When a homeowner on Railway Parade South, Chadstone, VIC 3148, called regarding a sewer overflowing via the Overflow Relief Gully (ORG), they knew the problem was recurring. Since the property lacked proper sewer inspection points, our plumber had to employ systematic diagnostic and compliance procedures to get to the root cause of the persistent issue.
The Diagnosis: Blockage & Compliance Challenges
The initial test—flushing toilets both upstream and downstream of the ORG—confirmed the entire main sewer drain was blocked, not just the ORG itself. Gerry agreed to a CCTV drain camera inspection after clearing the blockage, as he was determined to solve the recurring problem.
- Clearing the Blockage: The plumber used the powerful hydro pressure jet machine to clear the blockage via the external 100mm I.O. (Inspection Opening) elbow near the upstream toilet. Jetting for 1.5 hours, the equipment effectively cleared the blockage.
- Pinpointing the Defect: The plumber then used the CCTV camera, with Gerry watching, to inspect the full length of the 60-year-old terracotta sewer drain.
The Discovery: Tree Root Intrusion and Missing Compliance
About six metres from the corner of the property, the camera showed the problem: tree roots intruding through the top of the pipe via an old inspection opening cap. The mortar holding the cap had perished over the years, creating a direct entry point for the roots and causing frequent blockages.
Gerry preferred a permanent solution over temporary root cutting. The plumber used a NaviTrack Scout Locator to pinpoint the location of the required repair: an easy-access, open grass area, 1.2 metres deep.
The Solution: Permitting, Repair, and Compliance Upgrade
To perform a compliant repair, several steps were necessary:
- Permit Acquisition: The plumber immediately obtained a P.I.C. (Plumbing Industry Commission) number from South East Water (SEW), as the job was urgent and involved altering below-ground sewerage.
- Inspection Booking: Using the permit number, the plumber booked an underground drainage inspection through the B.P.C. (Building and Plumbing Commission) for the next day.
- Sectional Repair & Upgrade: The team completed the drain repair, replacing the damaged terracotta section. Crucially, they installed an additional 100mm I.O. to surface level at the repair spot. This upgrade ensures easy access for future maintenance, a significant improvement for the 60-year-old property.
Your Choice Plumbers – Home Plumbing Experts – Ensures Long-Term Reliability
This sectional repair and compliance upgrade in Chadstone, VIC 3148, highlights our commitment to solving persistent problems and ensuring every job meets regulatory standards. We proudly service Chadstone and surrounding suburbs, including Malvern East, Mount Waverley, and Glen Waverley.
For compliant sectional drain repair and expert blocked drain services in Chadstone, contact Your Choice Plumbers Chadstone – Home Plumbing Experts today for a fast and reliable service you can trust. Call us now on 1300 852 779.