Differences between sanitary sewers and storm sewers
The question “What is the difference between sanitary sewer and a storm sewer?” is often asked and this article seeks to clarify this.
Water and waste products from your toilet, shower, dishwasher, and sink go into the sanitary sewer system for treatment at a Wastewater Plant before discharge into the Local Canal or river.
Rainwater running off your roof and town streets goes into the local storm drainage system and then directly into the local river or Canal and eventually the main regional rivers on their way to the sea.
OK I understand that so Who should I contact if I have a sewer backup in my house?
Before contacting a plumber or sewer service contractor you could call your local council. If the backup occurs during working hours (typically 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.) you will be able to speak to someone immediately.
A council employee will often be sent out to determine the location of the blockage at no charge to you. If it is determined that the blockage is not in the councils main drain, the customer does not have a City repair, then it is the responsibility of the property owner for removing the blockage at their own expense. For this you will need to contact a drains contractor such as Dynorod.
How do I prevent a sewer backup so that I can avoid these charges?
Call the council as soon as you notice slow-running drains and they will come out. If they find a sewer blockage, they will open it. If the problem is in your portion of sewer lateral, call your plumber or a drains contractor to clear the blockage before it gets bad enough to become a backup and cause damage.