Tree roots in clay drains are a London classic. We cut them out mechanically, chemically inhibit regrowth, and confirm the pipe is still structurally sound by CCTV.
What we do, end to end
Mechanical root-cutter head on the jetting truck removes the root mass. Foaming root-inhibitor herbicide applied through the drain to discourage regrowth. CCTV survey post-cut confirms whether the pipe needs relining or is sound to continue as-is.
Signs of root infiltration
Recurring blockages in the same drain run
Roots regrow over months. Recurrence within a year usually means roots.
Slow drain clearance even after rodding
Roots have created a permanent restriction in the pipe bore.
Tree within 5m of the drain run
Sycamore, willow and ash root particularly aggressively into clay.
CCTV report from a previous job mentions roots
Confirms the diagnosis; we move straight to cutting.
What it costs (indicative)
Root-cutting is a fixed-price job after a CCTV survey confirms scope. Quote includes follow-up CCTV. Relining is quoted separately if the pipe is too damaged to continue as-is. Full pricing.
When to call us
- ✔ The same drain blocks repeatedly despite clearance.
- ✔ Your CCTV report has flagged root intrusion.
- ✔ There's a large tree within 5m of the drain run.
- ✔ You're a property manager seeing the same blockage on quarterly cleans.