Reporting a problem with your rented property

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.  

Make a water drainage enquiry