Blocked drains can cause significant issues, including health hazards and structural damage to property. In Bournemouth, UK, like other regions, several regulations oversee how drainage systems are managed to prevent the emergence of these problems. This article provides an overview of drainage regulations relating to blocked drains in Bournemouth and provides insight into what property owners need to understand in maintaining their drainage systems.
Knowing who takes responsibility for a blocked drain is essential. According to UK law, drainage issues within the property boundary fall under the property owner’s jurisdiction, whether a private residence or a commercial establishment. This includes drain maintenance, repair, and unblocking. However, the traditional English law of ‘riparian ownership’ applies to shared drains since they may affect several properties. Therefore, all the property owners have a joint responsibility for their maintenance and repair.
The UK drainage law underwent significant changes in 2011 when it was recognised that many homeowners were neglecting their sewers and lateral drains. The transfer of private sewers regulation came into effect in England and Wales, which shifted the responsibility of shared sewers from property owners to the local water and sewage companies. In Bournemouth, the local wastewater company is Wessex Water. From this point, Wessex Water became responsible for repairing and maintaining lateral drains and sewers connected to their network.
Several planning restrictions also guide the installation and management of drainage systems. The Building Regulations 2010 in England stipulates all building works, including drain installations, alterations, or extensions, must comply with approved building regulations documents. Part H of these regulations specifically relates to drainage and waste disposal. The regulations require that the systems be adequately designed, installed, tested and adequately maintained. The regulations further stipulate that where a drain or sewer is blocked, sufficient access must be provided for a person to clear that obstruction – hence the requirement for manholes and rodding eyes.
One noteworthy aspect of the drainage regulations within Bournemouth and the broader UK is the campaign to limit wrongly disposed of items that often lead to clogged drains. The ‘Think Before You Flush’ campaign advises residents of what not to dispose of in their toilets. Items like wipes, sanitary products, cotton buds and fats, oils, or grease should be disposed of appropriately, not flushed into the drainage system.
Adherence to the Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) regulations is also encouraged in Bournemouth. This system, recommended by the Environment Agency, promotes techniques that provide an alternative to traditional water drainage, where rainwater run-off is mimicked to manage the water levels. The SuDS regulations focus on reducing flood risks and improving water quality.
The Environmental Permitting Regulations (EPR) 2016 are also crucial, designed to protect both the public and the environment. If you must discharge any liquid waste or rainwater into a surface water drain, you may require a permit under these regulations.
In conclusion, if you are a property owner in Bournemouth, maintaining your drains and conforming to all drainage regulations blocked drains bournemouth is paramount. Understanding these rules will help prevent severe drain blockages and the associated problems they can cause. Employing professional drainage companies can also help you comply with these regulations and keep your drainage systems in good working order.