Drainage issues

There are a variety of drainage issues you may have queries about. Some of these we can help with, but for others, you will need to approach a different organisation.

Report now

You are responsible for the drain for your property.

If your neighbour will not clear their blocked drain, we can serve an enforcement notice so that they have to take remedial action.

To report your neighbour’s blocked drain, you will need:

your name, address and contact details
where the drain is located
when the problem started

Once we receive your report, we will:

acknowledge your report within three days
visit the location
resolve the problem

Report now

We can investigate drainage issues in rural areas if there is spillage, overflow or odour from septic tanks, cesspits and mini treatment works.

To report a rural drainage issue, you will need:

your name, address and contact details
where the issue is located
when the problem started

Once we receive your report, we will:

acknowledge your report within three days
visit the location
resolve the problem

You can get guidance from GOV.UK on small sewage discharge, which covers septic tanks, cesspits and mini treatment works.

Blocked drains on the road or pavement

You need to report blocked drains on the road or pavement to Essex County Council.

Blocked sewers

You need to report blocked sewers to Anglian Water.

Broken drain or manhole covers

You should report a broken drain or manhole cover to Anglian Water.

Internal flooding and watercourse issues

You need to contact Essex County Council flood and water management if you have:

issues with your property flooding internally
watercourse issues, such as blocked ditches or culverts