Overflowing gully in the yard: what to do

Sewage coming out of the yard gully means the sewer is blocked. What to do straight away, who to call, what not to touch, and how a plumber fixes it.

A plumber answers 24/7.

Key takeaways

An overflowing gully is doing its job. Its grate is designed to pop off so sewage spills into the garden instead of coming up inside the house.
Stop using water straight away: no flushing, showers, washing machine or dishwasher until the sewer is cleared. Keep children and pets well away.
Check the sewer inspection shaft. If it is full or overflowing, call Hunter Water on 1300 657 000. If it is clear, the blockage is most likely in your own pipes and needs a licensed plumber.
Never cover, weigh down or pave over the gully, and never run a downpipe into it. It is part of the sewer and has to be able to overflow.