all things drainage

03/10/2026

If you’ve lifted your drain cover and found the channel full of shingle and mud, it means surface water and debris is entering the system where it shouldn’t.

This usually happens when rainwater gullies or soakaways have broken or collapsed or rats have moved in, allowing soil and gravel to wash into the pipework. Over time, this build up blocks the flow and can cause blockages or foul smells.

It’s important not to ignore it. The drain may need jetting and CCTV inspection to locate the source of the problem before it worsens.

01/10/2026

People don't often give a second through to their drains until something goes wrong.

Before the cold weather sets in clean the grates on your gullies, lift the chamber covers and remove any leaves, rots and debris and run taps and flush toilets to ensure it is all running fine.

30/09/2026

Heavy rain on the way?

A few quick checks can prevent flooding and blocked drains:

• Clear leaves and debris from gullies
• Make sure drain covers are seated properly
• Check downpipes for blockages
• Clean driveway/patio channels
• Remove anything that could blow into drains

If you spot standing water or slow drainage, get it checked before the bad weather hits.

Call Mark on 07759 692989

19/09/2026

Cracked or broken manhole lids or frames might seem harmless, but they can quickly lead to bigger problems. Rainwater, soil and rubbish enter the system directly, overloading drains and increasing flood risk. Gaps also give rats and other pests easy access, and damaged lids can collapse under weight, a real safety hazard for people, pets and vehicles. Replacing a faulty lid early is far cheaper than repairing a flooded or damaged drain later.

08/09/2026

Fats, oils and grease are some of the biggest culprits behind household drain problems.

When hot, they look harmless but as soon as they cool inside your pipes, they solidify and cling to the pipe walls, building up layer by layer. Over time, this creates narrow, sticky channels that trap food scraps, hair and other debris eventually leading to slow drainage, foul smells and blockages. Even small amounts add up.

The safest approach is simple. Let it cool, scrape it into the bin, and wipe pans before washing to save a lot of hassle (and money) later on.

Call Mark on 07759 692989

07/09/2026

05/09/2026

Fixing broken drains can be expensive. A CCTV drain survey is one of the best investments you can make before buying a property. It reveals hidden issues underground that standard homebuyer surveys don’t inspect, things like cracked pipes, root ingress, displaced joints or early signs of collapse. Catching these problems before you commit can save you thousands in repairs, help you negotiate confidently and ensure you’re not inheriting a costly drainage problem the moment you move in. Call Mark on 07759692989

25/08/2026

We may be lucky enough to have the white cliffs on our doorstep, but chalk causes hard water and this can create limescale that builds up in our drains.

Scale reduces the flow and its rough surface can also trap toilet tissue and food particles, creating more obstructions that worsen over time.

If your drains are slow draining or gurgling give us a ring on 07759692989.

05/06/2026

Your local, independent drainage contractor. Call Mark on 07759 692989

24/05/2026

Standing water around outdoor drains often means leaves, soil or debris have built up. Left untreated, this can lead to flooding, damp and even damage to the property’s foundations.