There may be times when you need a supply of water outside of our normal service. In these instances hiring one of our standpipes could be the solution.
All of our 20mm standpipes are fitted with a meter to record usage and are stamped with an individual serial number to make them easily identifiable. They are also fitted with a double check valve and 20mm hose union bib tap.
To arrange a standpipe hire, please contact the Business Income Team on 0345 850 0514.
Standpipes are available for collection from two depots:
- Pity Me, Durham, DH1 5FJ
- Trenchard Avenue, Thornaby, TS17 0WQ
Our standpipes can only be used on washout hydrants. Details of the locations of these hydrants can be provided by our Operations Team by contacting them on 0345 717 1100.
Please note: the water supplied through hydrants is not suitable for consumption.
Prices for 2024/25
| Hire period | Hire cost | VAT | Hire total | Deposit | Total cost | Usage allowance |
|
1 month |
£135.00 | £27.00 | £162.00 | £240.00 | £402.00 | 10m3 |
|
3 months |
£265.00 | £53.00 | £318.00 | £240.00 | £558.00 | 30m3 |
|
6 months |
£414.00 | £82.80 | £496.80 | £240.00 | £736.80 | 50m3 |
|
12 months |
£692.00 | £138.40 | £830.40 | £240.00 | £1,070.40 | 75m3 |
| Additional usage is charged at £1.3921 + VAT per cubic meter | ||||||
Payment for the hire of a standpipe must be made upfront. We accept debit or credit cards (not AMEX), cheque, BACS or cash. A VAT receipt will be issued on receipt of payment.
What is a standpipe?
A standpipe is a free standing iron pipe which is fitted with a tap and non-return valve.
This can be attached to a wash out hydrant to obtain a water supply where there is no water source, for example on a construction site.
Where can I use a standpipe?
A valid license will permit the applicant to draw water from an NWL (Northumbrian Water Ltd) washout.
A washout is visually different from a fire hydrant (see above). Fire hydrants are strictly for use by the relevant Fire Brigade and come under their jurisdiction.
How do I use the standpipe?
Please click on the links below to view some video guides to assist.
Can I use my own standpipe?
No, it is a criminal offence to abstract water without the permission of the water authority.
This carries a fine of up to £1,000.00. Northumbrian Water are committed to taking action against those who choose to abstract in this manner.
What size standpipe can I hire?
We only hire out 20mm standpipes (3/4”) in our operational area.
If large volumes of water is required please make contact to discuss your requirements. Customers are strictly not permitted to use their own larger standpipe.
Will a standpipe key be included so I can turn on the washout?
Yes we can issue a key with the standpipe, which must be returned at the end of the hire period.
How can I pay for the hire of a standpipe?
We accept payments via debit or credit cards (not AMEX), cheque, BACS or cash.
When will my deposit be refunded?
On return of the standpipe within the agreed time, with no excess consumption or damage, we will refund the deposit promptly.
The standpipe must not be modified in any way, if the apparatus is returned in such a condition that it cannot be rehired immediately the deposit will be retained.
What happens if I arrange the hire of a metered standpipe but later decide that I no longer need it?
Please refer to our charges scheme for cancellation charges.
Do you offer a delivery service?
Currently, we cannot deliver standpipes to you, these can be collected from one of our depots:
Pity Me, Durham, DH1 5FJ
Trenchard Avenue, Thornaby, TS17 0WQ
Do I need to take care of the standpipe?
Over 100 standpipes were returned damaged in 2017, due care and attention must be taken to avoid losing the entire deposit.
The standpipe is Northumbrian Water’s property so this should not be modified in any way. This includes safeguarding against frost damage during the winter. Please note that Northumbrian Water’s decision on these matters is final.
How can I protect my metered standpipe from frost damage?
Please ensure the standpipe is drained after use by opening the tap and then rotating the apparatus upside down to allow any water in the meter to escape. In addition the metered standpipe should not be left outside or in site cabins or vehicles, where there is no insulation.
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