A sewer overflow response is an emergency callout for surcharging sewers and manholes, typically during or following intense rainfall events. Common in Victorian combined sewer areas including Camden, Islington and parts of Hackney, the issue arises when storm runoff exceeds sewer capacity and forces foul-laden water through manhole covers or back-up into property gullies. Before the engineer arrives, occupants should keep clear of contaminated water, document the event with photographs, and report the issue to Thames Water if the public sewer is involved. The service includes assessment of cause (often a downstream blockage or undersized sewer), temporary control where possible, and a written report identifying whether the issue is private or public. Thames Water responds to public sewer overflows as part of its statutory duty under the Water Industry Act 1991.
Sewer overflow response
Emergency response to overflowing sewers and manholes, often during heavy rainfall events.
