapsed or misfitted clay pipes. Avoid flushing modern wipes into older systems and inspect downpipes for root ingress. If you’re in a period property, book a CCTV drain survey in Salisbury to catch small faults before they become costly.
Drain Maintenance in Basingstoke
Basingstoke’s rapid expansion means old pipes meet new demands. Blocked drains in Basingstoke are often caused by junction faults or grease accumulation. Domestic properties should use enzyme-based treatments monthly and call in a CCTV drain survey in Basingstoke if foul smells or slow drainage persist.
General Advice for Dorset Households
Tree root intrusion, shifting soils, and ageing systems make blocked drains in Dorset a persistent issue. For rural homes especially, ensure regular jetting and CCTV inspections. According to the Environment Agency, preventative maintenance is the most effective strategy in root-prone areas.
Signs of a Blocked or Clogged Drain
Blocked drains don’t announce themselves politely — here’s what to look for:
- Foul smells from sinks or baths
- Gurgling after flushing
- Slow draining water
- Overflowing outside drains
- Repeated toilet blockages
CCTV surveys and timely drain cleaning can turn a brewing nightmare into a quick fix.
FAQs: Blocked Drains & CCTV Drain Surveys in Gillingham, Bournemouth, Southampton & More
I’m in Gillingham and my drains are slow — is it serious?
Yes. Blocked drains in Gillingham are typically caused by grease build-up or root intrusion. A quick pipe inspection can stop things getting worse.
What does a CCTV drain survey in Southampton involve?
We send a camera into your pipes to record footage, pinpoint issues, and provide a written report. Ideal for planning permission or recurring problems.
Can you attend same-day for blocked drains in Salisbury?
Yes. We offer rapid response in Salisbury and surrounding villages — especially if the smell’s kicked in.
What causes blocked drains in Bournemouth in summer?
Increased use of holiday homes and coastal sediment are common culprits. Preventative drain cleaning is recommended in May and September.
Do you offer CCTV drain surveys in Basingstoke for homebuyers?
Yes. A pre-purchase CCTV drain survey in Basingstoke is a smart move — especially with older stock and new-builds sharing mains infrastructure.
What’s the difference between a clogged drain and a blocked one?
Nothing — different words, same stink. We use specialist equipment to clear both quickly and cleanly.
Do I need permission to carry out drainage work?
Possibly. Anything connecting to the public sewer may need permission under Building Regulations Part H. We’ll advise you on the spot.
Final Thoughts: Trusted Solutions for Blocked Drains & CCTV Surveys in the South
If you’re reading this with a plunger in one hand and a torch in the other, it’s time to call someone who knows what they’re doing.
JD Drainage 24/7 are your local experts for blocked drains in Bournemouth, Gillingham, Salisbury and beyond, as well as trusted providers of CCTV drain surveys in Southampton, Basingstoke and the wider South.
Don’t sit on it. Sort it.
Get in touch today for drain unblocking, CCTV surveys, or friendly advice — before things bubble over.