u/Accomplished_Use_365

Can anyone identify this manhole and tell me whether it’s my responsibility or the water company’s? Somebody fell down it. And he has filed a claim.

I’m currently in a dispute with my local water company in Wales after I was injured by a dangerous manhole located on my private property. This isn’t a small private inspection chamber — it’s a deep, brick‑lined public sewer access shaft with metal rungs, the kind normally maintained by the water company. The cover failed, I fell, and I injured my leg. Since then, my leg hasn’t been the same and I’m left with a persistent dull ache.

When I first reported the incident, the company rejected my claim immediately, saying they are a “reactive company.” This was before I had legal representation. I’ve since learned that quick rejections like this are common and often meant to discourage people from pursuing legitimate claims.

I’m now formally pursuing compensation for the injury and the long‑term impact it’s had on my mobility. The company has been slow and dismissive throughout the process, and I’m trying to understand my rights, whether similar cases exist, and what to expect if this ends up in court.