Report problems to your landlord or letting agent
You must report any problems with private drains to your landlord or letting agent as soon as possible.
Causes of blocked drains
Most drainage problems are caused by items being put down sinks and toilets that should not be there.
Only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down toilets. Do not flush wet wipes or sanitary products because they do not break down like toilet paper.
Who is responsible for drains?
Blockages caused by unsuitable items
As the tenant, you are responsible for blockages caused by flushing or disposing of unsuitable items.
If this causes a blockage, you will need to arrange for it to be cleared and tell your landlord or letting agent.
Responsibility for drains and sewers
- the homeowner or landlord is responsible for defects in drains within their property boundary
- the person who causes an inappropriate blockage may be responsible for clearing it
- sewers serving more than one property may be the responsibility of the sewerage company
Your sewerage company may be different from the company that supplies your clean water. Check your water bill to find out which company you need to contact.
- if your water supplier is Affinity Water, contact Thames Water about sewer problems
- if your water supplier is Anglian Water, contact Anglian Water about sewer problems
Read Anglian Water's guide to sewer and drain responsibilities.
Flooding
Flooding from private sewers or drains
If your private drains or sewers are overflowing, you will need a drainage specialist to investigate and clear the blockage.
If you are unsure whether the blockage is in a public or private sewer, contact your sewerage company. They should be able to identify who is responsible.
Find an approved drainage specialist
Flooding from internal pipework
Turn off the water supply at the mains and contact your landlord or letting agent and a plumber.