Sewer blockages
You might not see a sewer blockage, but your drains will give you clues.
Some common signs include:
- Gurgling noises coming from your drains
- Sinks or toilets that are slow to drain
- Wastewater overflowing from internal floor wastes (in your bathroom, toilet or laundry) or from an outdoor drain
If you notice any of these signs, follow the steps below.
1. Check your 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.
You may need to unscrew or lift the lid to check.
If you feel any pressure, see any overflow or visible signs of sewage, stop immediately.
Where is your sewer shaft?
Your sewer shaft will be in either the 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.
2. If your sewer shaft is clear
You should contact a licensed plumber.
The plumber will determine whether the blockage is in your internal drainage system or Hunter Water's wastewater network.
This will be at your own expense.
If your plumber believes the problem is in Hunter Water's wastewater system, you should contact us. We will arrange any work that is needed.
If you are a tenant, contact your managing agent or landlord to engage a licensed plumber.
Are you experiencing financial difficulty?
If you are the homeowner and experiencing financial difficulty, contact us. We're here to help.
3. Not sure? Try the bucket test
Pour a bucket of water down the inspection shaft.
- If the water flows away quickly, the Hunter Water system is likely clear and the blockage is in your internal plumbing.
- If it does not drain away, there may be an issue with our network. Contact us to investigate.
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Want to know where our pipes are on your property?
- Visit Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) and lodge your enquiry online.
- Sign in or register for a free account.
- Provide the following project details: start and expected finish dates, type of work and the project location
- BYDA will use this information to give you the right plans for your project.
Contact us
Not sure about something? Get in touch. We're here to help. Call us 24/7 on 1300 657 000
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.