Private Property Drainage
Owner responsibilities
Property owners are responsible for maintaining all stormwater drainage on their property, including pipes, gutters, downpipes and gully pits.
- Stormwater must be collected and connected to a legal point of discharge in accordance with the Building Code of Australia and relevant Australian Standards.
- Stormwater must not be discharged into the sewer system.
- Effective stormwater management on your property is essential to prevent runoff and drainage issues.
Resolving issues with your neighbour
Stormwater issues between neighbours can occur when water is directed or flows onto another property, potentially causing damage or flooding. Most stormwater issues are considered private (civil) disputes between property owners.
For this reason, City of Newcastle can only get involved after reasonable steps have been taken to resolve the issue privately.
Before we can investigate
Before City of Newcastle can investigate, you must:
- Attempt to resolve the issue directly with the property owner where the water originates.
- If this isn't possible, seek advice or mediation support to help resolve the dispute. Considered independent legal advice, either through a private solicitor or by consulting a Chamber Magistrate at your local court.
- Documented your complaint in writing, including the actions you've taken and the outcomes.
We cannot commence an investigation until these steps have been completed.
When we will take action
When we will not take action
Related articles
- Road, Footpath & Drain Cleaning - report a City of Newcastle drain that requires clearing or cleaning.
- 138 Application - connect to City of Newcastle's stormwater system.
- Pollution - report sewage pollution on private property, such as leaking pipes or septic tanks.
Next steps
- You'll receive an acknowledgement with your request and tracking numbers, allowing you to monitor its progress in our Customer Portal.
- We will review your request. If more information is required to commence or complete our investigation, we will reach out to you.
- Depending on the outcome of the investigation, we may order a neighbouring property owner to install appropriate stormwater management controls to mitigate the flow and damage caused by the stormwater.
- Once your request has been completed, you will receive a notification.
Time frames
Requests are prioritised depending on the severity and frequency of the issues. We will endeavour to investigate in a timely matter to ensure minimal damage to your property.
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