The Role of the Local Authority

The Environmental Health Officer will determine the extent of the problem, the number of properties involved and the action required to resolve the problem. This usually results in either informal or formal action being taken.

Informal Action

We will endeavour to inform users of the appropriate action to take. E.g. use rods to clear blockage, or contact a local specialist drainage company.

Formal Action

A Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976 Notice would require you together with the other affected persons to remove obstructions from the private sewer within 48 hours. The Notice will indicate all parties involved. If the Notice is not complied with, the work will be completed by the Council and the costs for the work plus any administrative fees will be charged.

A Building Act 1984, Section 59 Notice would require you together with the other affected persons to repair damaged parts of a private sewer. The Notice will indicate all other parties involved. If the Notice is not complied with, the work will be completed by the Council and the cost for the works plus any administrative fees will be charged. Rights of appeal are also set out within the notice.

Problems relating to public sewers must be dealt with by the Drainage Authority. They can be contacted on 0845 7145 145.

 

From 1 October 2011 Anglian Water will be taking over responsibility for practically all private sewers and most drains outside property boundaries that connect to the public sewer network. This applies to both residential and commercial properties and both foul and surface water systems although surface water drainage that runs to soakaways and ditches etc will be unaffected.

Therefore from 1 October 2011 if you are affected by a blocked sewer ring Anglian Water on 08457 145145.