Blocked drain warning signs you should not ignore

Gurgling, slow sinks, a smell in the laundry or water in the yard gully. What each sign means, which ones point to the main sewer line, and what to do next.

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Flooded outdoor laundry area with a drain beside a utility sink.

Key takeaways

One slow fixture usually means a local blockage. Several fixtures slowing or gurgling together points to the main sewer line.
The overflow relief gully outside is your early warning. If its grate has lifted or water is sitting in it, stop using water and call us.
If sewage is overflowing beyond your boundary or your neighbours have the same problem, the blockage may be in Sydney Water's pipes. Call us on 0468 207 504: we find where it is and, if it is Sydney Water's, report it for you with a job number for your claim. If only your home is affected, the blockage is most likely in your own pipes, and we find and clear it.
Keep chemicals, wipes, fat and food scraps out of the drains. Sydney Water says only pee, poo and toilet paper belong in the toilet.