Maintenance of your water/sewage system is your responsibility from the boundary of the property. This sort of thing is normal but you can insure against certain failure. Solicitors should have told tenants they had a liability for maintenance and certain repairs. Private home owners often have a responsibility to upkeep and repair their Parish Church but many don't realise it. Solicitors can arrange a simple cheap insurance for this to prevent the shock of receiving a bill for any amount the Church chooses to demand if the think need arises.