Sewage backflow

thir13en

Hi,
I need some advice as the contractor is refusing to continue work as they believe it is my responsibility.

I'm the start of the run for the sewage and a month ago my neighbour had a blockage as a result it caused mine to block. I call themes water to get this cleared and explained it's 1935 property, which they agreed to take responsibility. On the day the contractor refused to clear the blockage as I was the start of the run and I would be responsible for my own drains. If the blockage is caused by my neighbour which subsequently is the main cause of my blockage. I believe they only clear the flow towards the flow towards the main sewage and didn't clear my flow at the time. I just want to know who responsible as they referring to the 2011 act saying it's my drains.

They did in the end clear my blockage, and said we do this for free with I appreciate, however the area wasn't disinfected and I need this disinfected but can't afford the bill. What shall I do?

Many thanks in advance

Cardew

Technically Thames Water are correct see; https://www.thameswater.co.uk/help/home-improvements/ownership-of-private-sewers-and-pumping-stations However commonsense dictates that Thames would have a responsibility in this case to clear the blockage in your drains.

I have not heard of people expecting the water company to disinfect. Thames are not normally responsible for the blockage of the sewer; their responsibility is to clear the blockage in the sewer. Can you claim on your house insurance?

Grumpy_chap

Thames Water are correct in terms of sewer ownership.

Thames Water will only disinfect if there has been a spillage / flood.  Has that occurred?  Even if it has, TW will probably not disinfect around a drain that is not theirs.

What are you expecting to be done as disinfection that makes you say you can't afford the bill?  It is an easy DIY task.