Why Is My Outside Drain Blocked in and What Can I Do?

If rainwater is pooling around your patio, your outside gully is overflowing, or there’s a foul smell near your property, you may be wondering: “Why is my outside drain blocked and what can I do about it?”

For many homeowners, these problems are common but often misunderstood and they can lead to serious damage if ignored.

What Common Things Block Outside Drains?

Here are the most frequent causes of external drain blockages:

1. Leaves, Mud and Garden Debris
   Leaves, moss, twigs and dirt from your garden often wash into your drain grates or gullies, especially after wind or rain.

2. Grease, Fat, and Food Waste
   Grease and food residues from your kitchen may find their way outdoors through connected drains. As fat cools, it solidifies and traps other debris. Read our blog on how to fix blocked drain caused by fat.

3. Tree Roots
   Roots are drawn to moisture and can infiltrate drain pipes, especially if there are cracks. Over time, they grow and block the flow.

4. Structural Damage or Pipe Collapse
   Older pipework may be misaligned or cracked due to ground movement or age, creating low spots where waste collects.

5. Non-Flushable Items
   Non-biodegradable items like wet wipes or plastics can get into external drains and contribute to serious blockages. 

How Can I Tell My Outside Drain Is Blocked?

If you’re searching “how can I tell if my outside drain is blocked?”, these are common symptoms:

• Water pooling near drain covers or on paving

• Gurgling or bubbling noises when you use inside sinks

• Strong sewage or sewer-like smells around your property

• Overflow from gullies or manholes during light rain

• Recurring blockages even after clearing surface debris

What Can I Do Myself Before Calling a Pro?

Here are some safe checks you can do:

• Carefully remove the drain cover and clear away leaves or soil.

• Use a garden hose to flush water into the drain – observe if it backs up or flows freely.

• Avoid using harsh chemicals; they can damage your pipework.

• Install a mesh or grating to prevent future debris entry.

If those steps don’t help, or the blockage returns, it’s probably deeper in the system.

Why Get Help from RM Drainage and Plumbing?

At RM Drainage and Plumbing, we have the expertise and gear to tackle serious outside drain issues:

• High-pressure water jetting to remove grease, silt, and accumulated waste

• CCTV inspection to pinpoint the exact location and nature of the blockage

• Root-cutting services if tree roots are the cause

• Pipe relining or repairs if there’s structural damage

• Preventative advice to avoid repeated blockages

Plus, our quick response and local knowledge mean you’re back to dry, free-flowing drainage as soon as possible.

How to Prevent Future Blockages

• Regularly clear leaves and garden debris from drain grates

• Don’t pour fat, oil or food waste down drains

• Use drain guards to trap small matter before it enters the system

• Schedule a yearly CCTV inspection if you have older or problematic drains

Overlooking external drainage problems can lead to flooding, damp patches or even damage to your property’s foundations – so addressing these signs early is essential.