Blocked drains

You can help stop drains and sewers from becoming blocked or damaged by disposing of waste correctly and taking care during any building work. This helps prevent bad smells, flooding and costly repairs.

Dispose of waste properly

Only waste water should go down your drains. Many everyday items can cause blockages if flushed or poured away.

Do not put any of the following down sinks, toilets or drains:

• waste food
• paints or solvents
• fats, oils or grease
• disposable nappies or wipes
• condoms
• sanitary products
• bandages or dressings
• animal waste
• cotton wool or cotton buds
• razor blades
• fuel

These can thicken, get stuck in pipes and cause damage or pollution.

Take care during building work

If you are carrying out home improvements, be careful not to damage drains or sewers. Major changes to your drainage system may need a building warrant. Contact Building Standards if you need advice.

When repairing, rebuilding or moving a drain, you should:

• leave enough space around drains for maintenance
• avoid damaging pipes during construction
• avoid disturbing the ground that supports the pipework

Be careful when making new connections

Most homes built after 1950 have separate systems for foul water and surface water.

Make sure you connect to the correct drain if:

• you make a new drainage connection
• you change plumbing inside your home (for example, installing a washing machine)

Connecting foul waste to a surface water drain can cause pollution and may lead to prosecution. Connecting surface water to a foul drain can contribute to flooding.

If you plan to connect to a drain or sewer that Scottish Water is responsible for, you must notify them first.

Report fly‑tipping

Fly‑tipping in or near streams and culverts can block water flow and lead to flooding. Please report it so we can take action.