Metrowater is advising Aucklanders to clear their private stormwater drains, called cess pits, to avoid winter flooding.

Metrowater Operations Manager Raveen Jaduram says one of the most common causes of winter flooding is clogged private drains. He says during Autumn cess pits and drains become blocked with leaves and debris, preventing stormwater draining away during rain.

"If your cess pits aren't clear your property is likely to flood, regardless of how heavy or light the rain may be," says Mr Jaduram.

Mr Jaduram says most Auckland properties with a concrete or paved driveway or courtyard should have a cess pit. The pit allows rainwater, prevented from soaking into the ground because of the concrete, to drain away.

Mr Jaduram says if your property has a cess pit it's likely to be set into the ground at the lowest point of the concrete or paving area. It looks like a drain with a grate on top. To clear it you should lift up the grate and remove anything obscuring the drainage outlet (half way down the pit).

"It's a five minute job and it could prevent your property and home flooding during winter," says Mr Jaduram.

Ends

© Scoop Media