Who is responsible for fixing a blocked drain? It’s a question we are asked constantly at Linken Services, and the answer isn’t always obvious. Following changes to UK legislation a few years ago, the rules regarding ownership shifted, transferring a significant amount of responsibility from homeowners to water companies. However, knowing where your responsibility ends and theirs begins can save you unnecessary stress and money.
To understand your system, you need to know the three main types of pipework:
- The Drain: This is the section of pipe that serves only your property, located within your boundary. If this blocks or cracks, it is entirely your responsibility to maintain and repair it.
- The Lateral Drain: This is the section of pipe that carries wastewater away from your property boundary to the main sewer, often running under public pavements or road verges. These are the responsibility of your local water utility company (such as Severn Trent).
- The Public Sewer: This is the main shared pipe that collects waste from multiple properties. These are also fully maintained by the water company.
If you share a single pipe with your neighbour before it connects to the main road, that shared section is legally a public sewer, meaning the water company should clear any blockages free of charge. If you’re unsure where a blockage lies, we can locate it quickly using our tracking equipment. If the issue is on the public side, we’ll let you know so you can contact your water board immediately.