This case study covers tree roots in a drain in Cashmere that had blocked the grey water line.
Location: Cashmere, Moreton Bay
Service: Blocked drain and pipe repair
Date: June 2026
Turnaround: Inspected the day of the call, repaired the next day
The problem
A Cashmere homeowner had a blocked grey water drain and suspected large tree roots. The job was booked as urgent.
What we found
Our plumber cleared the line with a jet blaster and sent a CCTV camera down the pipe. The footage showed a section where roots had broken into the pipe, which would keep blocking even after it was cleared.
Fixed-price options
We talked the homeowner through the footage and gave fixed-price options to repair the damaged section properly.
What we did
- Hand-excavated down to the damaged section of pipe
- Cut out the failed section and replaced it with new pipe and couplings
- Concreted around the joins and added drainage gravel
- Backfilled and cleaned up the work area
The result
The drain is flowing freely, and the damaged section that was letting roots in has been replaced.
How to stop tree roots in a drain in Cashmere coming back
Roots find their way into small cracks and joints, because drains carry the water and nutrients they want. Once inside, they grow quickly, so clearing them is often only a short-term fix. However, repairing or relining the damaged section stops them coming back.
Before you plant near drains, check where your pipes run. You can learn more on our tree roots in sewer pipes page, and Unitywater, which looks after water and sewerage in Moreton Bay, shares useful tips too. Finally, a CCTV inspection shows exactly where roots are getting in. Read more about our CCTV drain inspections or the QBCC licensing rules for drainage work.
Need a plumber? We’re available 24/7. Call The Plumbing Gang on 1300 671 525.