Awareness of plumbing notification laws

The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS), with the support of WaterSafe and UK water companies, has launched a campaign to raise awareness of plumbing notification laws.

In many cases, work on new and existing plumbing systems needs to be notified to and approved by the local water supplier before it can begin. WRAS want to ensure that anyone undertaking plumbing work knows the laws.

If you are having plumbing work done in your home, you may need to consider if they meet the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. These national regulations set out the requirements for plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using appliances and cover design, installation and maintenance.

They aim to prevent inefficient use, waste, unnecessary consumption or incorrect measurement of water and, most importantly, contamination of drinking water.

Julie Spinks, managing director of WRAS, said: "The UK enjoys high-quality, safe drinking water and we want to make sure it stays that way. Unfortunately, very few people are aware of their legal responsibilities to ensure certain types of plumbing work comply with these important regulations."

Gaining permission for plumbing work is quick and free. If you are unsure whether you need to obtain your supplier's consent before undertaking work, take a look at the WRAS notification page.

Water UK Communications
0207 344 1805