Self laying water mains and service connections
You can have new water mains and service connection works done by a Self-Lay Provider instead of asking us to complete the work. We've summarised these works in our Simplified Contestability Matrix.
The Self-Lay Provider needs to be accredited under the Lloyd’s Register Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS) and must meet the requirements of the Self-Laying of Water Mains and Services.
Once your development is complete, depending on the type of works, we’ll then adopt the water network.
Usually, water companies install mains and connect service pipes. Developers can still choose to lay mains and service pipes this way, but also have the option to use a Self-Lay Provider to do the work instead.
There are some benefits to using a Self-Lay Provider:
A single contractor could install the water, gas and electricity supplies.
Self-Lay Providers can be more flexible in terms of timescales.
It can often work out cheaper.
Depending on the type of work, accredited Self-Lay Providers can make connections up to 90mm for mains or services.
Self-Lay Providers install pipes that vary between 25mm and 90mm in size and can connect to:
Pipes that are up to 12 inches in size.
Pipes that are made from Ductile Iron (DI), Cast Iron (CI), Steel Iron (SI), Asbestos Cement (AC), Polyethylene (PE), Barrier Pipe or Steel.
Pipes that are not considered ‘strategic’.
Pipes that allow connections without turning off the water supply.
The type of work Self-Lay Providers can and can’t undertake is outlined in our Annual Contestability Summary.
If you’re unsure whether to self-lay or to ask us to undertake the works for you, get in touch and we’ll give you information on both options. We’ll also let you know which parts of the work can be self-laid and which parts cannot.
Self-Lay Providers must be accredited to the Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS). This means they work to national industry standards.
We’re unable to recommend a Self-Lay Provider, but you can find more information and search for a WIRS/MIRS accredited contractor on the Lloyds Register.
You’ll need to keep us updated with your progress once you’ve entered into a Self-Lay Agreement. Everything you’ll need to do this is below:
| If you need water supply to your development | Send us a Form 1 |
When you’re ready to start laying the main |
Send us a Form 2 |
When you’re ready for the mains to be made live. |
Send us a Form 3 |
You’ll also need to complete |
· the Asset Data Update Form |
When you’re ready to make service connections |
Send us a Form 4 |
When the service connections have been completed |
Send us a Form 5 |
Application forms
Use our design manual to make sure your designs meet our network specifications.
For point of connection enquiries or feasibility studies, use our enquiry form.
You'll get a cost estimate and local asset plan, but no outline design or legal agreement.
If you’re ready to progress straight to construction, complete our mains application form.
You’ll receive an offer letter with a tendered quote and a legal agreement/requisition options document.
If you're planning to connect using a 25mm, 32mm, 63mm or 90mm service pipe, use this form.
We'll provide you with a connection point and a Section 51 Agreement to carry out the self-lay works.
(up to 90mm completed by a Self-Lay Provider)
Note: If the material of the main is unknown or made of PVC, we may need to carry out the connection for you.