Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council

How do I know if my drain / private sewer is blocked?

If your drain or private sewer becomes blocked it may cause waste water /sewage to overflow from your inspection chamber covers or drainage gulley's outside, or cause toilets and sinks to empty slowly. You may be able to smell sewage either inside your house or outside. Sometimes with a private sewer which is carrying waste water away from a number of properties your neighbour who is located closer to the blockage may know there is a problem before you do.