A blocked drain is one of those things that every homeowner has to deal with at some point, and knowing who is responsible and where to get help can save a lot of unnecessary stress.
If the problem is in the street, this should be reported to the local council. However, if the problem is being caused by a pipe that is connected directly to the home, this is usually the responsibility of the homeowner.
Detached property
If the blocked drain is either inside of or within the boundaries of the property, it is the owner’s responsibility to get it cleared and repaired if necessary.
Semi-detached and terraced properties
Properties that are connected will often share pipes and drains; in which case this will be the joint responsibility of the property owners. Any costs involved should be equally split. The exception to this is if one side has caused the problem, in which case it will be the individual responsibility of the owner. If it is not obvious what has caused the problem, getting a professional plumber or trained specialist to determine the problem may be required.
Flats
The management company for the building is responsible for all maintenance, up to and including the boundary, and this should be clearly stated in the contract and a copy held by all residents in case of any problems arising.
The cost of repairing a blocked drain can vary depending on the problem. You may need to call a plumber if the blockage is inside your home, like this boilers Gloucester based company www.hprservicesltd.com/gloucester-boilers/boiler-service-gloucester/ that covers heating to pipes, to water issues.
A few years ago, heavy rainfall caused mass disruption to badly affected areas across the country, including Sleaford in Lincolnshire, which saw rainwater flowing through the village centre. The result of this adverse weather meant drains were put under extreme pressure and local residents were unable to flush their toilets.
The causes of blockages
Residents can reduce the risk of a blocked pipe or drain by ensuring only wastewater, human waste and toilet paper are washed away. Everything else should be put in the bin. Fat and oil from cooking, along with baby wipes and cleaning wipes, are often the cause of blockages. Even those that state they are flushable are often the cause of the problem.
