blocked loo in South Shields (15)

Blocked toilets can cause bad smells, leaks, and even flooding — so it’s best to get help from a checked tradesperson straight away.

Whether it’s a simple blockage or a full drainage issue, find toilet unblocking services in South Shields with Checkatrade to fix the problem quickly and safely.

Why your toilet might be blocked

A toilet blockage can happen for several reasons, and knowing the cause can help you prevent it in the future. Common causes include:

• Too much toilet paper being flushed at once
• Flushing wipes, sanitary products, or cotton pads
• Foreign objects (toys, toothbrushes, etc.) accidentally flushed
• Build-up of limescale or debris in the pipework
• External drain issues or tree root intrusion

If the water rises after flushing or drains away very slowly, that’s a clear sign of a blockage.

What does a toilet unblocking service involve?

Plumbers can tackle any type of blockage — from minor clogs to major drain problems. Their services will typically include:

• Toilet and soil pipe unblocking
• Drain jetting and CCTV inspections
• Waste pipe repair and replacement
• Emergency plumbing callouts
• Bathroom plumbing diagnostics

They’ll identify the cause using specialist equipment and remove the blockage without damaging your toilet or pipes.

DIY fixes for a minor blockage

If the blockage is mild, you may be able to unblock the toilet yourself using household methods. Here are a few things you may wish to try:

• Pour baking soda and vinegar into the bowl, leave for 10 minutes, then flush with hot water
• Use a toilet plunger to dislodge soft blockages
• Feed a drain snake or wire down the U-bend to break up debris

If these methods don’t work or you have recurring problems, it’s time to call a checked plumber. You can find toilet unblocking services in South Shields right here on Checkatrade.

How much does it cost to unblock a toilet?

The average cost to unblock a toilet in the UK is around £115, depending on:

• The cause and severity of the blockage
• Whether it’s an emergency callout
• Your location in the UK
• Any additional repairs needed

Emergency toilet unblocking can cost slightly more, especially outside of working hours.

Emergency blocked toilet repairs

If your toilet is overflowing, leaking, or completely blocked, it’s classed as an emergency.

Many plumbers in South Shields offer 24/7 callouts for urgent repairs. They can quickly assess the situation, clear the blockage, and check for further drain or pipe damage to prevent repeat issues.

Tips for hiring a toilet unblocking service in your area

Before hiring a blocked toilet plumber near you, follow these checks to make sure you hire right:

• Read reviews on Checkatrade to see feedback from real customers
• Check the range of services offered (toilet unblocking, drain rodding, drain-jetting, CCTV inspections, emergency callouts)
• Confirm they have insurance for drain and property work
• Compare at least three quotes to ensure you receive a fair price

For tradespeople committed to quality and a job done right, search for toilet unblocking services in South Shields with Checkatrade.