Blocked drains and other drainage and sewerage problems are usually the responsibility of property owners, water and sewerage authorities, and highway authorities.
Drains
The drains and internal pipes within a property that carry household waste are normally the property owner's (or landlord's) responsibility up until the boundary of the property where they connect to public sewers.
Contact your water company for advice and help dealing with flooding or blockages. There may be charges that apply for carrying out work to private drains.
Gullies and drains on public highways are usually the responsibility of Hertfordshire County Council.
Sewers
Water companies are responsible for public sewers. These are usually in roads or public open spaces, but may run through private gardens.
- Anglian Water is the company for most properties in North Hertfordshire
- Thames Water covers some areas in the southern part of the district
You can confirm who your water company is by checking your water bill.
The company has a right of access to sewers for maintenance. If the company carries out work on sewers on your land they must follow a code of practice, which is available from the company.