We will investigate any complaints relating to drainage, determine the nature of the problem, and decide who is responsible for any further action.
Public highways
If you come across a blocked gully or drain on a public highway, or a broken drain cover, we can usually remedy it. In general, we can sort out problems on residential roads, although some A-roads are not the responsibility of the Council.
Our drain-sucking machines will also visit every road at least once a year to make sure the drains are clear.
If a gully appears to be blocked after heavy rain, please give it some time for the water to drain away before reporting it. Sometimes gullies are unable to cope with large amounts of water over a short time period.
How to report a problem
You can report by mail, phone, email or online form:
What happens next
If a blocked drain or gully on a public highway is likely to cause flooding, we will clear it within 24 hours of the problem being reported to us.
If a gully cover is damaged or missing, we will make safe within 24 hours of reporting.
Permanent repairs may take much longer as new materials need to be ordered.
Private land
We cannot unblock or correct defective drains on private land but we can help establish who is responsible, whether it is a private owner or Thames Water for example.
Either contact Thames Water, or ring our Environmental Health department on 020 8921 8199.
Emergencies
If you need to make an enquiry or report a problem outside of office hours please telephone us on 020 8854 8888.