When it comes to drainage problems, the UK is no exception. Every day, more than 3 million litres of water leak from our water mains, which is equivalent to 1.245 olympic swimming pools. In addition, many of our drains are clogged with roots growing into them.
Blockages in drains
A blockage in a drain can be a problem for a landlord or tenant, especially if it is causing flooding in their property. If a blockage occurs in the drain, tenants should contact their landlord immediately to avoid further damage. If the blockage is caused by a clogged sewer, a DIY repair guide may be the answer. You may also want to consider buying HomeServe insurance, which covers blocked drains.
A blocked drain can be the result of a number of different causes. Tree roots, dead leaves, and other debris can all cause blockages. If the blockage is in an indoor drain, other common causes include heavy objects and sanitary products. Hair can also cause blockages.
Roots growing into pipes
One of the most common reasons for blocked drains is tree roots growing into the pipes. Tree roots grow underground to take in nutrients and water from the soil below. This is unlike grass which has a thin root system that stays near the surface. However, when trees grow in drainage pipes, they can cause structural damage and stubborn blockages.
If you suspect that a tree has invaded a drainage system, it’s wise to call a plumber. Tree roots can wreak havoc on your pipes, and they can also damage plumbing equipment. However, the good news is that if you spot a small invasion of roots before it affects too many pipes, it won’t cost you thousands of pounds.
Sinkholes
Sinkholes are natural phenomena that often occur near construction sites. They can affect the surrounding environment and pose a risk to residents. In the UK, a significant number of cases are reported from the south east, where dense property development is a major factor in the formation of these sunkholes.
Sinkholes are deep depressions in the ground caused by erosion and dissolution of the ground beneath. They are usually located in areas where the bedrock is composed of soluble rocks. They can swallow entire buildings and vehicles.
Land subsidence as a threat to drainage systems
The UK is home to extensive infrastructure networks. These networks are constructed using various materials that are susceptible to geohazards and climate change. Increasing demand on these assets has also contributed to the problem. As a result, the failure of one asset can lead to the failure of another. The UK is particularly vulnerable to clay-related subsidence, which can seriously damage buried infrastructure networks.
Although land subsidence is an ongoing problem, some measures can be taken to reduce its impact on drainage systems. One of these measures is to build sea walls. These structures must be extra large to prevent water from entering. However, raising ground can take decades.
Checklists for clearing drains after a storm
In a storm, you can expect debris to accumulate around drains. This can block the flow of water and cause puddles and back-ups. Cleaning away debris will speed up the drainage process. A thorough inspection is recommended for blocked drains.
Depending on the drainage system in your area, you may need to contact the water sewerage company to clear your blocked drains. Some of these companies are Anglian Water, Yorkshire Water, and Severn Trent. In some areas, you may be able to clear your blocked drains yourself with a pressure hose.
Out of hours support for private drains
If you’ve ever had a blocked drain, you know that you’re not alone. Odd smells can occur, and sinks can take a long time to drain. You may wonder if the blockage is your fault or someone else’s. If you’ve tried to clear it yourself, you may have had success, but if not, you should contact a drainage contractor, plumber, or insurance company.
Private drains in the UK are the responsibility of the property owner. The council can help you with problems related to private drains, and can also provide advice about drain maintenance. However, some problems occur outside of a property and the council can’t provide support. If the problem is within the property, the owner will need to pay for the work. Alternatively, the council can order improvements to a drain as part of a building insurance policy.
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