Sewer blockages and flooding

The most frequent cause of sewer flooding is a blockage within the sewerage system or a collapsed section of pipework.

However, in some circumstances flooding may be a result of hydraulic overloading, which is where the volume of wastewater entering the sewerage system exceeds the capacity of the pipework.

There are several other causes of flooding. To identify who may be responsible for addressing this, please see the information below.

Public sewer flooding

If a problem arises from the public sewer network then it is likely to be our responsibility. We will investigate the cause of the flooding and where possible will take steps to reduce the risk of further flooding. If you suspect flooding from a public sewer, please contact our Customer Centre on 0845 9200 800 (Minicom: 0845 7200 898).

Highway flooding

The Highways Authority is responsible for maintaining road gullies and the connections to our public sewer. In some areas they also own the surface water sewer. If the gully in the carriageway is unable to take rainwater away, this may be due to a blocked gully or insufficient highway drainage. Please contact your local council who will arrange further inspection.

River flooding

If flooding arises from a river and there is no evidence of foul debris, please contact your local authority as a starting point as it may be a land drainage issue. It could also be the responsibility of the riverbank owner.

For larger rivers, it may be the responsibility of the Environment Agency.

Groundwater seepage

If you are experiencing flooding in an internal cellar, this may be groundwater seepage following heavy rainfall. In this instance, it is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Land drainage

If flooding arises from land drainage - for example, where a field is waterlogged and water is flooding off the land - please contact the Environment Agency. This will need to be resolved by the landowner, possibly in conjunction with the local authority.