AS domestic flooding and overflowing drains have been featured locally and nationally, may I share my recent experience with Enfield residents? My property houses the 'inspection chamber' previously termed a 'manhole' for four houses which were built in 1930 with no previous problems, and ownership ranges from over 40 years to 18 years with no change in environmental habits.

One evening, noticing a foul smell outside, I called Thames Water fearing trouble and alerted my neighbour we discovered we were inches from sewage 'backing up' to our toilets and/or flowing out. I was told there would be a charge when I phoned Thames Water.

By the time the sub-contractor Sub Terra arrived we ascertained that pre-1936 homes could be cleared free of charge, after that the home owners (or occupiers) are liable for costs. This would mean that any occupant of the 'main' house would therefore either foot the bill personally if unable to divide it and/or collect it. Imagine those in a position unable to afford it and not culpable either.

We were advised that if the call-out man insisted on payment to ask for an invoice setting out a breakdown of findings and explain the responsibility of maintenance for sewers or surface water. This we did and no charges accrued.

However, apparently the mighty Thames Water is very remiss in routine maintenance which also covers the borough's many waterways hence a huge increase of flooding and instances such as my experience. Call-outs and emergencies are deemed much cheaper than ongoing dredging and flushing out. I wonder how many unsuspecting residents have paid up in full under the impression that the so called professionals and council departments were all running things efficiently and co-ordinating services.

A new A-Z glossy booklet produced by Enfield Council's Environment Services makes no reference to the facts in this letter.

NAME AND

ADDRESS SUPPLIED.