Overflowing sewer shaft on your property
If you see sewage or wastewater coming from your sewer shaft, there may be a problem with Hunter Water’s sewer system.
If your sewer shaft is overflowing, here's what to do:
- Stay clear of the area and avoid any contact with the wastewater.
- Call us immediately on 1300 657 000
- Keep others and pets away. Try to stop people walking or driving through it.
- Stop using your toilet(s) or flushing water
- We’ll send a crew to investigate.
About sewer shafts
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What is a sewer shaft?
A sewer shaft is a pipe that leads to a Hunter Water sewer main.
The opening is round, usually encased in concrete and may have a white plastic or metal lid. All sewage from your home flows to our sewer main via your sewer shaft.
Your sewer shaft will be in either your front or back yard, close to the ground and usually at the lowest point of the block.
It can be easy to miss as it is sometimes hidden under landscaping, garden beds or paving.
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Why do sewer shafts overflow?
Sewer shafts can overflow when there's a blockage or restriction in the sewer system that prevents wastewater from flowing freely.
Here are the most common reasons why this happens:
- blockages in our sewer main, usually caused by tree roots, grease, wipes etc
- broken or collapsed sewer mains or shaft connections
- heavy rain or stormwater entering the sewer system
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Is it sewage?
Yes. As sewer shafts are part of the underground sewer system, if you see water or waste coming from your shaft, it is likely sewage.
Have you experienced damage to your property?
We work hard to minimise property damage for our customers. But sometimes a water main breaks or a sewer overflows, causing damage.
If you have been affected, read our fact sheet to find out what to do next and how we may be able to help.