Stormwater drainage systems manage rainfall runoff and protect properties, public spaces, and the environment from flooding and water damage. Understanding who is responsible for stormwater drains in Queensland ensures they remain effective, minimising costly repairs and environmental harm. In this blog, we outline the roles of property owners and local councils in maintaining stormwater drains, and provide practical maintenance tips for when issues arise.
How Stormwater Drainage Systems Work
Stormwater is rainwater that runs off rooftops, driveways, and roads, flowing into stormwater drains. These drains connect to a larger drainage network managed by local councils, directing water into nearby waterways. Unlike sewage systems, stormwater does not undergo treatment before discharge.
Stormwater systems typically consist of three components:
- Roof drainage: Collects water from building roofs.
- Surface drainage: Manages water runoff from roads, driveways, and landscaped areas.
- Subsoil drainage: Prevents waterlogging in soil beneath the surface.
Key collection points include kerbs, stormwater pits, and rubble pits. Proper maintenance is vital to ensure efficient drainage and prevent flooding.
Responsibilities for Stormwater Drains in Queensland
Property Owners
- On-site systems: Property owners are responsible for maintaining drains on their property up to the connection point with council-managed systems. This includes gutters, downpipes, and private stormwater drains.
- Maintenance: Regularly inspect and clear debris from gutters, downpipes, and drains to prevent blockages. Ensure stormwater isn’t redirected onto neighbouring properties or into sewage systems. Find out more in our blog on how to prevent your stormwater drain from clogging or how to unblock a storm drain.
Local Councils
- Public infrastructure: Councils manage stormwater systems located on public property, such as streets, parks, and waterways. Their duties include regular cleaning, repairs, and upgrades to accommodate urban development and extreme weather events.
- Reporting issues: Residents can report blockages or damage to public stormwater drains for council action.
Contact information:
If you live outside of these areas, please look for your local councils stormwater drain policies.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Neglecting stormwater systems can lead to:
- Flooding
- Structural issues such as cracks in walls, uneven flooring, and more
- Pests and mould
- Environmental damage such as soil erosion and water pollution
Tips for Maintaining Stormwater Drains
- Regularly remove leaves, dirt, and other obstructions from gutters and drains, especially during storm seasons.
- Look for signs of damage or blockages, such as slow water flow, pooling water, or unpleasant odours.
- Hire plumbers to clean stormwater systems twice a year using high-pressure jets or CCTV cameras to detect and remove stubborn blockages.
- Address any cracks or damage in stormwater pipes to prevent escalation.
What to Do if Issues Arise
If you experience persistent drainage problems, consider:
- For private stormwater systems, professional plumbers can resolve stormwater drain blockages and provide long-term solutions.
- Report problems with public stormwater drains, such as damage or overflow, to your local council.
Stormwater Drainage Solutions with DCM Plumbing
DCM Plumbing is your trusted partner in all things stormwater drains, with over 37 years of experience and 1300+ 5-star reviews. Whether you need assistance clearing a blocked stormwater drain or repairing a damaged system, our team is here to provide expert service. Contact us today to ensure your property stays protected, no matter the weather.
