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Posted: Mon Nov 11, 2002 7:05 pm
by Sue
Please can you help?
Have a problem with rainwater coming back up pipe, towards my property. I believe the pipe is blocked, but not on my property (know this because have had hose up there). Have had all the relevant authorities out, but no one will take responsibility .
2 Questions :
1 Who is responsible for the pipe off my property?
2 No one knows where this pipe leads to, how can I find out?
Many thanks
Sue
Posted: Mon Nov 11, 2002 9:46 pm
by 84-1093879891
Ownership of the pipeline is difficult - it may be you, it may be the local authority or it may be you and the neighbours, ie, a common sewer. The LA should have plans of your area showing who owns what and where it goes, but I know from experience that this isn't always the case. Still; that has to be your first port of call - the Tech Services Dept at your local council.
I know you've said that you've already spoken to all relevant authorities, but until the TSD say, in writing, that the pipeline isn't their responsibility and does not appear on their records, then you must pursue them.
To trace just where the pipeline goes, you have to be prepared to stump up a small fortune. You could get lucky and find it on the local plans or with the aid of drain tracing dye, or you could run up a second mortgage using CCTV and/or radio-tracking systems, both of which will be available to you via local drainage contractor.
It may be worth speaking to the survey department of your bank/building society, as they sometimes authorise investigative work and charge it against your insurance policy, and it's worth a call to your local drainage company to see what sort of money they charge for their time. You may find that the local council DLO are cheaper, but that's not always the case.
I know this doesn't offer much hope, but drains are notoriously difficult, not least because they can't be seen. The age of your property also has implications, particularly if it's pre-1936. Speak again to the council, and, if they are adamant it's not their propblem, get it in writing and ask them for a recommendation as to where to go next. They'll know who are reliable and who are the clowns in your area.
Good luck!