Blocked drain in Devon – Who is responsible?
A guide for Devon homeowners
When a drain becomes blocked, one of the first questions many homeowners ask is: who is responsible for fixing it? Is it your job, or does it fall to the water company? Understanding the difference between private and public drainage systems can help you avoid confusion, delays and unnecessary costs.
At Drain Wizard, we regularly help homeowners across Devon navigate drainage responsibilities and get fast, effective solutions in place.
General rule of thumb
Responsibility for a blocked drain depends on where the blockage is located and who uses the drain. Here’s a simple breakdown:
- Private drains (within your property boundary)
If the drain serves only your home and is located within your property, you are responsible for maintaining and repairing it. - Shared drains (serving multiple properties)
If the drain is shared with neighbours, such as in a terrace or semi-detached home, it is usually the responsibility of the local water company. This applies even if the shared section is within your boundary. - Public sewers
These are always the responsibility of the water company. They typically run under roads or public land and serve multiple properties. In Devon you should contact South West Water.
Since 2011, water companies in England have taken on responsibility for most shared drains and public sewers, relieving homeowners of many repair costs. However, it’s still important to confirm ownership before arranging repairs.
How to check who owns the drain
If you’re unsure whether a drain is private or shared, a professional drainage engineer can help. The most reliable way to check is:
- CCTV drain survey
A camera inspection can trace the route of the drain and identify where the blockage is located. - Drainage map
This shows the layout of your drainage system and helps determine which sections are private and which are shared or public.
Having this information avoids disputes with neighbours or delays in contacting the water company. It also ensures that any repair work is carried out by the correct party.
Why it matters
Knowing who is responsible for a blocked drain can save you time and money. If you arrange repairs for a drain that isn’t yours, you may not be reimbursed. On the other hand, delaying action on a private drain could lead to further damage and higher costs.
At Drain Wizard, we offer honest advice and clear assessments to help you understand your drainage system and take the right steps.
Local support across Devon
Whether you live in Exeter, Sidmouth, Honiton or anywhere else in Devon, our team is here to help. We provide:
- Fast response for blocked drains
- CCTV surveys to identify ownership and cause
- Clear reports and recommendations
- No hidden fees or call-out charges
Unsure who should fix your blocked drain?
If you’re dealing with a blockage and not sure who’s responsible, call Drain Wizard today on 01392 461670. We’ll provide expert advice and a fast resolution, so you can get back to normal without the stress.