Clearing blockages

If you don't understand these instructions or don't feel able to do it, contact the Housing Contact Centre or your TMO.

unblocking a basin or sink unblocking a toilet traps

General advice

Blockages are usually caused by the build-up of waste: fat, tea leaves, hair, etc in the trap. It is a good idea to clear wastepipes and traps regularly, preferably with a suitable product available from DIY stores.
The trap is under the fitting (bath, basin or sink). It always holds some water in it which stops smells coming up the drain. However, waste can build up and become stuck in it.
If more than one fitting (bath, basin etc) is blocked, the blockage may be in the soil stack or main drain. This will need to be cleared by a plumber. If this is the case, contact us.

scoop out most of the water with a jug or cup
hold the rag or dish cloth tightly over the overflow opening
place the plunger over the plug hole and pump it up and down rapidly. This usually releases the blockage
after clearing the blockage unscrew the trap and clean it out
when you have finished, thoroughly wash your hands and any equipment.

if the pan is already full, remove some of the water into a bucket using a scoop, eg a jug or bowl
push the brush or plunger to the bottom of the pan
pump it up and down strongly about 10 times. This creates pressure which may shift the blockage
flush the toilet to see whether the blockage has gone
you may need to repeat this process several times before the toilet flushes normally. If there is no improvement after a couple of attempts, you should contact us
when you have finished, thoroughly wash your hands and any equipment.