Prime Drainage Solutions · Advice Centre
Drainage Advice & Guides
Practical answers to the drainage questions homeowners, landlords and property managers ask most. Learn how to spot a blocked drain, what causes bad smells and overflowing gullies, when a CCTV survey may help, and what to consider before arranging repairs.
Find advice by topic
Choose a topic to get a clearer idea of what might be happening, what you can safely check and when professional help may be needed.
Featured guide: Why is my drain blocked?
Slow drains, gurgling toilets or recurring blockages? Read our practical guide to seven common causes, safe first steps and when to call a drainage professional.
Read the blocked drain guide →
Latest drainage guides
Explore our latest practical advice on blocked drains, drainage inspections and repairs.
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Who Is Responsible for a Blocked Drain? Homeowner, Landlord or Water Company?
Not sure who is responsible for a blocked drain? Learn how responsibility usually splits between homeowners, landlords and water companies in England.
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Why Does My Outside Drain Smell? Common Causes and What to Do
A bad smell from an outside drain can point to a blockage, dry trap or pipework fault. Learn what to check safely…
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Why Is My Drain Blocked? 7 Common Causes and What to Do
Discover seven common causes of blocked drains, from grease and wet wipes to tree roots and damaged pipes. Learn safe first steps…
Blocked drains
Slow sinks, gurgling toilets, standing water and overflowing outside drains can all point to a blockage. Learn about common causes and sensible first steps.
CCTV drain surveys
A camera survey can help investigate recurring blockages, suspected pipe damage and drainage concerns before buying or renovating a property.
Drain repairs & relining
Cracks, root ingress, displaced joints and repeated faults may need a closer inspection. Understand the repair options and questions to ask.
Bad smells & slow drainage
Unpleasant smells may come from trapped waste, a dry trap, poor ventilation or a drainage defect. Learn what to look for without dismantling pipework unnecessarily.
Landlords & property managers
Understand how to respond to tenant reports, record recurring issues and arrange appropriate inspections to help keep properties running smoothly.
Common Questions
What should I do if an outside drain is overflowing?
Keep people and pets away from contaminated water, avoid using connected fixtures if water is backing up indoors, and do not open or enter a chamber. If it is safe, note where the water is coming from and contact a drainage professional for advice.
Why does the blockage keep coming back?
Repeated blockages can be caused by grease or debris build-up, tree roots, damaged pipework, poor falls or displaced joints. Clearing the symptom may not resolve the underlying cause, so a suitable inspection may be recommended.
When is a CCTV drain survey useful?
A survey can help when problems recur, damage is suspected, or you need to understand the condition and layout of underground drains. The right approach depends on access, the symptoms and the condition of the system.
Can a damaged drain always be relined?
No. Relining may suit some defects, but collapsed, badly deformed or inaccessible pipework can require excavation or another repair method. An inspection helps determine which options are appropriate.
Who is responsible for a blocked drain?
Responsibility can depend on the location of the pipe, whether it serves one or multiple properties, and local water company rules. Check the relevant water company guidance or seek professional advice if responsibility is unclear.
Do I need to wait until a drain is fully blocked?
No. Slow drainage, repeated gurgling, persistent smells or water collecting around an inspection chamber can be early warning signs. Addressing them promptly may help prevent a more disruptive problem.
Latest drainage guides
New articles will appear here as they are published. We are building a useful library of practical advice on blocked drains, seasonal drainage problems, surveys, repairs and looking after rental properties.
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Who Is Responsible for a Blocked Drain? Homeowner, Landlord or Water Company?
Not sure who is responsible for a blocked drain? Learn how responsibility usually splits between homeowners, landlords and water companies in England.
-
Why Does My Outside Drain Smell? Common Causes and What to Do
A bad smell from an outside drain can point to a blockage, dry trap or pipework fault. Learn what to check safely and when…
-
Why Is My Drain Blocked? 7 Common Causes and What to Do
Discover seven common causes of blocked drains, from grease and wet wipes to tree roots and damaged pipes. Learn safe first steps and when…
Need help with a specific drainage issue? Our team works with homeowners, landlords and property managers across Dorset, Hampshire and the wider South of England.