10 Immediate Steps to Take in a Drainage Emergency

Drainage disasters can strike out of nowhere, causing property damage, health risks, and significant disruptions to your daily life. The good news? Whether it's a sudden burst pipe or a stubborn blockage, quick action and the right know-how can prevent further damage and get your life back on track.

The Greenstar team have dealt with countless drainage emergencies over the last 30 years, and we're here to share what we've learned. Check out our step-by-step guide to help you handle a drainage crisis with confidence!

1. Identify the Problem

The first step in handling a drainage emergency is figuring out what's going on. These problems can take many forms, so it's crucial to spot the warning signs early. Here are some common indicators to look out for:

• Water isn't draining properly in sinks, showers, or toilets.
• A persistent bad smell coming from drains or pipes, often signaling a blockage.
• Water is backing up into sinks, toilets, or even outdoor drains.
• Strange gurgling or bubbling noises in your pipes, caused by trapped air.
• Wet spots are appearing on floors, ceilings, or walls, which could mean a burst pipe or a leak.

Once you've identified the problem, you'll have a better sense of how urgent it is and what steps to take next.

2. Protect Yourself and Others

Before doing anything, remember that dealing with a drainage emergency often means coming into contact with contaminated water, which can carry serious health risks. Stay safe by following these precautions:

• Wear protective gear like gloves, masks, and waterproof boots.
• Avoid touching standing water, especially if it contains sewage.
• Keep children and pets well away from the area until it's fully cleaned and sanitised.

3. Stop Water Flow

If you're dealing with a major leak or water overflow, your first move should be to stop the water flow. Find your property's main water shut-off valve – this is typically located near the water meter or where the water line enters the building – and turn it off. This will help prevent further flooding, giving you time to assess the situation without worrying about more damage.

If the problem is limited to a specific fixture, like a sink or toilet, you might be able to turn off the water supply just to that appliance. Look for a small valve under or behind it and close it to stop the flow.

4. Avoid Using Affected Drains

After identifying the problem area, stop using any sinks, toilets, or appliances connected to the affected drain. Using them can increase pressure in the system, which might lead to overflows or further damage. For businesses, this is especially important to prevent contamination or health risks in shared spaces.

5. Clear Blockages Safely

If you think it's just a minor blockage and you're comfortable tackling it yourself, here are a few simple and safe methods to try:

• Create a seal around the drain with a plunger and push firmly to loosen the blockage. This works well for sinks and toilets.
• If a plunger doesn't do the trick, try using a drain snake (or auger). This flexible tool can reach deeper into the pipe to clear stubborn clogs, but handle it carefully to avoid damaging the pipes.
• For grease-related blockages, pour boiling water down the drain in stages. It can help melt and wash away greasy residue.

Important: Steer clear of chemical drain cleaners. While they may seem like a quick fix, they can corrode your pipes and cause more damage, especially during emergencies.

6. Ventilate the Area

Standing water or sewage backups can release harmful bacteria, foul odours, and even mold spores. To minimise your exposure, open windows and doors in the affected area to improve airflow. Good ventilation reduces health risks and makes it safer for professionals to assess and fix the problem when they arrive.

7. Prevent Electrical Hazards

Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If water has come into contact with electrical outlets, appliances, or wiring, turn off the power to the affected area immediately.

Never try to unplug appliances or touch anything electrical while standing in water. It's safest to wait for a qualified professional to inspect the situation and restore power properly.

8. Call an Emergency Drainage Specialist

If the drainage issue is serious, calling in a professional is always the best choice. Trying to fix complex problems on your own can often make things worse, leading to more damage, higher repair costs, and potential safety hazards.

A trusted drainage expert can resolve the problem quickly and effectively. Here's what they can do:

• Pinpoint the root cause of the issue with advanced tools like CCTV drain cameras.
• Clear blockages, repair burst pipes, or replace damaged parts as needed.
• Offer long-term solutions to help prevent future emergencies.

9. Document the Damage

If your drainage emergency has caused serious damage, like flooding, waterlogged floors, or property destruction, it's important to document everything for your insurance claim. Take clear photos or videos of the affected areas, including any damaged fixtures or belongings. Having this evidence on hand can help support your claim and speed up the reimbursement process.

10. Plan for Future Prevention

After resolving the immediate problem, it's a good idea to take steps to prevent future drainage emergencies:

• Schedule regular maintenance for your plumbing and drainage systems.
• Use drain covers to keep debris from clogging your pipes.
• Avoid pouring grease, oil, or food scraps down the sink.
• Educate family members or employees on proper drain care.

Being proactive can help you avoid similar issues down the road.

Need Help Now? Call Greenstar for Professional Emergency Drainage Services

Got a drainage emergency? Don't worry – Greenstar is here to help!

With over 30 years of experience serving Dorset, Hampshire, and Wiltshire, our qualified team is ready to tackle any problem and get your drains back in working order, fast.

We're proud to be accredited by Checkatrade, Trading Standards, SafeContractor, and Which!, so you can count on a high standard of service every time. Whether it's a burst drain, a stubborn blockage, or a full-on system failure, we're on call 24/7 to get things sorted.

Don't let the problem grow – book emergency repairs online or give us a call on 01202 355 344 today!