Drainage
What is the difference between a drain and a sewer?
- A private drain serves only one property.
- A sewer serves more than one property and may
be private or public.
Private or Public Sewers
Adopted Sewers are public sewers for which
United Utilities are responsible.
Sewers built before 1937 and serving more than
one dwelling are deemed to be public sewers and
are the responsibility of United Utilities.
Sewers built after 1937 and serving more than
one property are deemed to be private sewers and
are the shared responsibility of all those who take benefit from
them. This shared responsibility ends where the private sewer meets
the public sewer.
The Council's Drainage Powers
The Council has powers to intervene where there is a defect in a
private drain or sewer which is not being dealt with by
those responsible. The Council can serve legal notices and carry
out works in default if necessary. In such cases the Council
will not only charge for the cost of works but will also recover
administration costs.
Contact us using the details opposite.
Contact United Utilities on 0845 746 2200 or visit
the United
Utilities website.
The Council cannot require United
Utilities to maintain public sewers. However they do
have their own complaints procedure. If you are still unhappy with
their response you can contact WaterVoice or OFWAT.
Highway Drainage
For drains, ditches or gulleys on the highway,
please report the issue to our Highways department.
Polluted ditches or watercourses
Polluted ditches or watercourses should be reported to the
Environment Agency
incident desk on 0800 807060 (Freephone, 24 hour
service).
Please note that the Council no longer offers a
drain-clearing service.