What should I do if my drain is overflowing outside? +
If an external drain or manhole is overflowing, check whether it is a shared drain serving multiple properties. Since October 2011, lateral drains and public sewers became the responsibility of your water company, so contact them first if the blockage is beyond your property boundary. If it is a private drain within your boundary, call a drainage engineer in Burntwood to clear the blockage.
What is the NADC and why does it matter? +
The NADC — National Association of Drainage Contractors — is the leading UK trade body for drainage professionals. NADC members must demonstrate competence, carry appropriate insurance, and adhere to a code of practice. Choosing an NADC-registered drainage engineer in Burntwood gives you confidence that the work will be carried out to professional standards with proper equipment.
Can I find a drainage engineer near me in Burntwood right now? +
For sewage backups and flooding drains, we prioritise your call as an emergency.
Who is responsible for drains — me or the water company? +
You are responsible for private drains within your property boundary. Since October 2011, lateral drains (the section that runs from your boundary to the public sewer) and the public sewer itself are the responsibility of your local water company. If a blockage is beyond your property boundary, contact your water company first — they will clear it at no charge. A drainage engineer in Burntwood can help identify where the blockage is.
Do slow-draining sinks always mean a blocked drain? +
Not always. A slow-draining sink is often caused by a localised blockage in the waste trap or the pipe immediately beneath the sink — hair, soap scum and grease are common culprits. However, if multiple fixtures are draining slowly or you notice gurgling sounds, the problem is likely further down in the main drain. A drainage engineer in Burntwood can distinguish between a simple waste pipe blockage and a more serious drain issue.
What should I do if sewage is backing up into my home in Burntwood? +
Stop using all taps, toilets and appliances that discharge into the drains immediately. Open windows for ventilation as sewage gases are hazardous. Do not attempt to clear the blockage yourself if raw sewage is involved — it carries serious health risks including E. coli and other bacteria. Call an emergency drainage engineer in Burntwood straight away and keep children and pets away from the affected area.