Blocked Drains and Sewers
Summary
A locked or damaged drain or gully is usually indicated by a toilet that is backing up, overflowing drains or foul smells in the area around drains.
It is the responsibility of the owner-occupier to maintain and clear a private drain/sewer. If the property is let then it is the landlord's responsibility. If you live in a row of houses then the problem could be a shared one.
The council has a statutory duty in the interests of public health to ensure that blocked and foul-smelling private drains are cleared and, where appropriate, to recharge the householders for this service. Any recharge is apportioned equally to all households feeding into the sewer up to the point that it is blocked and follows the serving of a notice.
Further Information
See our main Blocked Drains and Sewers page.