Unplasticised PVC (uPVC) replaced earthenware as the default drainage material because it is light, cheap, chemically resistant and comes in long lengths with solvent-cement or rubber-ring joints — far fewer weak points for roots.
PVC is not indestructible: it deforms under poor bedding or heavy loads (ovality), becomes brittle with long UV exposure above ground, and poorly made solvent joints can still leak.
The default material for modern sewer and stormwater drains.
Virtually all Australian drainage installed since the late 1970s.
A CCTV drain inspection is the standard way to confirm whether this is what's happening in your pipes: the camera shows the condition on screen, a locator pinpoints the exact position and depth, and you get a recorded report before any repair decisions are made.
A CCTV drain inspection shows exactly what's happening inside your pipes — no guesswork.