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Overflowing Drains: What You Need to Know

Overflowing Drains: What You Need to Know

Overflowing garden drains can be a messy and stressful problem. Whether caused by heavy rain, debris, or blockages, it’s important to address the issue promptly to prevent damage to your garden and property. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for homeowners in England on how to deal with an overflowing garden drain.

Overflowing drains can pose health risks due to contaminated water. Make sure that you wear rubber gloves and waterproof boots, avoid direct contact with the water, and keep children and pets away from the area.

Identifying the cause

Start by looking for obvious causes, such as leaves, soil, and other garden debris clogging drains; heavy rainfall overwhelming the drainage systems; or structural issues such as collapsed pipes or root intrusion, which can obstruct water flow.

Clear visible debris

If it looks as though the overflow is due to surface debris, that is good news as the problem can probably be sorted fairly easily. As long as it is safe to do so, use a rake or gloved hands to remove leaves, twigs, and other obstructions around the drain. If standing water is blocking access to the drain, you can use a bucket to bail it out.

Use a plunger

If the blockage is in the drainpipe itself, a plunger could help dislodge minor blockages. Place the plunger over the drain opening, making sure that you get a tight seal. Push and pull vigorously to create suction and break up the blockage.

Try a drain snake or rod

For more stubborn blockages or those that appear to be deeper in the pipe, a drain snake or rod might do the trick. Insert the snake into the drain and turn the handle to break up or retrieve the blockage before flushing the drain with water to check if the blockage has been cleared.

Check for structural issues

If the drain remains blocked or overflows repeatedly, there could be a more serious issue such as collapsed or cracked pipes, or tree roots growing into the drainage system. These problems typically require professional intervention.

Know your responsibilities

Under English law, homeowners are generally responsible for private drains on their property. However, shared drains and sewers are typically maintained by the local water company. Check your property’s deeds or consult your local council if you’re unsure. If the drain that is overflowing is close to your boundary, it could still be due to a blockage in the public drains; contact your water board before contacting an independent plumber to determine if the drain is your responsibility, or theirs.

Contact a professional

If DIY methods don’t work or the issue persists and the water board has confirmed that it is your responsibility, call a local drainage specialist or plumber as soon as you can. Many companies in England offer 24/7 emergency services and will offer advice for free before you commit to repairs.

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