Drainage

The Government has brought in changes which transfered private sewers that connect to the public sewage system to the water and sewage companies. For more details please visit the DEFRA website.

Knowing who is responsible for clearing a blocked drain or sewer has been much simplified by the new regulations. If the pipe serves only your property, and is within your property, it will be your responsibilty. Any sewer will be the responsibilty of South West Water.

For definitions of Drains, Sewers, Public Sewers and surface water drainage please go to the links to the right or above marked ‘What are Drains & Sewers’

Private drains that are broken, blocked or inadequate can cause a public health nuisance to people nearby. We have powers to require people to repair and/or unblock their drains.

What do I do if my Drain is blocked?

It is your responsibility to arrange for the blockage to be cleared either by you or by contacting a drainage engineer in the yellow pages under "Drain and Pipe Clearing" www.yell.com

What do I do if my Sewer is blocked?

Contact South West Water on 0800 169 1144 (remember to record their reference number).

What do I do if a Public Sewer is blocked?

Contact South West Water on 0800 1691144 (remember to record their reference number in case you need to contact them again about the problem).

I live in a Council owned property

Contact Housing Repairs on 01395 516551 who will arrange for the blockage to be cleared.

I live in a property previously owned by Council

If you have bought your council house you should contact Housing Repairs in the first instance. However if the drain blocks regularly please also contact us using the details at the top of this page.

I live in a rented property

Contact your landlord in the first instance to arrange for the blockage to be cleared. If the problem is not remedied within 7 days contact us using the details at the top of this page.

Clearing a blocked drain

If you are sure that it's only your house that is affected, you will probably need to contact a drain clearing specialist. Yell.com They usually try to clear the blockage first by using a high pressure water jet. If you are not sure if it's only your drain that is blocked or if you need advice on choosing a specialist contractor then contact South West Water on 0800 1691144.

Page last updated on 25 November 2011