Sewer Repairs FAQs

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Generally speaking, you’re typically responsible for drain maintenance within the boundaries of your property, whereas the sewer responsibilities generally fall to the sewerage company for lateral drains that are outside of property boundaries and sewers. While most sewers are now publicly owned, there are still instances of private sewers that are unadopted. If your property is connected to one of these private sewers, you may be responsible for its maintenance.

A drain is a pipe that facilitates the drainage of water and waste from a building and any associated structures, such as a garage. 

A lateral drain is a segment of pipe that transports wastewater away from your property to a sewer. Typically, it is situated outside your property boundary, often beneath a public pavement or road. If you share a sewer with your neighbour, a lateral drain may even run under your property. 

Sewers are responsible for collecting water and waste from the drains of multiple buildings. Most sewers are publicly owned and are maintained by your local water company, although some private sewers still exist. If you are not connected to a sewer, you may rely on cesspools, septic tanks, or treatment plants, which means you would not incur sewer charges from a sewerage company. 

When it comes to drain maintenance, you are responsible for the upkeep and repairs of any drains within the boundaries of your property—these are referred to as your private drains. However, you aren't obliged to maintain or repair lateral drains shared with your neighbour, as those fall under the responsibility of your water company. 

In some cases, you may be required to have insurance for the drain leading to your property. It’s wise to verify with your building insurance provider whether this applies to you. 

Sewers and lateral drains that connect to the public network used to be the owner's responsibility, but now most of them are taken care of by local water companies. Should you encounter any issues with your sewer or lateral drain, such as a blockage, it’s best to contact your local water company for assistance. 

If you live in a complex with several properties, like a block of flats or a caravan site, you may have a private sewer or lateral drain. In this case, if you own a property, you are accountable for the costs associated with maintaining and repairing this private sewer. If the sewer services multiple properties, all owners are jointly responsible for these sewer responsibilities.