BLOCKED DRAINS
Tree Roots in Drains Adelaide: Why Blockages Keep Returning
If your drain has been cleared before but keeps blocking again, tree roots may be growing into damaged or ageing underground pipes.
By Wakeline Plumbing Solutions | Adelaide, South Australia
IN SHORT
Tree roots are a major cause of sewer blockages in South Australia. SA Water reported that roots caused nearly two-thirds of sewer main blockages recorded in 2024–25. Roots can enter underground pipes through cracks or joins while searching for moisture. Clearing the blockage may restore flow temporarily, but if the underlying pipe issue remains, the blockage may return.
Why tree roots enter underground drains
Trees and shrubs naturally search for moisture. If an underground drain has a small crack, loose joint or damaged section, roots may find their way inside the pipe. Once inside, they can grow around waste and debris, gradually restricting the flow of water.
This is why a drain may seem fine for a while, then suddenly become slow, smell unpleasant or block completely.
Why this is especially relevant in Adelaide
Dry conditions can make underground pipes an attractive moisture source for roots. In August 2025, SA Water reported a significant increase in sewer blockages during prolonged dry weather, with tree roots responsible for 3,275 sewer main blockages in South Australia during 2024–25.
That does not mean every blocked drain is caused by tree roots. Fat, oil, grease, foreign objects and damaged or collapsed pipework can also cause sewer blockages. The important part is identifying the actual cause rather than assuming.
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
Could roots be affecting your drain?
01
Slow drains
Water takes longer than usual to disappear.
02
Gurgling
Toilets or drains make unusual sounds.
03
Sewer smells
Unpleasant smells appear around drains.
04
Repeat blocks
The same problem returns after clearing.
Why clearing the blockage may not be enough
When a blockage is cleared, the immediate problem may be solved: water can flow again. But when roots have entered through damaged pipework, removing the obstruction does not necessarily remove the reason it happened.
If a drain blocks repeatedly, a closer investigation can help show whether the line contains tree roots, a damaged section, a collapse, heavy build-up or another obstruction.
Caption: CCTV equipment can help identify the cause of recurring drain blockages before a repair is recommended.
DAN’S PRACTICAL ADVICE
“If a drain has blocked more than once, it is usually worth finding out why it is coming back rather than simply clearing it again. Roots or pipe damage can keep causing the same issue until the underlying problem is understood.”
Dan Wake | Wakeline Plumbing Solutions
How a CCTV drain inspection can help
For recurring blockages or suspected root intrusion, a CCTV drain inspection may help Dan see what is happening inside the line. A drain camera can help identify visible roots, obstructions or damaged pipework before further work is recommended.
Not every minor blockage needs a camera inspection. The right next step depends on what has been happening at your property, how often the blockage has occurred and what is found during the initial assessment.
Has your drain blocked more than once?
A recurring blockage may indicate roots, pipe damage or another underlying problem. Speak directly with Dan for practical advice on what should be checked next.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Questions about roots and blocked drains
RELATED ARTICLES
Helpful reading for recurring drain problems
BLOCKED DRAINS
Blocked Drain Keeps Coming Back?
Common reasons a drain returns after it has already been cleared.
BLOCKED DRAINS
Do You Need a CCTV Drain Inspection?
When a drain camera can help find the cause of a repeating problem.
BLOCKED DRAINS
Signs You May Have a Blocked Sewer Line
What smells, sounds and slow drains may be trying to tell you.
Sources
SA Water, Significant spike in sewer blockages amid prolonged dry, 12 August 2025.
SA Water, Sewer blockages and overflows.
Need help with a blocked drain in Adelaide?
Wakeline Plumbing Solutions provides practical blocked drain help across Adelaide’s western, coastal and surrounding suburbs. Speak directly with Dan.
Request a callback
Tell us what is happening and Dan will get back to you. For urgent blocked drain issues, calling is usually the fastest option.
Phone: 0403 626 998
Email: contact@wakelineplumbingsolutions.com.au
Licensed & insured plumber
ABN: 25204084108