My Sewer Is Blocked – Do I Call South Gippsland Water or a Plumber?
A blocked sewer is never pleasant.
Whether it’s slow drains, gurgling pipes or sewage coming up outside near a gully trap, the big question most homeowners ask is:
“Do I call South Gippsland Water, or do I need a plumber?”
The answer depends on where the blockage is located.
Who Is Responsible for Sewer Pipes in South Gippsland?
In simple terms:
You are responsible for the sewer pipes inside your property boundary.
The water authority is responsible for the main sewer beyond the connection point.
There is a defined connection point (often near your boundary) where your private sewer connects to the authority’s sewer system.
Anything on your side of that connection is generally your responsibility.
Anything beyond it is typically theirs.
How Do I Know Where the Blockage Is?
Here’s a practical way to think about it:
If you’re noticing:
Only your home is affected
Toilets and drains inside are backing up
Sewage is coming up in your yard
It’s most likely on your private property.
That means you’ll need a licensed plumber, and if sewage is backing up inside the house it’s best to call an emergency plumber as soon as possible.
If you’re noticing:
Multiple properties affected
Overflowing sewer pits in the street
Neighbours with the same issue
It may be in the main sewer system.
In that case, contacting South Gippsland Water first is a good step.
What Usually Causes Sewer Blockages?
From what we see on-site in Inverloch and surrounding areas, the most common causes are:
Tree root intrusion
Fat and grease build-up
Wipes and sanitary products
Broken or collapsed pipes
Older clay or galvanised pipework
Tree roots are particularly common in older homes with established gardens.
What Should I Do If My Sewer Is Blocked?
Stop using water immediately.
Check whether neighbours are experiencing the same issue.
If it appears to be isolated to your home, call a plumber.
If you’re unsure, you can contact South Gippsland Water for guidance.
In many cases, a plumber can attend quickly, inspect the line with a CCTV camera and determine exactly where the blockage is located.
If it turns out to be beyond your connection point, we can advise you accordingly.
Why It’s Often Faster to Call a Plumber First
If the blockage is on your property (which is common), South Gippsland Water will refer you back to a plumber.
Calling a local plumber first can:
Identify the issue quickly
Prevent further damage
Confirm responsibility
Get the problem resolved faster
In some cases, we can clear the blockage on the spot.
Sewer Blockages in Inverloch & Bass Coast
Coastal properties and older homes in the Bass Coast region often have ageing sewer lines, which increases the risk of root intrusion and pipe damage.
If you’re experiencing recurring blockages, it may be worth investigating the condition of the line rather than just clearing it repeatedly.
Need Help?
If your sewer is blocked and you’re not sure what to do, we’re happy to assess the situation and point you in the right direction.
📞 0488 253 663 (0488 ALDONE) Give us a call