A hair blockage develops in bath, shower and basin wastes where strands collect around the grating, the trap and the bend of the branch pipe, binding together with soap residue, conditioner, shampoo and body oils. The resulting fibrous mass slowly restricts the bore until the fitting begins to drain noticeably more slowly. The issue is particularly common in shared households and rental properties across London where multiple users contribute over time. Engineers usually address common causes by removing the waste fitting and trap, clearing the obstruction mechanically and rodding the short branch pipe. Where access is limited, a small auger or hand-held drain rod is used. Building Regulations Part H1 and BS EN 12056 set out installation standards for sanitary plumbing, and the use of a hair-catching grate over the plug hole can help slow recurrence.
Hair blockage
Drain blockage caused by hair binding with soap residue inside bath and shower wastes.
