Drainage and Jetting

Drainage

The law on sewer ownership changed in October 2011, so now only drains (pipes serving one property) on your property are your responsibility.

If your drains are blocked you need to call a plumber or drainage engineer, otherwise contact Thames Water on 0845 9200 800, who will charge you for clearing your drain.

Sewers (pipes serving more than one property) are now the responsibility of Thames Water. If your drain is shared with your neighbour and is blocked contact Thames Water on 0845 9200 800. You will not be charged for clearing a sewer shared with your neighbour.

The responsibility for drains on public highways, which take road water, is split between Oxfordshire County Council and Oxford City Council. Oxfordshire County Council is responsible for drains on major roads and Oxford City Council is responsible for drains on minor roads.

To find out who deals with drains which take road water use the details in the 'Contact Us' menu at the top of this page or fill in our online form below and we can forward it on to the correct Council.

Report drainage problem online

Commercial Jetter Service

our Oxford Direct Services team offer a jetter service available for CCTV investigation, septic tank emptying (Fridays only), and clearing minor floods or blockages in private drains.

There is a charge for all these services. Payment is due prior to attending the site unless you already have an account with us.

Council Tenants

Council tenants should telephone us on 0800 227676 for advice.

Page last reviewed 1 May 2012