Manhole covers

There are different kinds of manholes and access covers for different purposes. Responsibility for fixing them depends on their type and location. You should be able to identify a manhole by its cover, however, this isn't always obvious.

If you're having an issue with a manhole, the following examples could help you identify it.

Roadside gullies

These are owned and maintained by local authorities or Transport for London (TfL). Contact your local council if you're having an issue with blocked gullies.

Other utilities

Some manholes provide access for other utility companies, for example, electricity or gas, telecoms or media. Contact your electricity company or gas board if you have issues with this type of manhole.

Gas inspection cover

Electricity cables cover

Cables manhole cover

CATV (cable TV) cover

CATV (cable TV) manhole cover

Wastewater

Wastewater access covers inside your property boundary are your responsibility to maintain. If they serve other properties as well, please contact us and we’ll confirm who has responsibility.

We’re responsible for wastewater manholes outside of property boundaries. Find out more about sewer pipe responsibility.

Standard 600 x 600mm Thames Water wastewater cover

Unusual Thames Water cover on customer's driveway

Surface Water Circular Carriageway Manhole Cover

Thames Water circular wastewater cover

Thames Water inspection / rodding point

Thames Water wastewater manhole cover

Clean water

We use these to access clean water valves and fire hydrants. If the access cover or manhole is in your property boundary, it's your responsibility. If not, then we're responsible for fixing it. Find out more about pipe responsibility.