Blocked household drains are inconvenient and can be a potential health hazard. Drain blockages are preventable.
We aren't responsible for the drainage within the borough.
Common causes of drain blockages
Common causes include:
- pouring cooking fat, oils and grease down drains can solidify and be difficult to remove
- detergent scaling, particularly in hard water areas
- flushing paper and cloth products down the toilet can form a solid mass and stop the flow of water, this includes:
- disposable nappies
- sanitary towels
- cotton wool buds
- newspapers
- pouring cement and plaster down drains as these can set rock hard in the drain
- pouring waste oil from motor vehicles into drains - also, it is illegal to do so
- collapsed or damaged pipes.
Who's responsible for a blockage
Thames Water are responsible for the maintenance of:
- all below-ground shared drains
- some private drains but only when they pass beyond the boundary of your property
Drain clearance
Thames Water will also be able to offer a drain-clearing service (chargeable) for individuals with a blocked private drain. This service is available 24 hours, 365 days a year.
You can contact Thames Water on 0800 316 9800
Alternatively, you can select a specialist contractor from the telephone directory. Be sure to enquire about hourly rates and call-out charges as these can be expensive, particularly at weekends.
When to contact us
We can get involved with blocked drains if:
- you have a private drain, and
- are unable to deal with the problem
In these cases, we are able to use enforcement powers to clear drains and carry out any repairs.