Since 1 April 2002, Building Regulations applications for new buildings and extensions that involve building over or within 3 metres of a public sewer, must be submitted using the full plans application procedure. Building notice applications are not accepted in such situations.

Thames Water Utilities (TWU) maintains that any drain laid before 1 October 1937 serving more than one property is a public sewer.

Applications for extensions to existing buildings and new buildings are checked against the map of sewers provided by the water board. This check is carried out as soon as possible and the applicant or agent is advised of the outcome.

Where a proposal is likely to be within 3 metres of a sewer shown on the map of sewers, TWU are advised as soon as possible and their observations are requested within the following 10 working days. Even if an application is invalid for whatever reason, TWU should be advised that the proposed works are within 3 metres of a public sewer.

We must allow 15 working days for TWU to respond, before issuing a decision, so that their observations or recommendations can be borne in mind in issuing our decision.

Applicants should bear in mind that TWU may impose additional requirements, so works should not start until TWU have made clear that they do not object to the proposal and had the chance to state what their requirements are if any.

TWU’s observations, if any will be taken into account in determining an application. A refusal or conditional approval may be issued under the Building Regulations. A copy of any such conditional approval should be sent to TWU, if a condition on the approval concerns the sewer.

TWU will be informed by fax if work commences prior to approval.

The power of enforcement of matters relating to public sewers rests with TWU and not with the Local Authority. Therefore the enforcement of additional requirements above those necessary to satisfy the Building Regulations is the responsibility of TWU.

Although Building Control are obliged to take due regard of TWU’s opinions, the requirements of the Building Regulations, for example for clearing access, must also be satisfied.

TWU’s contact details are:

Thames Water Utilities (Waste Water Connections)
3rd Floor, Clearwater Court
Vastern Road
Reading
Berkshire
RG1 8DB

tel 0118 373 9833
fax 0118 923 6613
email developer.services@thameswater.co.uk

This information was correct at the time of writing (September 2011).

Contact us

Building Control
Environment and Regeneration
Waltham Forest Council
Sycamore House
Forest Road
London E17 4JF
Tel 020 8496 3000
Email building.control@walthamforest.gov.uk