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Working on or near our assets

We’re committed to operating our network of water and wastewater pipes in a safe and reliable way, with the minimum of inconvenience to our customers. 

So, if you're planning works anywhere in the North West, before you start, please read the information below to check if it could affect our network. We can then work with you to help make sure your work goes smoothly.

Information on location of water and wastewater pipes

For companies that need to dig in the public highway there are maps available which show the location of clean water pipes and sewers. This information is restricted and you will need to apply to get access, please go to Maps for Safe Dig.

If you're a member of the public or a developer and you’d like information on drainage and water mains near or on your development, you can buy local maps. These are offered by a number of companies including United Utilities, if you would like to buy a plan from us please see our Property Searches service.

Below is general information on working near our assets and the precautions you need to take. There is also further information if you are carrying out CCTV work on sewers and/or manholes.

  • General conditions and precautions

    If you're planning significant work near our assets, it's important that you take precautions to minimise any risk of damage. We need to be sure that any activities taking place near our assets do not interfere with the service we provide to our existing customers.

    Please call us on 0345 072 6067 to discuss the work you plan to carry out. We will provide advice on how you carry out your work to ensure you don't cause damage to our assets.

  • CCTV work on public sewers

    If you need to carry out any investigation or CCTV survey work on the public sewer system, the Health and Safety of workers on the sewer network is our number one priority.

    All of United Utilities’ sewers come under the ‘Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations’ (DSEAR) and are classed as zone 1. As a result, all CCTV survey equipment that is used within the sewers needs to be intrinsically safe (Ex rated), so it does not ignite in a potentially explosive atmosphere

    All United Utilities’ sewers are classified as confined spaces from the point of entry, so personnel working in the public sewer network must hold current confined space training certificates.

    For access to work on our sewer network you will need to contact our enquiries team on 0345 672 3723 to arrange to speak to the local Network Drainage Engineer, who will assess the requirements for carrying out your work.

     

Damage to a United Utilities' asset?
If you suspect you might have, or are sure you have, damaged one of our assets, please contact us urgently on 0345 672 3723 (24-hours-a-day).

Contact us
If you need support or information when crossing or working near to United Utilities' assets, call us on 0345 672 3723 (24-hours-a-day).