to think he’s blocked his own drains?

[Springersrock]

Just as a bit of background, we live in a small, rural-ish estate. Our drains are crap and we have a cesspit - we can’t even use quilted/luxury type loo roll as it blocks the drains.

We are in a row of 3 and we share a main drain. Our house is nearest the cesspit. As we’re the first house on the drain run, when they get blocked, we end up calling out Dyno-Rod as we’re the ones affected first - we always get stung by the call out charge as everyone else feigns ignorance - ‘oh, our drains are fine’

Earlier on next-door-but-one called round. He had sewage flooding his garden and he had to call out Dyno-Rod, would we go thirds with the cost

For once, we are absolutely fine, as are next door, so AIBU to think he’s blocked his own drains and can pay his own bloody bill?

I lived in a place like this - bought some drain rods - saved a fortune.

Responsibility for sewers and lateral drains used to be the property owner's, but that changed a few years ago to the Water Companies. However, if drainage is to a private cesspit or septic system responsibility remains with the property owners. So I doubt you'll get anywhere with the waterboard. Presumably, you don't pay them for sewerage.

But the CAB seem to think the other owners are jointly responsible for costs. You may be able to get them to pay up even without anything in your deeds. Maybe consult a solicitor next time you have a blockage, especially if you have insurance that might cover some advice and a letter?