Drains FAQs

Aren't the council responsible for maintaining drains or sewers?

We are only responsible for drainage from our own buildings. Private drains and sewers are the responsibility of the property owner(s) while public sewers are usually the responsibility of Thames Water.

What do I do if I have a blockage?

Check that it is not just your drain that is blocked. If your neighbours are not affected, call an emergency plumber to clear the obstruction.

I am a council tenant. Who should I report drain and sewer problems to?

Either your area housing office or local service centre.

Why have I received a Notice to unblock or repair a drain or private sewer?

Because your property is (or believed to be) one of those drained by it. The owners or occupiers of any other affected houses will have received a similar notices.

But I haven't done anything that might block or damage the sewer so it can't be my fault, can it?

Generally it is not a question of fault but liability. The owner or occupier of the property is responsible for any repairs to private drains or sewers.

How can I help prevent further blockages?

It is best to avoid flushing anything down the drains which does not disintegrate readily in water (e.g. cardboard tubes, razor blades, packaging materials and some disposable goods such as nappies, especially those containing cloth, plastic or rubber). It is preferable to dispose of these by wrapping and placing them in the dustbin. Also avoid tipping cooking fat down the sink - it solidifies and accumulates inside the pipes.

What exactly am I responsible for?

You are exclusively responsible for the cleaning and repair of your own draims and jointly responsible with others for private sewers right up to the point where they join the public sewer, even where they pass through someone else's land or under a road.