When a drain blocks, it is not always your problem to fix. In London, responsibility depends on where the blockage is and whether the pipe serves just your property or several. Here is a general guide. Here is who is usually responsible for blocked drains.
Need a plumber in London? Get a free quote or call 07405088196.
Drains inside your boundary serving only you
The pipes that carry waste from your home and serve only your property, within your property boundary, are generally your responsibility as the owner. Landlords are usually responsible for these in rented homes.
Shared drains and lateral drains
Since October 2011, most shared drains and sewers that used to be privately owned were transferred to the regional water and sewerage companies. In most of London, that is Thames Water. In general, a pipe that serves more than one property, or a drain that runs outside your boundary, is likely to be their responsibility.
Public sewers
The main sewers under roads and pavements belong to the sewerage company. If a public sewer is blocked, you will often see several neighbours affected at once.
Book a plumber in London
Fixed-price quotes from local, fully trained plumbers.
How to tell where the blockage is
- Lift your inspection chamber cover. If it is full, the blockage is downstream
- If your chamber is empty but your fixtures are slow, the blockage is between your home and that chamber
- If neighbours are affected too, it may be a shared drain or the sewer
If you are not sure, a plumber with a drain camera can identify exactly where the problem is.
Flats and leasehold properties
In blocks of flats, drains serving more than one flat may be the freeholder’s or management company’s responsibility, or the sewerage company’s. Check your lease and contact your managing agent.
Responsible for blocked drains? What to do next
If the blockage is in your own drains, a plumber can clear it with rods, jetting or a camera survey. If it is a shared drain or sewer, contact the sewerage company. If you are unsure, a drain survey gives you a clear answer and photos to share.
Frequently asked questions
Will Thames Water clear my drain for free?
They deal with blockages on shared drains and public sewers. Blockages on your own private drain are usually your responsibility.
Who pays for a drain camera survey?
Usually whoever asks for it, though it may be recoverable if the blockage turns out to be on a shared drain.
What if tree roots from a neighbour’s tree damage my drain?
This can be complex. Get a survey and speak to your insurer.
