Drainage guides and advice

Most of the calls I take start with the same few questions. Why does it smell? Is this my problem or my neighbour's? What is this going to cost? People want straight answers before they decide what to do, and they do not always get them.

So I have written them down. These guides explain what is usually going on, what you can safely check yourself and when it is worth getting someone in. You will not find prices here, because no honest price can be given without seeing the drain. What you will find is an explanation of what makes a job bigger or smaller, so you can ask the right questions of whoever you choose to call.

Each guide links to the relevant drainage services if you need more detail on a particular job, and you can always get in touch if your situation is not covered.

A word on safety: drain chambers can be deep, covers are heavy and drain gases build up in confined spaces. Never climb into a chamber, and keep children and pets away from any open cover.

The guides are grouped loosely by question. Some explain costs: what decides the price of a survey, an unblocking visit or a repair. Others deal with symptoms, such as smells, rats and roots. Two cover practical first steps: what to do when an outside drain blocks, and how to work out who is responsible for the pipe. Read whichever matches your situation; each one stands on its own.

None of the guides are a substitute for seeing your drain, but they should help you understand what you are dealing with and talk to whoever you call with confidence.