Are you converting a property or changing its use?

Bristol Water requires all separately occupied new premises or premises where the use has been changed to be supplied by its own totally independent water supply pipe connected directly to the water main. This is a legal requirement under the Water Industry Act 1991 (the ‘Act’).

For more details on obtaining a connection for a new development, or to request an Application for Supply (‘AFS’) Form, please contact Bristol Water’s New Supplies Team on 0117 9341064.

Who does this apply to?

• New Developments – Developers creating separately occupied new premises without an existing water supply.
• Conversions – Developers creating separately occupied new premises by converting a property with an existing water supply into several parts e.g. flats/commercial premises where after the conversion the several parts will be fed from the same supply pipe.
• Land Sales – Developers creating separately occupied new premises by selling off parcels of land, where after the division, properties or water fittings (e.g. animal troughs) on either side of the boundary will be fed from the same supply pipe.
• Change of Use – Developers changing the use of separately occupied premises from domestic to commercial or vice-versa.

What happens if I don’t provide separate supply pipes?

• Bristol Water will find out from its billing, metering or other records.
• You will be served with a statutory notice under Section 64 of the Act to separate supply pipes within a 3-month timescale.
• If you fail to comply with this notice within the timescale Bristol Water has power under the Act to do the work on your property and recover the cost from you directly or, if necessary, through the Magistrates’ Court.

INFORMATION SHEETS

Conveyancing Solicitors, Auctioneers and Estate Agents.
Are your clients purchasing properties with an illegal water supply?
Click here for an information sheet designed for you.

Planning Agents, Building Consultants, Chartered Surveyors, Architects and Development Consultants.
Are you aware of your clients’ legal obligations regarding the provision of a lawful water supply? Click here for an information designed for you.