Tree Roots Intruding Pipes: With streets lined by mature figs and eucalypts—common around MacPherson's Outlook or the green spaces near Norman Park State School—roots often seek out moisture in underground pipes, causing cracks and blockages. This is especially prevalent in older Queenslander homes elevated on stumps, where pipes are more exposed.

Grease and Food Buildup: Family gatherings at the Norman Park Sports & Community Club or home barbecues lead to kitchen sinks clogged with fats and scraps. In a suburb with plenty of eateries and home cooks, this grease solidifies in pipes, creating stubborn obstructions.

Stormwater Overflows and Debris: Norman Creek, which borders the suburb and flows into the Brisbane River, can overflow during Brisbane's summer storms. Leaves, dirt, and even rubbish from local events like tai chi sessions in Wilson Park get washed into drains, exacerbating blockages.

Hair and Soap Scum in Bathrooms: In densely populated areas near the train station, shared households or rentals often see showers and baths clogged with everyday buildup.

Cracked or Collapsed Pipes: The suburb's history of flooding has weakened many lines, leading to shifts in soil that crack pipes over time.