Updated November 2026
Frankston is the largest locality in the city, running from the foreshore and Kananook Creek behind the dune, through the streets around the station and the Nepean Highway, east to Karingal and the streets around the Karingal hub. About 39% of homes were rented at the 2021 Census, and the housing runs from postwar houses to units near the centre. Frankston Blocked Drains is a free referral service connecting you with licensed drain plumbers who cover Frankston and the 3199 area. We are not a plumbing business, and the referral costs you nothing.
Old lines in Karingal and the older streets
In the 1960s the Housing Commission and A.V. Jennings built the Karingal estate east of the town centre, and much of the housing around it is of that era or older. Sewer lines that age are often clay pipe, and with mature trees nearby, roots at the joints are a common cause of slow drains and repeat blockages. A camera inspection shows whether a clear will do or whether relining makes more sense. See tree roots in drains.
Rain and stormwater
VICSES notes that Frankston is prone to flash flooding during heavy rainfall, and records water reaching 4.10 metres at Skye Road, Frankston in December 1988. In a heavy storm, water pooling in the yard may be the street drainage overwhelmed rather than your pipes. Once the rain stops, check that your own stormwater lines and pits are clear. Your property's drainage links to Frankston City Council's network at a stormwater discharge point, which the council allocates and can locate on request. See blocked stormwater.
Units and rentals
In units around the centre, a blockage in a shared line affects every lot connected to it, so start with the owners corporation. Renters should tell the landlord or agent straight away, in writing. Landlords can send the quote form with the tenant's contact details and the plumber can arrange access.
What it typically costs
As a guide, a standard clear typically runs $150 to $400, a camera with jet blasting $350 to $900, and relining $3,000 to $8,000 and up. Quotes vary, the plumber's written quote is the price that counts, and confirm GST on it. See the cost guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does Karingal count as Frankston?
Yes. Karingal is a local area inside the locality of Frankston, so a Karingal address is covered on this page.
Is the blockage mine or South East Water's?
South East Water maintains the sewer up to the connection point with your property. The pipes upstream of that point are the owner's.
Is my street flood-prone?
We do not say. Ask Melbourne Water or Frankston City Council for flood information about your address.
Nearby, see Frankston North and Seaford.