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Drain problems - drains serving properties

Local authorities are not responsible for drains serving private properties or land. The maintenance and repair of these drains is the sole responsibility of the property owner or where it’s a shared drain, United Utilities.

Know your drainage responsibilities

Property owners are responsible for drains located within their property boundary that serve only that property, as well as drains connecting to septic tanks. The image below, from the United Utilities guide to pipes, drains and sewers, illustrates the point at which a drain remains the homeowner’s responsibility and where that responsibility ends.

Typical sewer pipe responsibility

Typical sewer pipe responsibility text only version (MS Word, 29KB) (opens in new window)

United Utilities responsibilities

United Utilities is responsible for:

  • Shared sewer pipes (also known as shared drainage pipes), regardless of whether they run inside or outside a private property boundary.
  • Pipes where a private drain continues beyond the property boundary, connecting to the public sewer network.

If you experience issues with shared sewer pipes or drains beyond your property boundary, contact United Utilities directly for assistance.

For blockages or damage to drains that fall under your responsibility, you should:

  • Contact a professional drainage company to carry out repairs or clearance.
  • Check with your home insurer to see if the cost is covered under your policy.
  • Act promptly to prevent further damage or potential enforcement action.

If your property uses a septic tank, you must maintain it. This includes regular emptying and making sure it operates safely without causing pollution.

Homeowners also need to follow environmental regulations by getting the right permits or registrations for their septic system. These permits confirm your system meets legal standards and helps protect local watercourses and groundwater.

Failing to maintain your septic tank or obtain the necessary permits can lead to enforcement action and costly repairs

For full guidance: 

Contact United Utilities

Contact United Utilities

Contact Building Control 

BuildingControl@cheshireeast.gov.uk

01270 375256

Building Control
C/O Delamere House
Delamere Street
Crewe
Cheshire
CW1 2LL

Page last reviewed: 04 December 2025