When heavy rain hits the Gold Coast, storm drains can become overwhelmed within minutes. Whether it’s a flooded construction site, a blocked easement or rising water around commercial property, fast action is the only way to avoid major damage.
At APU Excavations & Rentals, we offer professional support during storm events, with rapid mobilisation of vacuum excavation, drain clearing and debris removal teams. We respond quickly, work safely and help restore stormwater flow to prevent further impact on people, property and infrastructure.
What causes emergency storm drain failures?
Stormwater systems are designed to cope with Queensland’s heavy downpours, but not every system is maintained or built to current standards. In the Gold Coast region, common emergency scenarios include:
- Blocked drains caused by built-up debris, tree roots or construction sediment
- Collapsed pipes or crushed easements after vehicle or site impact
- Poor runoff management during major rain events
- Drainage systems undersized for current flow volumes
The result is fast-rising water with nowhere to go. That’s where trained teams and modern machinery make all the difference.
What to expect from a professional emergency response
At APU Excavations & Rentals, we support civil contractors, builders, property managers and facility teams with reliable emergency drain solutions across the Gold Coast. Our approach is based on three essential steps:
- On-site assessment and control
Once on site, our team quickly identifies the cause of the overflow or blockage and works to stabilise the immediate area. This might include redirecting surface water, creating safe access or deploying suction to reduce water levels.
We work closely with clients to prioritise safety, protect assets and plan the next actions.
- Drain clearing with high-pressure hydro jetting
If the blockage is internal, we use hydro jetting equipment to break it up and flush it through. This method removes built-up sludge, debris, gravel and tree roots without damaging the pipes.
It’s fast, effective and ideal for stormwater lines that can’t be accessed manually.
Learn more about our hydro jetting services and how we keep drains flowing even in tough conditions.
- Vacuum excavation to clear pits and recover flow
When stormwater pits, gullies or trenches are filled with contaminated water, sludge or construction material, vacuum excavation is the safest way to clear them. Our vac trucks remove blockages with precision and no mess, allowing flow to resume safely.
Explore our vacuum excavation services and see why local contractors trust APU during critical site events.
Who we help during storm emergencies
We work with:
- Civil construction contractors managing large sites
- Plumbing and stormwater drainage companies in need of extra support
- Councils and public infrastructure teams
- Industrial and commercial property managers
- Residential developers and builders
Whether it’s a flooded pit on a civil job or an urgent response during a weekend storm, APU delivers with fully ticketed operators and a fleet ready for action.
Why choose APU Excavations & Rentals?
When drains fail, timing is everything. At APU Excavations & Rentals, we offer:
- Same-day or emergency dispatch across the Gold Coast
- A fleet of modern vac trucks from 4,000 to 7,000 litres
- Skilled crews with experience on public, residential and defence sites
- Integrated solutions including hydro jetting, drain clearing and debris disposal
- Local service with transparent communication and no delays
We understand the impact of flooding and drainage failures, and we know how to act quickly to resolve them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my site floods during a storm?
Call a professional drainage contractor immediately. APU Excavations & Rentals can respond the same day to assess the issue, redirect surface flow and start clearing blockages using hydro jetting and vacuum excavation.
Do you handle commercial and civil drainage emergencies?
Yes. We support projects of all sizes, including industrial sites, infrastructure jobs, subdivisions and multi-dwelling developments. Our fleet and team are equipped for large-scale drain failures.
Can you clear drains that are full of silt or construction waste?
Absolutely. Our vac trucks are ideal for removing sediment, silt, contaminated soil or wet construction debris from pits, trenches and underground stormwater lines.
Do you work after hours or on weekends?
Yes. We provide emergency support across the Gold Coast with flexible scheduling, including after-hours and weekend call-outs. Contact us to check current availability.
How quickly can you get to site?
We offer same-day response whenever possible. For high-priority jobs, we recommend calling early so we can mobilise a team and the right equipment.
If you’re facing a storm drain emergency in the Gold Coast region, contact APU Excavations & Rentals. We’ll help you clear the water, restore the flow and keep your project moving, safely and efficiently.