Menu
About Us

Our goal is to deliver high-quality, tailored services that exceed our clients’ expectations and help them reclaim their spaces. For any queries or assistance, feel free to contact us. Let us help you create a cleaner, more organized space today.

Contact Info
Telephone

0800 6118277

Email

info@pitchfibrespecialists.co.uk

Are Pitch Fibre Drains Still Legal? Everything You Should Know

Call 0800 6118277

Make Your Enquiry Today


    Are Pitch Fibre Drains Still Legal?

    When we’re called out for a pitch fibre drain repair in Dorchester or the surrounding area, one of the most common questions we hear is: “Are these pipes even legal anymore?” It’s a fair question—after all, the phrase “pitch fibre” often sounds like a relic from a bygone era.

    In this article, we’ll give you the complete lowdown. We’ll explore the legality of pitch fibre drains, explain what they are, why they were used, and—critically—what you should do if your property still relies on them. We’ll back it all up with expert insights, practical advice, and real-life examples from homes and businesses like yours.

    Learn More

    A Short History Lesson

    First introduced in the UK during the 1950s, pitch fibre pipes were seen as a revolutionary alternative to traditional clay and cast iron. Made from wood cellulose fibres impregnated with coal tar (or ‘pitch’), they were lighter, cheaper, and quicker to install.

    In post-war Britain, where speed and cost were paramount during the housing boom, pitch fibre drains were a dream come true for developers. Unfortunately, that dream didn’t last.

    Not Built to Last

    The primary issue with pitch fibre pipework is durability. These pipes have a service life of around 40–50 years—many are already well past their expiry date. Over time, they:

    • Collapse under pressure, especially from heavy ground or tree root intrusion.

    • Deform when exposed to hot water, fats, oils, and chemicals.

    • Delaminate internally, reducing flow and causing frequent blockages.

    We recently attended a blocked drain in Dorchester where the culprit turned out to be a collapsed pitch fibre pipe softened by decades of hot kitchen waste. The homeowner had been battling recurring drainage issues for months without realising the root cause was outdated pipework.

    Current UK Building Regulations

    There is no law banning the presence or continued use of pitch fibre pipes. That said, UK Building Regulations no longer recognise pitch fibre as a suitable material for new drainage installations. In essence, they’re grandfathered in—allowed to remain until they fail.

    This legal status puts the onus on property owners. You won’t be fined for having pitch fibre drains, but you’re fully responsible for maintenance and repair. And when those pipes do fail (not if, but when), you’ll be footing the bill.

    Get in Touch

    Prevention Is Better Than Expensive Emergency Repairs

    If your property was built between the 1950s and 1970s, there’s a strong chance it contains pitch fibre pipework. The problem is, many homeowners don’t find out until the pipes cause serious issues—blockages, flooding, or subsidence.

    We recommend a CCTV drain survey to assess your drainage system. If we spot pitch fibre pipes, we can advise on the best course of action: from structural pitch fibre repairs using resin lining, to full replacement with modern PVC or clay systems.

    Repair Options for Pitch Fibre Drains

    Not every situation requires a full excavation. Thanks to modern technology, we can often carry out non-intrusive pitch fibre drain repairs that restore functionality without digging up your garden or driveway.

    H3: Key Solutions:

    • Re-rounding and Lining: A tool is inserted to reshape deformed pitch fibre pipes, then a resin liner is installed inside. This creates a new, durable pipe within the old one.

    • Patch Repairs: Small damaged sections can be fixed with strategically placed patches.

    • Pipe Replacement: In severe cases—especially where the pipes have fully collapsed or delaminated—replacement is the safest route.

    “If It Isn’t Broken, Why Fix It?”

    This is a common view. After all, many homes have had pitch fibre drains for decades without issue. And yes, not every system fails overnight.

    But the problem lies in unpredictability. Pitch fibre pipes may appear to be working fine—until they suddenly don’t. By the time symptoms show (foul smells, backups, sinkholes), the damage is often extensive.

    Just like you wouldn’t ignore a worn brake pad on your car, it’s wise not to gamble on 60-year-old drainage infrastructure.

    Book Now

    Final Thoughts: Don't Wait for a Disaster

    Pitch fibre pipes served their purpose in the post-war period, but they’re simply not up to the demands of modern life. They remain legal, but not logical—especially when safer, longer-lasting alternatives are readily available.

    Whether you’re a homeowner concerned about subsidence or a business owner tired of dealing with backups, now is the time to take action.

    We’ve helped countless customers across Dorchester and beyond inspect, diagnose, and fix pitch fibre drains before they cause major headaches. From CCTV surveys to trenchless repairs and full pipe replacement, we’ve got the tools and expertise to keep your property safe and flowing smoothly.

    Get in touch today to schedule your inspection and get peace of mind. Don’t wait for disaster—act now while the choice is still yours.