If your drain is blocked, who is responsible for clearing it depends on whether it's a private drain or a public sewer.
If you own your home
You are usually responsible for clearing blockages and repairing private drains on your property.
Before arranging repairs, check whether your home insurance covers drainage problems.
If you cannot clear the blockage yourself, you can contact a drainage specialist or plumber to investigate the problem and carry out any repairs.
If your neighbours are also affected
If your neighbours are having the same problem, the blockage may be in a public sewer managed by United Utilities.
United Utilities can help you understand who is responsible for the drain or sewer and what to do if there's a blockage.
The council also has powers to require property owners to deal with drainage problems on privately owned land.
If you rent your home
Contact your landlord or housing association if your drains are blocked. They are responsible for dealing with the problem.
Give them an opportunity to resolve the issue before contacting the council.
Blocked road gullies and drains
If the problem involves a road gully or drain, find out how to report it on our Gullies, drains and sandbags page.
Building over or near drains and sewers
Find out more about building over or near sewers and drains.