Can I build over a public drain?
Sewers are often located within the boundaries of private properties and sometimes within the vicinity of buildings. Therefore, householders and developers planning to build over or close to (within 3 metres of) a public sewer have to seek permission from the relevant sewerage company.
Is a build over agreement required for a private sewer?
Anyone planning to build close to (within 3 metres) or over a public sewer is therefore required to obtain permission from the relevant company. This also works to prevent damage to sewers – the additional weight of the new building could cause the sewer to collapse resulting in structural damage to the property.
Can I build over an inspection chamber?
If you are intending to build over an inspection chamber, it is essential to check whether you have permission to do so – in many cases, it may be necessary to move the chamber or have the pipes diverted, or to change the building plans to maintain access to the existing manhole.
Are United Utilities responsible for my drains?
Yes – you are responsible for your internal plumbing (e.g. toilets and sinks), the guttering and drainage on the outside of your home, and the underground pipe which takes all your wastewater away (up to the boundary of your property). Head to the WaterSafe website to find your nearest qualified plumber.
How to contact United Utilities sewers and drains?
If you’re unsure of your responsibilities, please don’t worry – give us a call on 0345 672 3723, we’ll be happy to help.
How does United Utilities work with Home Builders?
Whether you’re building your own house or planning a housing or commercial development, we’ll work with you to make sure your water and wastewater plans are right for your project. If you know which service you want, there is information on all of our water and wastewater services below. Before you start, check if your development is in our area.
What is United Utilities responsible for in the UK?
What United Utilities is responsible for: the big public sewers that take sewage and rainwater run-off to our wastewater treatment works (as well as the pipes from the boundary of your property up to where they connect into the public sewer). Shared drains where several properties’ drains meet together…
Are there foul sewers or lateral drains serving the development?
None 2.6.1 Are any foul sewers or lateral drains serving the development or which are proposed to serve the property the subject of an existing adoption agreement or an application for such an agreement?
