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Wastewater inspections and smoke testing

Council has a programme of inspections of our wastewater infrastructure. One key way of testing for issues in wastewater pipes is smoke testing.

Our wastewater system is designed for water from places like sinks, toilets, showers and baths. When too much additional water such as rainwater or surface water enters the wastewater network (such as during heavy rain events), it can overwhelm the capacity of the network and result in overflows and loss of service.

Smoke testing identifies breaks in pipes and manholes as well as locations where stormwater and other surface water can get into the wastewater system (inflow and infiltration). Once we identify the issues, we can repair or replace sections of pipe to avoid problems in the future.

We sometimes also investigate the network using CCTV inspection - inserting a small camera down the gully trap to assess the condition of your private pipework. If this impacts your property, we'll be in touch with you directly.

We let Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ) know when we are undertaking any smoke testing in an area.

What is smoke testing?

A thick, non-toxic and odourless vapour is piped into the wastewater (sewer) system at a manhole. The smoke fills the pipe and comes out any cracks or gaps in the pipework and up to the surface. This helps us identify any areas that need attention.

If smoke testing is about to take place in your area, you may receive a notice in your letterbox or see a message from council in the newspaper or online. Below are some questions and answers to help provide more information on this work.

Our wastewater system is designed for water from places like sinks, toilets, showers and baths. When too much additional water such as rainwater or surface water enters the wastewater network (such as during heavy rain events), it can overwhelm the capacity of the network and result in overflows and loss of service.

Smoke testing identifies breaks in pipes and manholes as well as locations where stormwater and other surface water can get into the wastewater system (inflow and infiltration). Once we identify the issues, we can repair or replace sections of pipe to avoid this issues in the future.

No, it is harmless white vapour, similar to smoke machines at concerts and doesn't cause issues for most people or pets. It will dissipate quickly and won't leave a residue or odour.

If your plumbing is installed properly, the smoke shouldn’t enter your home from the wastewater pipes. If it does, we recommend you contact your plumber to check for any issues and ensure your U-traps are working as they should.

If you do have some smoke in your house, open the windows and the smoke will clear in a few minutes.

If smoke does enter your house:

  • Open windows to allow ventilation and note where the smoke is coming from; it will clear in a few minutes.
  • Let the staff or contractors doing the smoke testing nearby know
  • Turn off any smoke alarms that may have been triggered
  • If you have any doubt as to the source of the smoke in your home or property and suspect a fire, please call 111.

Smoke coming into your property from pipes or drains inside your house may indicate there are problems with your plumbing so please contact your plumber as soon as possible.

Staff may need to come onto your property to observe any smoke points but will not need to enter your home. They will be clearly identifiable.

If you have received a notice, there are a few things you can do before testing starts:

  • Please ensure dogs are secured
  • Keep children away from the inspection area.

You will be able to continue using your household wastewater services (showers, toilets and sinks) as normal throughout testing.

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