Price to Unclog Drain: Toronto Costs by Drain Type (2025 Update)

In Toronto, the price to unclog a drain can range widely depending on several key factors, including the type of drain, the location of the blockage, and whether additional plumbing services are needed. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $120 and $800 for drain cleaning, with some jobs costing more if excavation or pipe repair is involved. Below is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay for each type of drain, how the prices are calculated, and why some drain unclogging services are significantly more expensive than others.

🚽 Toilet Drain

When it comes to a clogged toilet, the price to unclog drain issues in this category is usually on the lower end of the spectrum—typically ranging from $110 to $275 in Toronto. This price often includes the use of a standard plumbing auger or toilet snake, which can remove blockages like paper buildup, foreign objects, or minor root intrusions near the toilet flange. However, if the clog is deeper in the stack or the plumber needs to remove the toilet to access the pipe directly, expect to pay more. Removing and reinstalling a toilet can add labor time and complexity, raising the cost by $50 to $100. Emergency calls or same-day service may also increase the total fee. Some plumbers charge a flat rate for simple toilet clogs, while others may charge hourly, which can push the final price to unclog drain work higher depending on how long the job takes.

🧼 Bathroom Sink or Kitchen Sink Drain

The price to unclog drain lines in your bathroom or kitchen sink can vary between $120 and $300, depending on the nature of the blockage and how accessible the plumbing is. In kitchen sinks, grease buildup, food scraps, and hardened soap are common causes of slow drains or complete clogs. Bathroom sinks are more likely to become blocked with hair, toothpaste, and residue from grooming products. These drains are typically cleared using a handheld auger or power snake, but in some cases, the P-trap or S-trap under the sink may need to be removed and cleaned manually. If a double kitchen sink is involved or if a garbage disposal needs to be disconnected, that can increase labor time. In condos or older Toronto homes with narrow or corroded pipes, clearing a sink clog might be more labor-intensive, thus raising the price to unclog drain work significantly.

🛁 Bathtub or Shower Drain

Unclogging a bathtub or shower drain in Toronto is a slightly more involved job, with the price to unclog drain systems of this type typically costing around $200 to $275. These drains often suffer from a buildup of hair, soap scum, mineral deposits, and sometimes even mold. If the clog is within the trap or close to the drain cover, it may be a simple job. However, blockages deeper in the line may require removing the overflow plate and using a specialized auger or even a hydro-jetting tool to flush the system. In cases where old galvanized pipes are present—common in older Toronto homes—the clog may be worsened by pipe scaling, which requires more intensive cleaning and can increase the overall cost. If the plumber also conducts a drain inspection to determine the cause of chronic clogs, that can raise the price to unclog drain systems like these even further.

🏠 Floor Drain (Laundry or Basement)

Floor drains in basements or laundry rooms are more complex and can be trickier to diagnose, resulting in a higher price to unclog drain problems of this kind—usually between $150 and $350. These drains are often connected to the home’s larger drainage system and can be affected by backflow, sediment buildup, soap residue, or lint from washing machines. In some cases, standing water around the drain may signal a partial sewer blockage or root intrusion in the main line, which will require more than basic snaking. Toronto plumbers might recommend a camera inspection before proceeding with deeper cleaning techniques like power rodding or water jetting. Because floor drains are often located in unfinished areas, the work may involve cleaning up messes, lifting floor covers, or navigating tight access points, all of which can drive up the price to unclog drain issues in these spaces.

🏡 Main Drain or Sewer Line

Unclogging a main sewer line is one of the most labor-intensive and expensive jobs, with the price to unclog drain systems at this level ranging from $300 to over $800 depending on severity. The main drain carries waste from the entire home out to the city sewer system or a private septic tank. Tree root intrusion, pipe misalignment, grease buildup, or debris can all cause backups. In Toronto, older clay pipes are especially prone to damage, which may lead to recurring clogs or even a collapsed line. If a simple auger doesn’t resolve the issue, plumbers may use hydro-jetting or conduct a video inspection, which can add $100 to $200 to the bill. In extreme cases, the sewer line may need to be partially excavated and replaced, resulting in costs that exceed $1,000. It’s always smart to get multiple quotes for sewer line service, as the price to unclog drain infrastructure like this can vary widely depending on how modern or outdated your home’s plumbing system is.

🌧️ Storm Drain (Exterior)

Storm drains located outside the home—commonly found in driveways, patios, or landscaped areas—require specialized equipment to clear and typically cost between $250 and $700. The price to unclog drain systems outdoors depends heavily on accessibility, length of the pipe, and what materials are blocking it. During the fall, Toronto’s storm drains often get blocked by leaves, mud, gravel, or even small animal nests. Clearing these blockages may require pressurized water jetting or vacuum suction systems, both of which are more expensive than traditional snaking. If the storm drain is connected to a sump pump or the foundation drainage system, a backup can pose serious risks to the property, making timely professional service even more critical. As with main lines, camera inspections are often recommended, which can increase the price to unclog drain problems outdoors, but are worth it for preventing water damage or costly future repairs.

📹 Drain Camera Inspection (Optional but Recommended)

For stubborn or recurring clogs, many Toronto homeowners opt for a drain camera inspection, which adds about $90 to $120 to the service call. When bundled with cleaning, the total price to unclog drain and inspect it typically falls between $160 and $200. These inspections allow plumbers to see the exact location and cause of a blockage in real time, using a small waterproof camera fed through the pipe. This is especially useful for diagnosing mainline problems, root invasions, or broken pipes. Investing in a camera inspection not only increases your chances of a successful cleanout but also helps prevent unnecessary guesswork that could raise costs later.

Price to Unclog Drain: Factors That Affect the Cost in Toronto

When it comes to the price to unclog a drain in Toronto, there are several factors that can influence the overall cost. The complexity of the clog is one of the biggest factors, with simple clogs in sinks or toilets typically costing less than more complicated clogs in main drains or sewer lines. The size of the pipes, the location of the clog, and the amount of time needed for the job also all play a role in determining the final price.

Additional services like drain inspections or pipe repairs can drive up the price as well. A drain inspection is particularly useful if the clog is recurring or hard to pinpoint, providing insight into potential underlying issues such as tree root intrusion or pipe misalignment.

Why Drain Type Affects Unclogging Costs in Toronto

The type of drain that needs to be unclogged has a major influence on the final price of the service. For example, unclogging a kitchen sink or bathroom sink typically costs between $120 and $300. However, unclogging a main sewer line or drain can range from $300 to over $800, depending on the severity of the clog and whether additional services like hydro-jetting or pipe replacement are needed.

Older homes with outdated plumbing systems may also face higher costs due to the need for specialized tools or additional labor to navigate old pipes. Homeowners should be prepared for these potential extra charges when dealing with clogged drains in older homes.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Plumber for Drain Cleaning

While the cost to unclog a drain can vary, the choice of plumber can also impact the price. Some plumbers offer flat-rate pricing for standard unclogging services, while others charge hourly rates. Hourly rates typically range between $60 and $200, depending on the plumber’s experience and the complexity of the job. For larger or more complicated projects, the total cost can add up quickly.

When selecting a plumber, it’s important to ask about their rates, as well as whether they offer any guarantees on their work. Opting for a licensed and insured professional can help ensure that the job is done correctly and prevent further plumbing issues from arising in the future.

How to Save on Drain Unclogging Services in Toronto

To save on drain unclogging services, homeowners in Toronto can take a few simple steps. First, addressing minor clogs as soon as they occur can prevent more serious blockages down the line. Regular maintenance of drains—such as using drain covers to catch hair and debris—can reduce the frequency of clogs and help maintain the health of your plumbing system.

Additionally, if you’re dealing with recurring clogs, it might be worth investing in a drain inspection to identify the root cause of the issue. While the initial cost of a drain camera inspection may seem high, it can save you money in the long run by preventing larger, more costly issues from developing.

Unclogging a Storm Drain: Special Considerations

Storm drains often present unique challenges when it comes to unclogging, as they are located outside of the home and may be obstructed by dirt, debris, leaves, or even small animals. The price to unclog a storm drain in Toronto typically ranges between $250 and $700, depending on the accessibility and length of the pipe.

During the fall, leaves can accumulate and clog storm drains, leading to water backups and potential flooding around your property. For this reason, regular maintenance of outdoor drains is highly recommended to prevent clogs and associated damage. Using a plumber who specializes in outdoor drains may help resolve these issues more efficiently, particularly in areas prone to seasonal blockages.