Blocked Sewer Drains in Sydney: Who’s Responsible?

Blocked sewer drains are a common problem that homeowners and businesses in Sydney face. When this happens, it can cause significant inconvenience and even damage to the property. However, one of the most common questions that people have is who is responsible for fixing a blocked sewer drain. In this article, we will discuss the responsibilities of homeowners and local councils in Sydney and what to do when you encounter a blocked sewer drain.

Homeowner’s Responsibility

As a homeowner in Sydney, it’s your responsibility to ensure that the pipes on your property are well-maintained and in good condition. This includes the sewer pipes that connect to the main sewer line. If you experience a blocked sewer drain, you will need to hire a licensed plumber to investigate the problem and fix it. The plumber will use tools such as a pipe camera to investigate the blockage and determine the best course of action.

Council’s Responsibility

Local councils in Sydney are responsible for the main sewer lines that run beneath public areas such as streets and footpaths. If the blockage is in the main sewer line, it’s the council’s responsibility to fix it. However, if the blockage is in the pipe that connects your property to the main sewer line, it’s your responsibility to fix it.

What to Do When You Encounter a Blocked Sewer Drain

If you encounter a blocked sewer drain, it’s important to take action quickly to prevent further damage to your property. Here are the steps to take:

1. Turn off the water supply: The first thing you need to do is turn off the water supply to prevent any more water from entering the pipes.
2. Call a licensed plumber: Next, you need to call a licensed plumber who can investigate the problem and provide a solution. They will use tools such as a pipe camera to locate the blockage and determine the best course of action.
3. Determine responsibility: If the blockage is in the main sewer line, contact your local council to report the problem. If the blockage is on your property, it’s your responsibility to contact a plumber and get the problem fixed.

4. Fix the problem: Once you have determined who is responsible for fixing the problem, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your property.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when it comes to blocked sewer drains in Sydney, it’s important to understand the responsibilities of both homeowners and local councils. If you encounter a blocked sewer drain, it’s important to take quick action and hire a licensed plumber to investigate the problem. By following these steps, you can prevent further damage to your property and ensure that the blockage is fixed promptly.

For more information on plumbing services, including pipe relining and pipe relining cost, visit Streamline Pipes’ website. You can also learn more about the plumbing steps involved in fixing broken sewer pipes or blocked drains by contacting their team.