You may also end up in a similar situation if you smoke, vape or drink coffee

Dog owners are being warned(Image: Getty)

People who drink coffee are being warned to avoid a common mistake, or risk having a pretty expensive cuppa. The warning comes as Saga home insurance’s product manager, Anna Thunstrom, and campaign group, Unblocktober, cautioned people that you could do it and not realise.

Anna said: “Coffee grounds have always been a drain clogger, but more people have taken to brewing coffee at home since the pandemic. It means more coffee grounds are going down the sink, which can clump together and cause blockages.”

Jacob Larkin, spokesperson for Unblocktober, extended the warning to vapers, as he said: “The rising number of vape users is unfortunately reflected in our drains.

“Disposable vape cartridges and e-cigarette butts are being flushed, which don’t break down and clog drains.” And pet owners, too, are being cautioned.

Anna said: “Hair is one of the leading causes of clogs, and pet bath time adds to the issue.” Jacob added:”Thick and oil-based skin and hair care products with ingredients like palm and coconut oil contribute to fat bergs and blockages putting more and more pressure on our drains.”

If you experience a blocked drain in your home, Anna says: “The severity, location, and repair method that’s needed to clear a blocked drain all influence how much it could cost.

“This could range anywhere from £50 to maybe even £400. Don’t forget you’ll also need to pay the call-out fee, which could be around £50, up to £200 for out of hours.

“Most standard home insurance policies will cover water damage caused by overflowing drains, but they typically don’t cover unblocking the drain itself. However, some insurers offer home emergency insurance as an optional add-on.

“This can cover the cost of an approved tradesperson to fix unusable kitchen sinks, blocked toilets, or other clogged drains in your home.”

Jacob adds that: “Our research shows that the potential repair cost over the next five years in England and Wales could reach at least £500 million.”

Stick to the three Ps

When it comes to toilets, Jacob says: “Our number one piece of advice is to stick to the three Ps rule when it comes to flushing waste. Only flush pee, poo, and paper!”

But sometimes waste does need to go down the drain, like rinsing off an oil hair mask in the shower. Jacob says: “Try blotting off the excess before rinsing to minimise the impact on the water system. It’s worth opting for lighter alternatives too, like argan or jojoba oil. It’s not about avoiding oils entirely but using them more mindfully and choosing lighter formulations whenever possible.”