Residents in Bardon may see testing crews working around their properties as Urban Utilities carries out smoke testing designed to find problems that can allow stormwater into the wastewater network.
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The work forms part of Urban Utilities’ Wet Weather Overflow Reduction Program, which is being rolled out across priority areas in Brisbane and Ipswich. During 2026, delivery partners RAIN and Veolia are visiting tens of thousands of properties in selected suburbs, with Bardon included among the areas scheduled for testing.
The program is focused on improving the performance and resilience of the wastewater network during periods of heavy rainfall. Urban Utilities says extreme wet weather can overwhelm the network with stormwater, contributing to overflows in low-lying areas.
What crews will be checking
Smoke testing is being used to identify defects in wastewater pipes as well as non-compliant private connections. Urban Utilities estimates that around three quarters of stormwater entering its wastewater network comes from private properties. The utility also says its data shows one in 10 properties have non-compliant connections to the wastewater network.
Among the issues being investigated are roof downpipes that have been connected to wastewater pipes. These connections can allow stormwater into the wastewater system during rainfall, increasing the amount of water flowing through the network.
Crews will also look for low-lying overflow relief gullies, damaged or missing wastewater inspection opening caps, leaking or damaged maintenance hole lids, and cracks or breaks in wastewater pipes.
According to Urban Utilities, overflow relief gullies should be positioned at least 75 millimetres above ground level to prevent stormwater entering the network. Alternatively, an appropriate overflow relief gully cap can be fitted.
What Bardon residents should know
Urban Utilities said residents will receive notice before testing begins. A notification will be left in the letterbox ahead of inspections. Testing is planned for weekdays between 6am and 5pm. Crews may also work on Saturdays between 7am and 2pm if necessary.
There is no requirement for residents to be at home during the inspection. However, crews will need safe access to outdoor areas of properties, including backyards and wastewater maintenance holes.
The utility said property access will take place under the provisions of the South-East Queensland Water (Distribution and Retail Restructuring) Act 2009. There should be no disruption to household water or wastewater services while testing is underway. Taps, toilets and washing machines can continue to be used normally.
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Residents can also ask to see identification from Urban Utilities officers and its delivery partners. Urban Utilities says the locations scheduled for testing will be publicly advertised before work starts. The program is intended to strengthen network performance during heavy rain while responding to the pressures created by more frequent extreme weather events and population growth.
Published 18-August-2026
