NWL has a rolling programme of works where we inspect certain types of premises to ensure the water systems meet the requirements of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.
The Regulations play an important role in protecting public health, safeguarding water supplies and promoting the efficient use of water within customers premises. The premises we visit are predominantly, but not restricted to, Fluid Risk Category 4 & 5 properties.
For further information on Fluid Risk Category’s please visit: www.waterregsuk.co.uk
If you feel your premises would benefit from a Planned Inspection please let us know at waterregs@nwl.co.uk
Why does Northumbrian Water need to inspect?
The inspection allows us to check whether your property’s plumbing meets the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 regarding its installation, design and maintenance.
It is the responsibility of water companies to carry out inspections which play an important role in protecting health, safeguarding water supplies and avoiding inefficient use of water.
Why has my property been selected?
Because your property has a connection to our mains water supply.
The selection of specific properties is determined by property type and when we last inspected.
Who is responsible to make sure a property meets the regulations?
The owner or occupier of a property are responsible for making sure the plumbing meets the regulations.
If you are a tenant, your contractual tenancy agreement should state who is responsible for the plumbing at the property.
Where do the water fittings regulations apply?
These regulations apply at all properties that are, or will be, supplied with water from a water company. This includes properties that also have a private supply (borehole or spring).
They apply from the point the property’s supply pipe (connecting the property to the water main) passes out from the public highway in which the main is laid into private land, typically the boundary of a property. The regulations apply to all plumbing and other apparatus (e.g. taps, softeners and appliances) that use mains water.
The water can’t backflow into the main, do you still have to inspect?
Yes, the Water Industry Act 1991 describes that water supplied must not be contaminated before it is used.
What happens if you find anything that doesn’t meet the regulations?
The inspector will record details of plumbing that doesn’t meet the regulations and explain how to fix it.
This information will be supplied to you in a report which includes timescales for the work to be done. An inspector will return to confirm the work is complete.
Can Northumbrian Water do the work or recommend a plumber?
If you are a business or commercial customer, contact your retailer, who provide your bill, and they will be able to help find a suitable plumber to carry out the work outlined in the contraventions report.
Plumbers can be found through WaterSafe who operate a directory of those registered with water industry recognised approved plumber schemes. These contractors are audited by water companies to check their work meets the fittings regulations.
What to expect from our visit
- We will not disrupt your water supply.
- We will carry out a free in depth inspection of your plumbing systems, checking where water is used along with any water fittings and appliances used.
- We will let you know of any issues whilst on site.
- We will produce a detailed report highlighting the improvements you may will need to make to bring the system(s) into compliance.
- We will offer you technical guidance on how to achieve compliance.
- We will agree a realistic time scale for you to complete these improvements.
What you need to do
- Allow us access to all parts of your water systems.
- Make available any site plans (if possible) and show us around the site.
- On receipt of the report ensure that it gets to the right person to action.
- Arrange for the work to be completed within the required time period.
- Contact us if you need further guidance or cannot complete the works in time for the re-visit.
Are you sure?
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