Updated November 2026
Frankston North began as a Housing Commission estate in the 1950s, built on a former pine plantation. Nearly all of its homes are separate houses (93% at the 2021 Census), and it has the highest rental share in the City of Frankston, about 45%. Frankston Blocked Drains is a free referral service connecting you with licensed drain plumbers who cover Frankston North and the 3200 area. We are not a plumbing business, and the referral costs you nothing.
The oldest sewer lines in the city
A house built in the 1950s has a drain line that is around 70 years old. Lines that age are often clay pipe with joints every metre or so, and after decades of ground movement and tree growth, roots get in. That makes Frankston North a suburb of repeat blockages: a drain that is cleared, runs well for a few months, then slows again. When that happens, a camera inspection is the next step, because it shows whether a regular jet blast will do or whether relining would end the cycle.
Landlords and tenants
With close to half the homes rented, a lot of drain work here is arranged by landlords and agents. If you rent, tell your landlord or agent straight away, in writing. If you are the landlord, camera footage gives you something concrete to decide on when you are not on site. Send the quote form with the tenant's contact details and the plumber can arrange access.
Your pipe or South East Water's
South East Water maintains the sewer up to the connection point with your property, often near the boundary, and the pipes upstream of it are the owner's. In older houses the inspection opening may have been buried under later paving or garden beds. The plumber may need to locate it first, and South East Water can tell you where your connection point is.
What it typically costs
As a guide, a standard clear typically runs $150 to $400, tree root clearing $250 to $600, and a camera with jet blasting $350 to $900. Quotes vary, the plumber's written quote is the price that counts, and confirm GST on it. See the cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my drain keep blocking?
Most often, roots at a joint in an older clay line. A camera finds the joint.
Is relining worth it on an older house?
If the same line blocks every few months, relining often costs less over time than repeat clears.