Overflowing Stormwater Drains in PERTH? Here’s What to Do Before It Floods
Heavy rain can turn a peaceful street into a small river in a matter of minutes, especially when your stormwater drains are blocked. If you’re noticing water pooling in your yard, driveway, or street, it’s a sign your stormwater system may be struggling to cope.
Here’s what you can do right now to prevent flooding damage and when to call a professional plumber.
Why Are Stormwater Drains Overflowing?
Stormwater drains are designed to carry excess rainwater away from your property, but when they become blocked with leaves, dirt, or debris, they can’t do their job. This is especially common in older suburbs, where tree-lined streets contribute to more organic debris, and ageing pipes may not handle today’s heavier rainfalls.
Winter storms in Perth often overwhelm stormwater systems if they haven’t been cleaned or maintained, leading to water backup, flooding, and even structural damage.
Quick DIY Steps Before You Call a Plumber
If you notice your stormwater drains are starting to overflow, here are some urgent actions to take:
1. Clear Surface Debris: Remove leaves, sticks, and dirt from surface grates and gutters. This simple step can immediately improve water flow into the drain system.
2. Check for Visible Blockages: Use a garden hose to test flow in outdoor drains. If water backs up quickly, the blockage may be just below the surface and could be flushed out with water pressure.
3. Avoid Using Water Excessively Indoors: Until the issue is resolved, reduce the amount of water flowing through your system (e.g. delay laundry or dishwashing), especially if your stormwater and greywater systems are connected.
4. Redirect Water Flow Where Possible: Use sandbags or garden edging to divert water away from your home’s foundation or garage until help arrives.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
If your drains continue to overflow after you’ve cleared surface debris, or if water is backing up into your property, call The Plumbing and Gas Heroes immediately. Blockages may be deep in the pipework, caused by tree roots, collapsed pipes, or heavy silt build-up.
A professional plumber will use specialised equipment like:
- CCTV drain cameras to identify the blockage
- High-pressure water jetting to clear debris safely and thoroughly
At The Plumbing and Gas Heroes we service Bicton. Applecross, Ardross, Melville Fremantle, and surrounding suburbs with fast, expert stormwater solutions. Don’t wait until your backyard becomes a pond! our team is ready to help.
Preventive Tips for the Next Storm
Want to avoid this situation next season? Here’s what you can do:
- Book an annual stormwater drain inspection
- Clean gutters and downpipes every 3–6 months
- Install gutter guards if trees surround your home
- Ensure garden beds or landscaping don’t block drainage paths
Need Help? Call The Plumbing and Gas Heroes. Stormwater issues can escalate quickly, especially during Perth’s winter weather. If your drains are overflowing or you suspect a blockage, don’t delay. Call us for a service.