Stormwater Drainage Checks

When heavy rain hits, your home’s stormwater drainage system quietly takes on an important role. Designed to channel excess rainwater away from your property, it helps prevent flooding, damage to your home’s foundations, and water pooling in the garden. If your system isn’t working as it should, the effects can quickly become serious.

Stormwater drainage checks ensure your pipes, gutters, and outlets are functioning properly and can handle the water flow during downpours. In this article, we’ll look at the signs of a blocked or faulty stormwater system, the common causes, and why hiring a professional plumber or stormwater company is the smartest way to protect your home.

Why Stormwater Drainage Matters

Stormwater systems prevent excess rainwater from collecting around your property. Pipes connected to downpipes direct water either to street kerb outlets, soak wells, rubble pits, or council drains. A clear, working system helps:

• Protect your home’s foundations from water damage
• Prevent flooding in garages, driveways, and backyards
• Stop soil erosion around your property
• Reduce mosquito breeding and other health hazards
• Keep neighbouring properties safe from runoff

With the Bureau of Meteorology forecasting warmer and wetter weather for many regions in Australia, homeowners should ensure their systems are prepared for the months ahead.

Signs Your Stormwater Drainage Needs Checking

Spotting problems early can save you from bigger, more expensive repairs. Here are warning signs to watch for:

• Water pooling in the yard or driveway after only moderate rainfall
• Overflowing gutters and downpipes that spill water rather than draining
• Slow draining water when testing with a garden hose
• Bubbling or gurgling sounds in the pipes, suggesting a blockage
• Damp walls or foundations near the house after rain
• Neighbours’ outlets running freely while yours remain stagnant

If you notice one or more of these, your stormwater system may need a professional inspection.

Common Causes of Stormwater Blockages

Blockages are often unavoidable over time, especially in older systems. Typical causes include:

1. Tree roots invading and cracking pipes, especially earthenware ones
2. Misaligned pipes that shift due to ground movement
3. Build-up of leaves and debris entering via gutters and downpipes
4. Collapsed or aged pipes unable to handle current water flow
5. Inadequate system design such as undersized pipes or poor slope
6. Soak wells or rubble pits filling with silt and losing effectiveness

PVC pipes are now the standard for new installations, as they are more durable and resistant to tree roots. However, many older homes still run on systems that may be decades old.

What a Professional Check Involves

Hiring a licensed plumber or stormwater specialist means the system will be properly assessed. A check may include:

• CCTV drain inspection to identify blockages or pipe damage
• High-pressure water jetting to clear stubborn clogs
• Pipe relining or replacement for damaged sections
• Regrading or adding outlets if the block slopes incorrectly
• Installing sumps or pits to manage large volumes of water
• Testing street connections to ensure water has somewhere to flow

These solutions are tailored to your block’s slope, street connection, and soil type.

Preventing Future Issues

While you can’t stop every stormwater issue, regular checks and maintenance go a long way. Professionals often recommend:

• Cleaning gutters and downpipes before the wet season
• Installing leaf guards to reduce debris entry
• Booking inspections every few years, especially in older homes
• Asking your council about property-to-street drainage availability
• Considering an upgrade to 100mm pipes for improved capacity

With above-average rainfall predicted for many regions, a small preventative step now could save thousands later.

Why Hire a Professional

Stormwater drainage problems aren’t just inconvenient. They can damage structures, devalue your property, and cause disputes with neighbours. A professional has the right equipment and experience to assess the system safely and fix problems properly.

Instead of waiting for the next big storm to test your system, it’s wise to book a check now. ServiceSeeking connects you with experienced plumbers and stormwater drainage experts in your area. You can compare quotes, check reviews, and find the right tradie for your property’s needs.

Stormwater drainage checks may not be the first thing on your to-do list, but they’re one of the most effective ways to protect your home from the effects of heavy rain. 

If it’s been years since your system was checked—or you’ve noticed water pooling where it shouldn’t—now’s the time to call in a professional. Post a job on ServiceSeeking today and get connected with reliable plumbers and stormwater companies near you.