New water supply pipes
This section covers 25mm size connections off our existing water network to both new build houses and existing properties that have been refurbished or converted.
This includes:
- detached/semi-detached properties
- terrace/mews properties
- bungalows
If your application consists of two or more new build properties, you are advised to consider requisitioning a new water main, as this may provide a more economical and better engineering option. See our Builders & developers section for further details.
How do I apply?
You can apply for a water connection by completing the AWS1 Application for a Water Supply.
Meter location policy
Since 1990, every newly-built property has had a water meter installed and, since April 2010, the majority of new water meter installations are capable of being remotely read. This means access to the property is not needed to obtain a meter reading, so we can install meters in locations that are more accessible to customers and avoid issues associated with meter installations in the footpath or boundary. The available options are listed below:
How much will it cost?
Our service connection charge includes the work we will carry out to excavate, lay up to 2 metres of service pipe and connect the new water supply to our main. Where applicable, it also includes the installation of an AMR (Automated Meter Reader). The actual charge depends on the type of surface we have to excavate. An additional charge per metre of excavation applies for services over 2 metres in length.
Please see our Connection charges leaflet (PDF 3,645 KB opens in a new window) for further details.
Infrastructure charges
The principle of infrastructure charges recognises that every new connection imposes an additional demand on the overall capacity of the water supply and sewerage systems, and eventually those systems will need to be enlarged. Infrastructure charges are used to cover the extra demand on our existing network away from a development site. Infrastructure charges have been set based on our forecast of the network reinforcement investment required as a result of a new development and the number of new connections expected in the next five years. These charges need to be paid by anyone who wishes to build or develop premises where a connection is made either directly or indirectly to our existing network.
Please see our Connection charges leaflet (PDF 3,645 KB opens in a new window) for further details.
Contaminated land
All water companies have a responsibility to ensure water delivered for domestic purposes is of wholesome quality, without taste or odour. Where new water pipes are to be installed on land that is, or may be, affected by contamination, a risk assessment for water pipes should be carried out by the applicant for consideration by us.
Water re-use systems
We support the use of water re-use systems and encourage all our customers to be waterwise. Water re-use systems, particularly rainwater harvesting units, are becoming more and more common in both new and existing premises. These water re-use systems must be correctly installed and maintained, otherwise serious health issues may arise at the properties involved. Legally, water re-use systems must be designed and installed to ensure there is no risk to the end user and, in particular, must not be directly connected in anyway to the mains drinking water supply.
Domestic fire sprinkler systems
Domestic fire sprinklers can be fitted to new and existing properties.
