Damaged utility covers and manholes

We are not responsible for manhole covers located on private property, or those belonging to utility companies, even if they are on public roads and pavements.

Who is responsible?

Utility companies are responsible for their own equipment on roads and pavements. If you see damage to any of the following, please get in touch with the relevant company.  

Examples of manhole and utility covers

• BT cable manhole cover
• BT cover
• Electric box cover - SP Energy Networks
• Electricity manhole cover - SP Energy Networks
• Water stop tap box - United Utilities
• Water meter box cover - United Utilities
• Fire hydrant cover - United Utilities
• CATV cover - Virgin Media
• CATV manhole - Virgin Media
• Gas cover - Cadent Gas Network

How do I report damage?

Contact the utility company directly to report damage. If it is dangerous, such as exposed wires or missing covers, phone them immediately. Do not report dangerous issues online.

Report damage to a water, fire hydrant or sewage cover (United Utilities)

Report damage to an electricity cover (SP Energy Network)

Report damage to a gas cover (Cadent)

Report damage to a BT cover (Openreach)

Report damage to a CATV cover (Virgin Media)

Not sure who is responsible?

If you don't know who owns the missing or damaged manhole cover, report it to us.

Please send a photo of the damage and nearby landmarks, if possible. Only take a photo if it is safe.

• If you have a 'My Account', you can keep track of your report if you are signed in. If you don't have an account, you can create one.
• You can submit your report without an account, but if you don't leave your contact details we cannot update you on the case.
• If someone has already reported the issue in the same location, you can subscribe for updates.

Report a damaged or missing manhole cover [JADU FORM]

What happens next?

We will contact the relevant utilities company to report the damage and request that they attend the site as a matter of urgency.