Drain maintenance for older properties in East Devon – how to prevent costly repairs
Older homes across East Devon, including Sidmouth, Ottery St Mary and Honiton, often face recurring drainage issues. Ageing pipework, outdated layouts and years of wear and tear can lead to blockages, leaks and even structural damage if not properly maintained. The good news is that with a few proactive steps, you can keep your drains flowing freely and avoid expensive emergency repairs.
At Drain Wizard, we specialise in helping homeowners and landlords across East Devon protect their properties with affordable, preventative drainage care.
Common problems in older drainage systems
Older properties are more likely to experience:
- Cracked or collapsed pipes due to ground movement or corrosion
- Tree root ingress, especially in gardens with mature planting
- Poor water flow caused by narrow or misaligned pipework
- Build-up of fat, grease and debris over time
- Limited access points for inspection and cleaning
These issues can develop slowly and go unnoticed until they cause visible damage or unpleasant smells. That’s why regular maintenance is essential.
Top tips for preventing drain problems
Here are some simple but effective ways to keep your drainage system in good condition:
- Avoid pouring fats, oils or grease down sinks
- These substances harden inside pipes and cause blockages. Instead, dispose of them in the bin.
- Install drain guards to catch hair and debris
- Mesh guards over plugholes and gullies help prevent unwanted materials from entering the system.
- Schedule regular CCTV drain surveys
- A professional inspection can spot early signs of damage before they become serious. It’s especially useful for older homes with limited access.
- Repair minor cracks before they escalate
- Small cracks can be sealed or patched easily. Left untreated, they may lead to full pipe collapse or water ingress.
- Check external drains and soakaways
- Make sure water is draining properly around your property. Standing water or slow drainage could indicate a hidden issue.
Why maintenance matters
Proactive drain care is far more cost-effective than dealing with an emergency. A blocked or collapsed drain can lead to:
- Flooding inside or outside the property
- Damp and mould growth
- Damage to foundations or garden structures
- Health risks from sewage exposure
- Disruption to daily life and expensive call-out fees
Emergency drain call-outs, especially at night or on weekends, are always more expensive than routine maintenance. By investing in regular checks and cleaning, you can avoid these problems and enjoy peace of mind.
Local help from Drain Wizard
At Drain Wizard, we offer tailored maintenance plans for homes and businesses across East Devon. Whether you live in a period cottage in Sidmouth or a Victorian terrace in Honiton, our engineers understand the unique challenges of older drainage systems.
We use high-pressure jetting, CCTV surveys and non-invasive repair techniques to keep your drains in top condition. Our service is friendly, fast and affordable – with no hidden fees.
Call Drain Wizard for expert advice and maintenance
If you want to protect your property from drainage issues, call Drain Wizard today on 01392 461670. We’ll help you choose the right maintenance plan and keep your drains flowing smoothly all year round.