Council conducts routine manhole inspections to ensure manholes are accessible and visible, not leaking or having stormwater directed into them, not containing tree roots or blockages.
If a manhole within your property is not accessible, Council may direct you to make it accessible or do work on your behalf. In some instances, excavation may be required. For example, if a garden bed has been built over the manhole, Council may direct the property owner to remove it to restore access.
Property owners, builders, developers and consultants must consider services that exist on the land, including the position of manholes and sewerage infrastructure and make sure they remain accessible at all times and are not damaged during construction.