Tree Roots in Sewer Pipes: Clearing, Relining or Replacing?

Quick answer

Tree roots can be cleared, the pipe may be relined, or a damaged section may need replacing. The right choice depends on the condition of the pipe—not simply the presence of roots. An inspection helps explain which option suits your drain.

Pipe relining means fitting a new lining inside the existing pipe.

How do roots get into the pipe?

Roots find their way in through cracks, or through gaps where two pipes join. SA Water explains this in its tree planting guide.

Cutting the roots out lets water flow again. But it doesn't close the gap they came through.

A drain camera inspection lets the plumber see inside the pipe on a screen. The pipe may need clearing first so the camera can see properly.

Ask whether the camera reached the whole problem area. Seeing roots on screen doesn't tell you which tree they came from, or who pays for repairs.

Option 1: Clear the roots ✂️

We use hydro jetting to clear suitable root blockages from drain lines. Clearing gets water moving again and lets the plumber take a closer look at the pipe. Some people choose regular clearing as ongoing upkeep, knowing it won't fix the pipe.

Clearing the roots doesn't fix the gap they got in through. If the gap is still there, the roots can grow back.

Ask what was found after clearing, and whether a repair is worth thinking about. Nobody can tell you exactly when the next blockage will happen.

Option 2: Line the old pipe 🔧

Pipe relining means fitting a new lining inside your existing pipe, a bit like a pipe inside a pipe. It can mean less digging, if your pipe is suitable.

But a lining can't fix everything. For example, it won't fix a pipe that has shifted badly out of line, or one that doesn't slope the right way for water to drain.

Questions worth asking

• Why is my pipe suitable for relining?
• Exactly which part of the pipe will be lined?
• What happens where other pipes connect to it?
• How will you check the finished job?
• What do the guarantees on the lining and the work cover?

Option 3: Replace the damaged pipe ⛏️

Digging up and replacing the pipe may be the right choice if it has collapsed, shifted a lot or can't be lined. Sometimes only a short section needs replacing. Sometimes the damage is more spread out.

The quote should explain more than just the new pipe. How deep it is, how easy it is to reach, other pipes or cables underground and what's on top (paving, lawn, garden) all affect the job.

Check whether putting your paving or garden back is included. You should know what will be dug up and how the area will be left.

What does root clearing or relining cost?

A drain camera inspection is included with every paid blocked-drain service. We confirm your quote after a site visit.

Access, pipe condition and the repair needed affect the price. Clearing and repairing are separate jobs. See our blocked-drain cost guide for more about clearing costs.

How do you choose?

Start with one simple question: "Why does this option suit my pipe?" The answer should match what the camera actually showed.

Compare your options

• What the work will fix, and what it won't.
• The total price and how much mess there'll be.
• Whether you'll still need regular clearing afterwards.
• What checks, report and guarantee are included.

You should be able to understand the recommendation without knowing any plumbing words.

Need a hand? 👋

⚠️ If sewage is overflowing, stop using the affected drains and keep children and pets away. Call for help rather than trying to remove roots yourself.

When you book, tell us about any past blockages and whether you have old camera footage. That helps us work out what to check before you choose a fix.

We help homes across Greater Metropolitan Adelaide with blocked drains and tree roots. We'll show you what we find and explain your options in plain English.

📅 Book online or 📞 call (08) 7534 5448

Expertise. Clarity. Care.