How to prevent stormwater backup on your property

Is heavy rainfall causing your property to flood? You might have a blocked stormwater drain.

The rain can be such a welcome change from the hot, dry weather we experience over the summertime. But whilst it keeps our gardens satisfied and has given life to our lawns, sudden storms and heavy rain downpours can wreak havoc on your plumbing.

If you find that the heavy downpour is leaving puddles and water build up around your yard, house, verandahs and outdoor entertaining areas, you might have a blocked stormwater drain which is preventing the water from moving off your property.

What is a stormwater?

Stormwater refers to any water which runs off your house and property as a result of rainfall. This can include water that runs from your roofs, pathways, roads, and structures on your property.

If you have an effective drainage system in place on your property, the water should drain from your home and into the main council-controlled waterways.

Why is it important to have effective stormwater drainage?

Water flooding on your property can cause damage both to your home’s foundations and to the landscape on your property. A build-up of debris can also damage your plumbing piping. Repairing the foundations of your house and your plumbing system can be a costly exercise.

Property owners also have a responsibility to manage their stormwater runoff in an effective way to reduce any water flow onto neighbouring properties.

How can I tell if I have a blocked stormwater drain?

While one of the most obvious signs of stormwater build up is flooding or pooling of water on your property when it rains, there are other signs to look out for.

Do your gutters overflow? Are your external drains draining slowly or not at all? Are your external drains in your entertaining areas or paved areas covered with dirt, grass, or clippings?

These are all signs that you might have a backup or blockage in your stormwater drain.

How can I stop stormwater from backing up on my property?

Fixing your stormwater drainage starts with a regular maintenance approach. It’s important to keep an eye on your gutters and external drainage systems to ensure there isn’t a build up of debris causing your drains to block. If there is a blockage, you can clean it out using tools or by spraying water into the downpipe or gutter to clear out the debris.

Installing gutter guards, filters on your stormwater drain gates or leaf diverters can help prevent debris from entering your plumbing as well.

If you suspect a blocked drain is preventing water from running off your property, it’s also a good idea to speak to a professional, qualified and experienced plumber who can check your plumbing and fix any backup.

A Hunter Eco Plumber can help prevent any severe damage to your property and to your overall plumbing system by checking your property for blockages. We can also review your current drainage system to ensure you are set up for proper drainage off your property.

We offer a team of local, licensed plumbers who specialise in residential plumbing and water saving solutions for households and businesses in Newcastle, Cardiff, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and Maitland.  No job is too big or too small!

Get in contact with your local plumber today!

P: 0488 123 034

E: [email protected]