Waste Pipes

[granny grump]

We are semi detached and our neighbours' waste pipes are accessible on our property. The 2 small waste pipes which I assume are sink and shower/bath have developed a split and are emptying on to our property. They are not the most 'approachable' couple so I am going to drop a note through her door. Very polite saying that if they want to get someone to look at the pipes and repair them I am happy to arrange a time for them to have access and she can message me. This hopefully will avoid a confrontation which I know will happen.

What I am asking is is it against the law or a health and safety matter if the refuse to repair them?

[Hymie]

If the water release causes damage to your property, ultimately you could sue them for the cost of repair – however you might claim from your buildings insurance, who in turn could sue your neighbours if the value of the damage made it worthwhile.

I would take a video of the leaking water as evidence.

[granny grump]

Thank you Hymie The water affects their wall as well as ours so it is in their interest to fix it Fingers crossed

[The Builder]

I imagine that, in Law, it would be classed as a "nuisance", which might make it actionable............... but you really don't want to go down that route.

If it's what you think it is, it's "foul water."
It's against Environmental Health Regulations to discharge foul water in this way, even if it's only a leak.

Speak to the neighbours first as you say.
If that fails, ring Local District Council
Ask for Environmental Health.
They should take action if you're persistent.
(Play the 'Granny' card if necessary.)

Hope you can sort this :o)

[granny grump]

Thank you The Builder. I vert often play the 'granny card' :-)) I've just dropped a note through their door. V V polite. Nothing that she can take offence at. If she doesn't do anything I will contact environmental health

[Hymie]

It is possible to affect a temporary repair of a leaking pipe using waterproof tape.

For a waste pipe, it is likely to be fixed too close to the house wall to pass the roll of tape through, to make a good repair (but worth considering).

But don’t attempt to fix it yourself, you’ll be messing with your neighbour’s property.

[bobbinwales]

Are you sure it's not a pipe from a gutter...they get blocked quite easy and when it rains heavy rain water spyrts from.the joints anywhere on the pipe or gutter overflows

[granny grump]

Thank you bobbinwales
No it us definitely the waste pipes We can see the splits in the pipes. My grandson did clear some debris from the guttering as well.