What is Surface Water Drainage? Find Out Where Yours Drains
As a property owner, you might not think about your drainage system until there’s a problem.
Knowing where your surface water drains is essential, especially if you're planning work on your property, like building an extension. If you’re planning building work on your home, you can find out how close you can build to an inspection chamber in our article ‘How close can you build to an inspection chamber?’.
If you've found yourself asking, "How do I know where my surface water drains to?" or wondering about terms like "soakaway" or "foul vs. surface water drainage," you’re in the right place.
At Lanes, we specialise in mapping and maintaining drainage systems. With years of experience, we know the most effective ways to find your drainage points.
In this guide, we'll show you several methods for tracking your surface water drainage so that you can find the most efficient method for you.
What is Surface Water Drainage?
Surface water drainage refers to the system responsible for collecting and directing rainwater, melted snow, or other water that collects on the exterior surfaces of your property.
This water typically comes from rooftops, driveways, gardens, and other outdoor areas.
Surface water drainage systems often connect to local sewer systems, soakaways, or other forms of water management, ensuring that excess water is safely removed from your property.
Proper drainage is essential to maintain the health of your property and avoid potential damage caused by standing water.
If you’re unsure who is responsible for surface water, our surface water article explains this in more detail.
How Can I Find Out Where My Water Drains Are?
The DIY approach
A simple way to determine where your surface water drains are is by observing them.
After heavy rain, water your garden or wash your car, and watch where the water flows. This can help you pinpoint the drainage point.
Most private properties are connected to local sewer systems, where surface water is usually directed. If this is the case, your water bill will include a charge for the drainage service.
Our article ‘Private drains and sewers’ explains who is responsible for private sewers and drains.
How Do I Know If I Have a Soakway?
Alternatively, your property might have a soakaway. This pit filled with stone or plastic absorbs excess surface water, allowing it to soak into the ground or redistribute.
If there’s no rain, you can use a hosepipe to create standing water. However, this can be wasteful and isn’t always the most efficient method. If you only need to find the drainage system and there’s no urgent issue, it’s better to try other approaches.
Check with Authorities for Drainage Information
Another way to locate your drainage system is by reviewing your property deeds.
Start here if you’re dealing with drainage issues like water pooling or frequent flooding.
However, if you’re facing serious drainage problems, like standing water in your garden long after it rains, contact a specialist drainage engineer immediately.
Property deeds often provide drainage details, but they might need more information to map your system thoroughly.
Sometimes, your local water authority can map your drainage system. However, these maps may not always be very detailed.
You might need a CCTV drain survey from a professional for a more precise map.
Our homeowner’s responsibility guide, ‘Blocked sewer drains: Who is responsible?’ can also provide more information on what to do if a drain is blocked.
The Difference Between Surface Water and Foul Water Drainage
Your property likely has two types of drainage: surface water and foul water.
Surface water drainage handles rainwater, snowmelt, and other outdoor water that needs to drain away. It’s typically clean and doesn't contain harmful chemicals.
Foul water drainage deals with waste from sinks, toilets, and other household utilities. It is often contaminated and must be treated before it can be safely released into the environment.
Learn more about where surface and foul water drains to in our article 'Can surface water drain to a foul sewer'.
Looking for Surface Water Drainage Services?
If you’re having trouble with surface water drainage or need a detailed system map, you can contact Lanes Drainage Services on 0800 526 488.
We offer 24/7 support and expert advice for domestic and commercial drain services..