Can you build over a sewer Thames Water?

A Thames Water build over agreement is required for any excavation works within 3 metres of a public sewer or drain. Alternatively, Thames Water may require that the proposed foundations are constructed at a safe distance from the sewer or drain, thereby avoiding the risk of damage.

Do I need permission to build over a drain?

It should be remembered that the Building Regulations state that in some soils, such as sands or silt, buildings must not be constructed over or within 3m of a drain unless special measures are in place. Buildings and extensions should not be constructed over a manhole or inspection point on a sewer.

Can you build over drain pipes?

Building over an existing drain or sewer can damage pipes, so that they leak or block, potentially leading to odour nuisance, health problems and environmental damage. It also makes it more difficult, time consuming and expensive to clear blockages and to repair or replace faulty drains.

Can you build an extension over a drain cover?

Any building over a manhole cover is prohibited. It would be advisable to consider whether the plans for your conservatory could be altered so that the construction is at least three metres away from the sewer or manhole cover.

What happens if no build over agreement?

If no Build Over Agreement was entered into then the seller should have a CCTV survey of the sewer carried out and forward the footage to the Water Company. If the Water Company is satisfied the sewer is in good condition, they will issue a comfort letter confirming the sewer is in satisfactory condition.

Can you build over water main?

Building over water mains is not permitted because they need to be accessible for maintenance and repair, and because of the structural damage that a burst water main could cause.

What is the minimum depth for drainage pipe?

Pipes laid at depths less than 600mm and which are not under a road should, where necessary, be protected against damage by placing over them a layer of concrete, paving slabs or similar. A minimum 75mm cushioning layer of granular material must be laid between pipes and the slabs or concrete.

Do drains run under houses?

Generally speaking, you’re usually responsible for drains inside the boundaries of your property, while the sewerage company is responsible for lateral drains, which are usually outside of property boundaries, and sewers. Although most sewers are now publicly owned, there are still some private or unadopted sewers.

How deep do drain pipes need to be?

Maintaining a depth of 12 to 18 inches is best for drain pipes, but the depth of the pipe may vary in order to maintain a downward slope, which is critical for proper drain functioning.

How much does it cost to move a drain for an extension?

You also need to factor in the cost of getting permission from the local water authority to move the drain, which can be between £200 and £1,300. On average, you can expect to pay between £1,200 and £3,000 to move a drain for an extension. More complex jobs can cost up to £4,500.

Can you get a retrospective build over agreement?

A sewerage undertaker can refuse to grant a retrospective build over agreement. If they refuse then insurance is unlikely to be available. Even if consent is granted, the homeowner may be requested to make changes to the property which could result in significant cost being incurred.

How long does an indemnity policy last?

Indemnity insurance has a one-off fee and never expires. Indemnity insurance is not just limited to sellers. Buyers can purchase a policy instead of rectifying defects in a property.

When did Thames Water start building lateral drains?

All sewers and lateral drains constructed before 1 July 2011 and which connect to our network are all part of the public sewerage network owned and maintained by Thames Water. There are different applications for different sizes of sewer.

How did Thames Water get the right to use public sewers?

Thames Water has statutory powers, which gives us the right to maintain, repair, replace and renew public sewers on private land under Section 159-171 of the Water Industry Act 1991.

Can you build an extension over a public drain?

Any drain that solely serves your own property will be classed as private. You can build over a private drain. Building control will inspect the pipework and approve the works as part of your extension. A public drain is a different matter.

Is it possible to move one drain in a house?

Drains are a common problem in building works, but the good news is that rerouting them and moving them is possible. However, drains are part of complex networks of pipework, sewers and manhole covers, so it isn’t always a matter of moving just one drain.