Drainage and flooding
Unfortunately the responsibility for drainage and flooding problems can be complicated, and the following is not definitive, but hopefully in most cases it will direct you to the correct agency:
- Does your enquiry involve highway drainage, including road gullies and highway culverts? Gullies obstructed by surface debris such as fallen leaves may be improved by street sweeping. This function is undertaken by local borough councils. Internally blocked gullies causing dangerous localised flooding may be reported on line using our highway problems and enquiries form or you can find out more about how we clean gullies and view our gully cleaning schedule.
- Does your enquiry relate to a main river? If so, contact the Environment Agency:
- General enquiry line - 08708 506506
- Emergency hotline - 0800 807060
- Floodline - 08459 881 188
- E-mail: enquiries@environment-agency.gov.uk
- Does your enquiry involve land drainage or a 'non-main river'? If so, contact your local borough council.
- Does your enquiry relate to a public sewer? If so, most of the county is covered by Thames water (alternatively, you may be covered by Southern Water).
- Does your enquiry relate to a private sewer, private land or a private road? If so, it is the responsibility of the property owner. To find out who owns an area of land or property, contact the Land Registry.
- Do you want flooding advice? If so, see our pages on Emergency Planning.
