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Scheduled maintenance on the 'Works or issues in my area' map will take place this evening, from 7:30pm to 10:00pm. We’re sorry for any impact on service this may cause during this time.

A Clancy Repair Team engineer carrying out repairs on a street on a bright day

Self-lay schemes

When it comes to new water mains for your development, we can lay them, or you can use your own contractor, known as a self-lay provider (SLP). Once your development is complete, we’ll adopt the water network as long as it meets the guidance below.

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Codes for adoption

In January 2021, Ofwat introduced a standard practice across the water industry in England. Water companies need to follow this when adopting self-laid mains.

This standard practice is known as the water code for adoption and is also referred to as ‘the codes’. You can find out more on the Water UK website.

When finding a self-lay provider, it is important that they are accredited. Self-lay providers must be accredited by the Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS). This ensures all work is completed to national industry standards. You can find a WIRS-accredited self-lay provider, along with information about self-lay schemes, on the Lloyd's Register website.

Apply for a new water main

If you need a new water main to service your site and would like us to lay it, you can apply for one here.

Find out more

Self lay scheme process: lay a new main

The guide below explains how to work with self-lay providers. You can find out how much we charge for these applications in our New Connections Charging document. If you’re a self-lay provider looking to complete a development in our network, here are the steps to help you with your project. We'll keep in touch throughout the process to make sure everything runs smoothly.

1

Pre-planning enquiry

Before applying to lay a new main, you should first apply for a pre-planning enquiry with us. This allows us to plan for future network capacity requirements. It also helps you make an informed choice on which delivery route is best for your site.

2

Apply online

You can apply online using the GetConnected portal. Simply log into your account and select the option 'lay a new main'. During your application, please let us know whether you intend to design the main yourself or wish for us to design it for you.

3

Confirmation of the point of connection

Next, you can submit your mains design or confirm your request for us to design and pay the relevant fee. If you are designing your own main, it's mandatory to have an identified point of connection for your design. Please ensure that you have this before submitting your design.

Request a callback

We know that every project is different. If you need further assistance, please use this form to request a callback from our team.

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