Sewer connection

Step 1

Before you apply

There are some key things you need to know before you’re ready to apply for a new connection.

Once you have considered each of these you are all set to send us your application.

BEFORE YOU APPLY

Step 2

Apply

How do I apply?

You’ll need to submit the following:

  • A Sewer connections application form.
  • A location plan –showing the site boundary in relation to the existing houses/roads and the proposed route of the new sewer connections, if you are connecting to a transferred sewer please indicate the position of the sewer you have located.
  • If it's a direct connection – your contractors details.
  • If it's a surface water connection – evidence why soakaways cannot be used.
  • An approval fee per connection – Depending on the number of and type of connection there is a different fee associate which can be viewed on our charges page:
    • A direct connection to a public sewer in public highway
    • A direct connection to public sewer in private land 
    • An indirect connection (to a private drain which then outfalls to a public sewer)

You can apply on the same application form for multiple connections to our existing sewers (provided they are for the same site).    

Apply online

Step 3

Approval

We will assess your connection requirements and check our existing network has capacity for the proposed connections. If there are any restrictions placed on surface water flows we will confirm these with you.

If we are happy with your proposals we will issue an approval letter for each sewer connection within 21 days of your request. It will confirm the connection details and the details of the sewer you are connecting to. This may be required by your local building control officer.

Step 4

Connection

Once you've received your approval letter you'll need to inform us when the connection is being made allowing 48 hrs notice.

Step 5

Inspect

If it is a direct sewer connection we will aim to attend site on the day of connection to inspect the work. If the work passes the inspection we will sign it off.

If the work does not meet the standard we will tell you on site what remedial work is required. Once this is complete please contact us and we will arrange a new inspection.

If it is an indirect connection we will not inspect the connection this will be done by your local building inspector, although it is helpful for us to know when they have been made.

Step 6

Adoption

Once the work is signed off by us, we'll issue you with final paperwork confirming who is responsible for the sewer. If the lateral drain leaves the property boundary and enters into public highway we will issue a vesting declaration to show we have taken responsibility from the public sewer back to the demarcation chamber (constructed within 1 meter of the site boundary). If all of the connection work is within the property boundary the sewer will remain the responsibility of the property owner but we will issue a letter to confirm we approved and inspected the connection.

We’ll update our records and billing information for the property. It's important we complete the process to ensure there are no issues if you sell your property and the property shows up correctly on any searches your solicitor will carry out.

If you require more detailed information on our process - please read our regulations and forms guidance page.