When it comes to fixing blocked drains in Bournemouth, relining is often seen as a quick, modern solution. But if you live in a communal property—such as a block of flats or a shared housing unit—there’s a legal grey area you need to understand.
🛑 Relining Shared Drains? It Might Be Illegal
Relining a drain means creating a new pipe inside the existing one using a resin-soaked liner. While this works well for private, standalone properties, it’s not always legally allowed in communal settings.
Here’s why:
- Shared Ownership: Communal drainage systems typically fall under shared ownership—either with other residents, housing associations, or management companies. This means you cannot alter or repair shared infrastructure without proper consent.
- Consent Required: Under UK water industry regulations, any modifications to shared drainage systems must involve consultation with all property stakeholders and possibly the local water authority.
- Liability Issues: If a relining job fails or causes a blockage elsewhere in the system, you could be held liable for the damage—even if you didn’t cause the original fault.
✅ What You Should Do Instead
If you live in a communal property and are dealing with blocked drains in Bournemouth, here’s the proper procedure:
- Get a CCTV Drain Survey: A professional inspection identifies the exact issue and whether it affects shared pipes.
- Contact the Management Company or Freeholder: They’ll need to be involved in any repair decision.
- Work with Certified Contractors: At Bournemouth Drains24, we offer full consultation and liaise with all relevant parties for legal and safe repairs.
🛠Our Services for Communal Drainage Issues Include:
- CCTV Surveys for communal and shared drains
- Written reports for management companies or legal proceedings
- Coordinated repairs that meet legal standards
- Emergency drain unblocking in Bournemouth
🧠Final Thoughts
While relining is a powerful tool for repairing damaged drains, it’s not suitable—or legal—for all situations. If you’re unsure, your best bet is to consult the experts.
Need help with a communal drain issue?
Call Bournemouth Drains24 for free advice, legal guidance, and fast emergency response.
