Rain in the sewer causes overflows
GWMWater says connecting stormwater to the sewerage system isn't allowed. In wet weather, rainwater in the sewer overloads the pipes and can push sewage out into streets, parks and private properties.
To find wrong connections it uses smoke testing, dye testing and CCTV, then works with owners on fixes. A common culprit is a roof downpipe running into a sewer drain or gully, which GWMWater says should never happen. Our stormwater page explains where roof water should go.
Your overflow relief gully, GWMWater's way
- It should sit at least 75 mm above ground level.
- The ground around it should slope away from the house.
- Too low and rainwater gets into the sewer; too high and sewage can back up inside.
- Keep maintenance holes clear, and don't plant trees over sewer pipes.
- Unsure? GWMWater's advice is to ask a licensed plumber.
Horsham in brief
Water from the Grampians
GWMWater draws Horsham's water from the Grampians headworks storages, treats it at the Mt Zero Water Treatment Plant and pipes it to town.
Mostly houses
At the 2021 Census, 88.6% of occupied homes in the suburb of Horsham were separate houses, 5.8% flats and 5.4% townhouses or semis. 29.8% were rented.
Sewer where it's available
Horsham Rural City Council says that if reticulated sewerage is available to a lot, the buildings on it must connect.
Septic outside the sewer
Where there's no sewer, Horsham Rural City Council issues permits to install or alter an onsite wastewater system, and the system can't be used until a permit to use is issued. Upkeep is the owner's: Council says septic tanks should be pumped out every three years, and packaged treatment plants need quarterly maintenance. See septic systems.
Your pipe or GWMWater's?
We couldn't find a GWMWater page that says exactly where its sewer responsibility ends on a property, so ask GWMWater before anyone digs near the boundary. Its own rule of thumb: a problem on your property goes to a licensed plumber, while one on public land or another property goes to GWMWater to investigate.
Victorian rules
The 2027 gas hot water rule: from 1 March 2027, when an existing home's gas system reaches end of life, its replacement must be efficient and electric, a heat pump for instance. Repairs are allowed in the meantime; check current rules before you buy. Licensing: the Building and Plumbing Commission administers registrations and licences, and only licensed plumbers can sign compliance certificates. More on the Victoria page.
What we would do
Walk around the house during the next heavy rain. Water ponding near the overflow gully, or downpipes disappearing into the ground beside it, are worth a plumber's look. If the gully sits flush with the ground or under mulch, have it raised to the right height before a blockage shows you why it matters.