Blocked external drain - Any tips?

[stellakis]

I think the excesses of guests and fatty foods over the Xmas season has taken its toll on our drains, does anyone have any advice? It's the outside garden drain that keeps backing up, I've poured some drain clear down but to no avail, wondered if anyone has any suggestions or contacts for reliable plumbers that can help please? Thanks!

[Convex]

Hi,

We had this. In the end my husband stuck his hand in and cleared it.

You can also buy rods if you are squeamish or aren't sure what's down there (I mean sharp things)

Do it quickly... Ours backed up and broke our dishwasher!!

[Mustard]

Check your insurance, it often covers things like this, especially if you have taken out extra cover for emergencies.

[stellakis]

Thanks all! We did our best without help and then discovered you can call your water supplier(ie Thames water), and they came and sorted it promptly and for free. Great service. and What a relief. Hope you all had a great Christmas x

[antantant]

Wow thanks for coming back with the info re: water suppliers. - I've called a plumber twice to unblock ours at ?45 a pop. Won't be doing that again!

[Hillstop]

Thames Water clear blockages for free when you've got shared drains with another house, as opposed to at the street level, as who's to say whether your neighbour caused it or you. Otherwise it is supposed to be a chargeable service.