Sewer and Stormwater Drainage Services
Professional Sewer and Drainage Plumbing in Melbourne
A well-functioning sewer and drainage system is essential for every home and business. When drains become blocked, pipes collapse or wastewater begins to back up, it can cause major health risks and damage to your property. SGT Plumbing provides complete sewer and stormwater drainage services across The Mornington Peninsula, Frankston to Mordialloc and The Bass Coast to Phillip Island, helping homeowners, businesses and builders maintain reliable stormwater and sewer systems.
We use the latest technology including CCTV drain cameras, high-pressure water jetting and advanced excavation tools to deliver fast, accurate and lasting results.
What is the Difference Between Stormwater Drains and Sewer Drains
Understanding the basics can help you identify problems before they escalate:
- Sewer Drains: Carry wastewater from fixtures such as sinks, toilets, showers and appliances into your property’s underground pipes.
- Common Sewers: Larger pipes outside your property that connect multiple homes or businesses to council wastewater systems.
- Stormwater systems: Include both rain water and surface water, designed to capture and keep your property safe and free from flooding.
When either system fails, the result is often unpleasant odours, slow water flow or sewage backing up. These issues require urgent attention from an experienced plumber.
Common Sewer and Drainage Problems
Blocked Drains and Sewers
Everyday materials like grease, hair, wipes and food scraps often build up in pipes. More serious blockages may come from tree root intrusion or collapsed pipes. Symptoms include slow draining sinks, foul smells, or gurgling noises from pipes.
Broken or Collapsed Pipes
Older or poorly installed pipes can crack or collapse, causing leaks underground. This often requires repair or full replacement to restore proper function.
Sewage Backups
If wastewater flows back into toilets, sinks or showers, this indicates a major sewer issue. Not only does it disrupt daily living, but it also poses significant health hazards.
Tree Root Infiltration
Tree roots are one of the most common causes of blocked drains. They seek out moisture inside pipes, creating blockages that worsen over time if not cleared.
Corrosion and Ageing Systems
Pipes made of clay or cast iron eventually wear out, causing leaks or total failure. Replacing them with PVC ensures longevity and smooth water flow.
Advanced Sewer and Drainage Solutions
At SGT Plumbing, we combine expertise with modern tools to provide the most effective solutions.
CCTV Drain Camera Inspections
We use drain cameras to locate blockages, cracks and intrusions inside pipes. This allows us to diagnose issues accurately without unnecessary digging.
High-Pressure Water Jetting
Jetting clears stubborn blockages caused by grease, scale or roots. It is highly effective for restoring proper water flow and is safe for your pipes.
Drain Snakes and Augers
For minor blockages close to the surface, we use mechanical snakes and augers to remove clogs quickly.
Pipe Repairs and Replacements
Damaged or collapsed pipes can be repaired or replaced depending on severity. We use durable materials designed to withstand pressure and deliver long-term performance.
Preventative Maintenance
Routine inspections and cleaning reduce the risk of emergency blockages and costly repairs. Our team can design a maintenance plan suited to your property.
Why Regular Sewer and Stormwater Drainage Maintenance Matters
- Protect your property from costly water damage and flooding
- Maintain hygiene by preventing sewage overflows and foul odours
- Save money long term by addressing issues early
- Ensure compliance with local plumbing standards
Improve efficiency by keeping water flowing freely through your system
Tips to Prevent Blocked Drains
- Do not flush wipes, sanitary items or grease down toilets and sinks
- Install drain covers to catch hair and food scraps
- Avoid planting large trees near stormwater and sewer lines
- Run water regularly to keep traps from drying out
Book routine CCTV inspections to catch issues early
Why Choose SGT Plumbing?
- Experience: Skilled plumbers with years of hands-on knowledge
- Technology: Advanced equipment for non-invasive and accurate solutions
- Custom service: Tailored solutions for homes, businesses and construction projects
- Quality: Durable repairs and reliable workmanship backed by trusted materials
- Experience: Skilled plumbers with years of hands-on knowledge
Sewer and Drainage Plumbing You Can Rely On
When it comes to sewer and stormwater drainage systems, fast action is crucial. Whether you have a blocked sewer, slow stormwater drains, or you suspect broken pipes, our team provides clear answers and effective solutions.
SGT Plumbing ensures your system is restored with minimal disruption, helping you get back to daily life quickly and safely.
Sewer & Stormwater Drainage – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Sewer drains carry wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and appliances to the main sewer system.
- Stormwater drains carry rainwater from your roof, gutters, and surface grates to the street drainage system or soakage pits.
These two systems must remain separate — mixing them is illegal and can cause flooding, health risks, and fines.
Signs of a sewer blockage include:
- Toilets not flushing properly or backing up
- Slow-draining sinks, showers, or bath
- Gurgling noises from drains
- Sewage smells inside or outside
- Overflow at the Overflow Relief Gully (ORG) outside your home
If you notice any of these, call SGT Plumbing immediately sewer issues can quickly become a health hazard.
Common signs of a stormwater blockage are:
- Water pooling around your property after rain
- Gutters overflowing even when recently cleaned
- Water bubbling up from outdoor drains
- Slow drainage from downpipes during heavy rain
Stormwater blockages are often caused by leaves, debris, or tree roots and should be cleared quickly to prevent property flooding.
We use specialised equipment, including:
- High-pressure water jetters to cut through debris, grease, and tree roots
- CCTV drain cameras to locate and identify the cause of the blockage
- Pipe locators to pinpoint problem areas underground
Our process ensures the blockage is fully cleared — not just temporarily relieved.
Yes. Tree roots are one of the most common causes of both sewer and stormwater blockages, especially in older clay or concrete pipes. Roots enter through small cracks and expand, causing repeated issues.
We can clear roots with our jetter and recommend long-term solutions, such as pipe relining or replacement.
Yes SGT Plumbing can design and install new sewer and stormwater drainage systems for:
- New builds and renovations
Property extensions - Upgrading or replacing old, damaged, or undersized drains
We ensure all installations comply with Victorian plumbing regulations for long-lasting performance.
For sewer blockages:
- Limit water use to prevent overflow
- Check if your ORG is blocked with debris and remove it if safe
For stormwater blockages:
- Clear leaves from gutters and downpipe openings
- Check surface grates for obstructions
If the problem persists, professional equipment will be needed to clear the line fully.
- Keep gutters and downpipes clean
- Avoid flushing wipes, sanitary products, or excessive paper
- Have regular CCTV inspections if you’ve had repeated blockages
- Trim back large trees near drainage lines