When to report a blocked or flooded sewer
If you see fluid coming out of a clogged manhole cover and it’s creating some sort of flood, then there’s probably a build-up in the sewer that’s stopping the contents from moving.
We really appreciate your help in reporting problems to us. We need to know where to find the blocked sewage pipe or sewer line so we can solve the problem before it gets worse and affects people’s homes and the environment.
You can use our postcode checker to see if the problem is in our working area, and find out who is responsible for flooding and who to call if there’s a flood.
When you come across sewer flooding, be sure to follow this advice as well:
- Contact a doctor immediately if you are suffering from symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Make sure children and pets are kept far away from areas submerged in sewer flood water.
- Frequently wash your hands.
- Any food that has come into contact with the sewer flood water should be thrown away – this includes any vegetables being grown in your garden.
- Crops should not be grown on soil that has been flooded for an extra 12 months after the problem is sorted.
- Wash kitchen surfaces and storage areas with food-safe disinfectant.
- Wear protective clothing that should include a mask and rubber gloves when cleaning around areas that have been submerged in sewer flood water.
- Use a mild disinfectant to decontaminate any shoes that you’re wearing during a flood.
- Before using any appliances that have been submerged in sewer flood water, get the advice of an electricity and/or a gas supplier.
You can find more advice and guidance on what to do if you property is flooded here, as well as learn when you can claim a guaranteed standards payment when affected by external flooding by clicking this link.
Is the problem you have seen to do with a blocked drain instead? This guide will help you understand what to do next in this situation.
