Extending a property
If you’re new to our services and you’re looking to extend your property, more information about your responsibilities, what you need to tell us (and when), and an overview of the process can be found here.
Our network runs under the ground all over our operating area, in streets and gardens, fields and land. So, if you’re extending your property, whether you’re building an extension or a conservatory, the chances are there’ll be a water or sewer pipe nearby.
That’s why you’ll need to let us know if you’re planning to extend your home, so that we can make sure your home, and our pipes, are protected during and after the build.
What's involved?
Pre-requisites
Before you contact us, please ensure you have covered the relevant pre-requisites.
Pre-requisites for extending your property are:
- Apply directly to your local council for planning permission or building regulations approval
- Find out where the water mains, lateral drains and sewers are before you start any work
- We can provide you with a sewer trace or you can contact a Safety Schemes in Procurement (SSIP) accredited contractor.
If you’re planning to build over, or within three metres of one of our sewer pipes or lateral drains, you’ll need to let us know – so that we can consider this when reviewing your application. For more information around building near one of our sewer pipes or lateral drains, click here.
Relevant applications
If you’re extending a property, what do you need to do and in what order?
Our detailed guidance notes are a good place to start and include more detail on the two types of consent that we offer and what we will, or won’t, permit.
If you meet the self-certify criteria, you can complete an application form and we will send you an email confirming whether your form has been approved.
If you don't meet the self-certify criteria, you'll be asked to complete a full application.
- Self-certification - A shorter process where you can 'self-certify' as long as you meet certain criteria in regard to how your work will protect our sewer network.
- Full application - A more detailed process, needed for more complicated or higher risk work, that involves a technical assessment of your proposals by our dedicated team.
Pay online
Make safe and secure payments for your applications online.
Track your progress
Track the progress of your applications online in our online portal.
Are you a customer in need of extra support?
If you’re converting or extending your property to make it more accessible for someone with physical impairments, then let us know on the ‘nature of proposal’ section of your application form. We can offer additional support such as helping you to fill in your application, and more advice and support through the building and construction process. To discuss your proposals please contact our dedicated Build Over Sewers team on 0800 917 2652.
Don’t forget, you can not start work until we’ve consented to your application.
Relevant applications
Build over sewer self certification
A shorter process where you can 'self-certify' as long as you meet certain criteria in regard to how your work will protect our sewer
Build over sewer form
A more detailed process, needed for more complicated or higher risk work, that involves a technical assessment of your proposals by our dedicated team
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