Who is Responsible for Repairing and Clearing Drains?

As a Homeowner, What Am I Responsible for?

As a homeowner, you are usually responsible for the drains inside your property and the ones that connect to the main sewer line. This includes any pipes under your garden, driveway, or walls. If a drain gets blocked or broken within your property boundary, it’s up to you to sort it out. Regularly checking your drains and keeping them clear can help prevent issues.

You should also make sure you don’t pour fat, oil, or grease down the sink, as these can cause blockages. Other things like wet wipes, even if they say “flushable,” can clog your drains. If your pipes do get blocked or damaged, you might need to call a professional to help with clearing drains or repairing them.

It’s a good idea to know where your drains are and how they connect to the main sewer. If the problem is outside your property or affects more than one home, it might be the responsibility of your water company. Always check your boundaries so you know what’s yours to look after and what’s not.

Who Can Provide Me With a CCTV Drain Inspection?

A CCTV drain inspection is a clever way to see what’s happening inside your pipes. A tiny camera is sent down your drain to check for blockages, cracks, or other problems. This is often done by professionals who specialise in clearing drains and repairing them.

Drain companies or plumbing experts can carry out a CCTV inspection. These experts have the tools and experience to find out what’s wrong quickly and safely. If you’re worried about a bad smell, slow-draining water, or repeated blockages, a CCTV inspection can be the best way to figure out what’s going on.

Water companies sometimes use CCTV inspections, but only if the problem is in the public sewer, not on your property. For private drains, it’s up to you to hire a company. Look for businesses that have good reviews and experience in repairing drains. They’ll give you a report showing what’s wrong and how it can be fixed.

A CCTV inspection is not only for finding problems but also for preventing them. If you’ve just moved into a new house or have an older home, it might be worth having one done to spot any issues before they become bigger problems. This small step can save you time, money, and trouble in the long run.

Public or Private Drains?

Drains can be tricky because some are your responsibility, while others belong to the water company. A private drain is one that only serves your property. For example, the pipe that takes waste from your kitchen or bathroom is private until it meets the main sewer.

Public drains, on the other hand, are looked after by your water company. These are the big pipes that collect waste from lots of houses. If there’s a problem with a public drain, the water company will sort it out, not you. However, if the issue is with your private drain, you’ll need to deal with it yourself.

If you’re unsure whether a drain is public or private, you can ask your water company or check the plans for your property. Knowing this can help you avoid confusion when something goes wrong. Always make sure you understand where your responsibilities begin and end.

Are Blocked Drains the Landlord’s Responsibility?

If you rent your home, you might wonder who has to deal with blocked drains. In most cases, landlords are responsible for clearing drains and repairing them, especially if the problem is caused by something outside your control, like tree roots or old pipes.

However, if you cause the blockage by flushing something you shouldn’t, such as nappies or wet wipes, you might have to pay for the repairs. It’s always a good idea to let your landlord know about the problem as soon as possible. They can arrange for a professional to fix it before it gets worse.

Your tenancy agreement might also explain who is responsible for maintaining the drains. If you’re not sure, check the agreement or speak to your landlord. In most cases, landlords are expected to keep the property in good condition, including the drains.

What if My Local Environmental Health Department Asks Me to Carry Out Drain Improvements?

Sometimes, the local environmental health department might get involved if there’s a serious problem with your drains. This can happen if a blockage or damage is causing health risks, such as bad smells, flooding, or pests. If they ask you to carry out drain improvements, you’ll need to follow their instructions to sort the problem quickly.

The first step is usually a letter explaining what needs to be done and why. This might include clearing drains, repairing damaged pipes, or improving your drainage system. You’ll need to hire a professional to carry out the work. Ignoring the request could lead to fines or further action, so it’s important to act quickly.

If you think the problem isn’t your responsibility, you can contact the department to explain. For example, if the issue is with a public drain, they might need to contact the water company instead. However, if the problem is with your private drains, it’s up to you to fix it.

Remember, keeping your drains in good condition is not just about avoiding problems but also about staying within the law. Regular maintenance can help you avoid unexpected requests from the council or environmental health department in the future.