Blocked Drains
Common Causes of Blocked Drains in Farnham
Farnham, with its combination of period cottages, listed buildings and newer residential developments, has a unique mix of drainage challenges. Our blocked drain services in Farnham frequently address issues stemming from both heritage infrastructure and modern misuse. Key causes include:
- Clay and Pitch Fibre Pipes: Many older Farnham homes, especially around Castle Street, Upper Hale and The Bourne, still use legacy materials like clay or pitch fibre pipes, which are highly prone to deformation, cracking and collapse.
- Tree Root Invasion: Areas such as Moor Park and Wrecclesham, known for their mature trees and landscaped gardens, often experience root ingress into drainage joints, causing blockages and eventual structural damage.
- Improper Waste Disposal: Items such as wet wipes, cotton buds, nappies, and even food scraps are commonly flushed or poured down drains, leading to frequent clogs, particularly in households with young children or multiple occupants.
- Surface Water Flooding: Farnham’s undulating terrain and narrow streets can cause rainwater run-off to overload drainage systems during storms, especially in low-lying areas like East Street and Badshot Lea.
- Grease & Fat Build-Up: In residential kitchens and food premises around Farnham town centre, grease solidifies in the pipes and forms hard fatbergs that can restrict or completely block water flow.
Recognising these local causes is the first step in preventing a disruptive and expensive drainage emergency.
How to Prevent Blocked Drains in Farnham
With proactive maintenance, Farnham property owners can significantly reduce the risk of blocked drains. Here are some practical tips tailored to homes and businesses across the town:
- Install Sink Strainers and Drain Guards: Especially in heritage properties with narrow pipework, these catch debris like food scraps, hair and leaves before they enter the system.
- Avoid Pouring Fats and Oils: Instead of tipping grease down the sink, use a separate container for disposal. Farnham’s cold winters can solidify fats quickly, increasing the risk of pipe obstructions.
- Flush Only the 3Ps: Paper, pee and poo. Anything else — including wipes labelled as ‘flushable’ — can snag in bends and junctions, creating stubborn blockages.
- Routine Jetting Services: Our high-pressure jetting services are ideal for preventative maintenance, especially in high-use areas like student accommodation near the university or high-turnover rental homes.
- Annual CCTV Surveys: Particularly useful in older areas like The Chantrys or Dippenhall, these surveys detect cracks, root ingress, or early signs of collapse before they escalate.
How a CCTV Drain Survey Can Help in Farnham
A CCTV drain survey is an essential diagnostic tool, especially in Farnham’s mixed housing stock. Whether you're managing a period property in Rowledge or a new build in North Farnham, this non-invasive method gives a full internal view of your drainage system.
- Identify Structural Weaknesses: Legacy materials in many older Farnham homes are fragile and prone to cracking. Our surveys pick up early-stage deterioration.
- Pinpoint Tree Root Intrusion: Instead of guessing, our cameras reveal exactly where roots are penetrating joints and how severe the obstruction is.
- Homebuyer Protection: Moving to Farnham? A pre-purchase CCTV drain survey ensures your dream home doesn’t come with hidden drainage issues.
- Back Up Insurance Claims: If you’ve had property damage or flooding due to blocked drains, our professional survey reports and footage provide strong documentation for insurers.
- Environmentally Friendly: No digging. No mess. Just fast and accurate diagnostics that protect both your home and the environment.
What to Do in a Drain Emergency in Farnham
Drain emergencies in Farnham can strike without warning. If you notice overflowing gullies, foul smells, or backed-up toilets, follow these steps immediately:
- Stop Using All Water Fixtures: Cease flushing toilets, running taps, or using dishwashers/washing machines to prevent worsening the backup.
- Try Safe DIY Methods: Use a plunger or drain rod for minor, localised blockages – but only if you feel confident and safe.
- Don’t Use Chemical Cleaners: These often cause pipe corrosion, especially in older systems common around Central Farnham and Compton Way.
- Document the Incident: Take photos of flooding, overflow or property damage. This helps with insurance claims or landlord communications.
- Call the Experts: Contact Alton Facility Services on 01420 561661 for a rapid response anywhere in Farnham, including Lower Bourne, Heath End and Runfold.
We’re available 24/7 and equipped with high-pressure jetting units, CCTV kits, and trenchless repair technology to get your property back to normal fast.
Blocked Drain FAQs – Farnham
1. What causes most drain blockages in Farnham?
Tree roots, grease, and non-flushables are leading causes, particularly in homes with older clay or pitch fibre pipes.
2. Is high-pressure jetting safe for old pipes?
Yes – when used professionally, jetting clears blockages safely and effectively, even in legacy systems.
3. Can you unblock drains without digging?
Absolutely. We use trenchless techniques like CCTV inspection and pipe relining for minimal disruption.
4. How fast can you respond in Farnham?
We offer same-day and emergency callouts across all Farnham postcodes. Call 01420 561661.
5. Do you provide services to landlords or commercial clients?
Yes – we work with letting agents, schools, and businesses across Farnham to offer scheduled maintenance and emergency support.
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