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Smoke testing in our wastewater network

We use smoke testing to find faults in our wastewater network. It’s a fast and cost-effective way of identifying leaks, damaged pipes and unauthorised connections.

The testing works by pushing smoke via a machine through manholes into wastewater pipes to see where it escapes. During testing, smoke will be seen coming from different places including roof terminal vents on homes, stormwater downpipes, sumps or drains, manhole covers, building foundations, and holes and cracks in the ground.

Vapour coming from the ground, a drain, or another unexpected place may point to a problem.

  • If we find a fault on our network, we’ll work to correct it and stop stormwater and other surface water entering the wastewater network - this reduces the risk of overflows and breakages.
  • If we identify an issue on your property, we’ll let you know about any remedial work that may be required.

If we’re doing smoke testing in your neighbourhood, we’ll send a letter in advance to let you know.

While smoke testing is more commonly carried out in commercial and industrial areas, we also do this in residential areas from time to time.

No - it is safe for humans, animals and plants.

The smoke used is a dense non-toxic and odourless vapour, similar to the vapour used in smoke machines at concerts and parties. It poses no fire hazard, leaves no residue or stains and will disappear quickly without leaving a smell.

However, if there is an individual in your home with respiratory or mobility limitations, please notify one of the contacts on the notification letter that will be delivered to you prior to testing or call us on 07 376 0899.

Firstly, you do not need to be home when smoke testing is being carried out. While our team may need to access your property, they will not need to enter your home. If we have any concerns, we will be in touch.

To reduce the chance of smoke entering your premises we suggest you run all taps, showers, and flush toilets that aren’t used often to create a seal in the pipe system, prior to smoke testing.

If there is an individual in your home with respiratory or mobility limitations, please notify one of the contacts on the notification letter that will be delivered to you prior to testing or call us on 07 376 0899.

If your plumbing is installed and working properly, smoke shouldn't enter your home.

If it does, don't be alarmed as this can happen on occasions due to unknown plumbing or pipe issues (the smoke is non-toxic). In this situation, you should open windows and doors to allow ventilation and note where the smoke is coming from. The smoke will clear in a few minutes, and you can leave your home to notify one of the smoke-testing team in the area if they have not come to see you, or call one of the contacts on the notification letter that will be delivered to you prior to testing.

If you have any doubt as to the source of the smoke in your home or it has a burning smell do not hesitate to call 111.

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