Drain & blockage troubleshooting guides
Troubleshoot slow drains, bad smells, gurgling pipes and outside gully overflows.
Common problems
Sink gurgling when draining
Advice Hub / Drains & Blockages Sink gurgling when draining Check time: 10–15 minutes • Difficulty: Easy checks • Safety: Low risk Quick summary This guide explains common causes and safe checks related to sink gurgling when draining. Safety first If you smell gas or suspect CO, leave the property and call 0800 111 999.
Outside drain blocked
Advice Hub / Drains & Blockages Outside drain blocked Check time: 10–15 minutes • Difficulty: Easy checks • Safety: Low risk Quick summary This guide explains common causes and safe checks related to outside drain blocked. Safety first If you smell gas or suspect CO, leave the property and call 0800 111 999. Do not
Gurgling drain and bad smells: trap, venting, or blockage?
Advice Hub / Drains & Blockages Gurgling drain and bad smells: trap, venting, or blockage? Check time: 10–15 minutes • Difficulty: Easy checks • Safety: Low risk Quick summary If you hear gurgling and smell drains, start with the trap water seal and whether other fixtures affect it (airflow/venting clues). Safety first Avoid mixing drain
Outside drain blocked or overflowing gully: safe first steps
Advice Hub / Drains & Blockages Outside drain blocked or overflowing gully: safe first steps Check time: 10–15 minutes • Difficulty: Easy checks • Safety: Low risk Quick summary If an outside gully overflows, assume it could be sewage. Identify whether it’s just one line (kitchen/bathroom) or the main drain. Safety first Treat overflow as
Sink draining slowly: quick causes and safe steps
Advice Hub / Drains & Blockages Sink draining slowly: quick causes and safe steps Check time: 10–15 minutes • Difficulty: Easy checks • Safety: Low risk Quick summary If one sink is slow but others are fine, start with the trap under that sink. If multiple fixtures are slow, think main drain. Safety first Avoid