In your home

What is a combined drain?

A combined drain is a privately owned sewerage pipe running between a series of adjacent houses. The sewage from each house drains into the combined drain and then into Yarra Valley Water’s sewer.

How are combined drains different to ordinary drains?

Combined drains are the responsibility of multiple property owners. Ordinary drains are the responsibility of one property owner.

What should I do before I purchase a house with a combined drain?

The existence of a combined drain should be included in the Section 32. If a combined drain exists it is recommended the buyer is aware of any current and future maintenance responsibilities.

Yarra Valley Water recommends a buyer contacts the neighbours to discuss any existing process for the maintenance or repair of the combined drain. It should include:

A process for dealing with an emergency situation so the blockage can be fixed quickly even if neighbours are not immediately contactable.
An ongoing maintenance plan such as regular inspection and cleaning.
A preferred list of plumbers to carry out works.
Authorisation for property owners to spend a certain amount to carry out emergency repair works without consultation.
An acknowledgement from property owners that they are obliged to provide access for the maintenance or repair of the drain if required.
An agreed cost sharing arrangement (YVW has no legal powers to determine a cost sharing arrangement on behalf of property owners sharing a combined drain).

How will I know if I have a blockage?

Some blockages cause water to drain slowly from your sinks, toilets or showers, while more severe blockages may cause spills to overflow from your overflow relief gully, toilet or basin.

Properties sharing a drain may experience different symptoms or none at all.

What should I do if I have a blockage?

The first step is to locate the source of the blockage. If you cannot tell, call YVW.

Who is responsible?

If the blockage is in a home’s internal pipes, the property owner is responsible. A private plumber should be engaged. Yarra Valley Water can refer you to a private plumber if required.
If the blockage is in the combined drain, all property owners are responsible. A private plumber should be engaged. Yarra Valley Water can refer you to a private plumber if required.
If the blockage is beyond the connection point in the sewer, Yarra Valley Water is responsible. Please call Yarra Valley Water on 132 762
If the location of the blockage is unclear, Yarra Valley Water will make an assessment to determine who is responsible. Please call Yarra Valley Water on 132 762

For any related enquiries, please call Yarra Valley Water on 132 762.