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Where do the Regulations apply?

Since 1 July 1999 in England and Wales, all plumbing systems, water fittings and equipment supplied, or to be supplied, with water from the public water supply come under these regulations. This applies to systems in all types of premises including properties that use a private water supply and have a mains backup provided by water companies. The regulations apply from the point where water enters the property's underground service pipe to the point the water is used. 

These regulations do not apply where a property does not have a supply of water from a water company. However, it is still good plumbing practice to follow the requirements of the Regulations. 

A legal duty is placed on all users, owners or occupiers and anyone who installs plumbing systems or water fittings to ensure they are installed and used in accordance with these Regulations. In most cases, advanced notice must be given of proposed installations, so architects, building developers and plumbers can ensure they follow the requirements of the regulations on behalf of future owners or occupiers. 

The application of the regulations cannot be back-dated. Any plumbing system or water fitting which was installed lawfully under the Water Supply Byelaws before the regulations came into force can still be used, even if its installation would not now be permitted by the current regulations. 

Plumbing systems: design, installation, operation and maintenance

The Regulations also cover the design, installation, operation and maintenance of a plumbing system including the fittings and appliances used. When a plumbing system is properly installed and maintained, it protects public health by maintaining water quality, ensure safety, ease of access and to prevent contamination from pipes and fittings, or by backflow.

Important Notice

Cold Weather

After a few freezing cold days in the North West, it looks like the temperature is beginning to rise.

As the weather warms up over the next few days, any frozen pipes in your home will begin to thaw. When this happens, some of your pipes may leak or burst. It's worth taking some steps now to be prepared just in case this happens to you.

  1. Check your pipes in any cold places such as the loft or garage - can you spot any water dripping from the pipe?
  2. Find your stop tap, which is usually under the kitchen sink and turn it clockwise to turn off the water.
  3. Turn off your heating, open all your taps to drain the system quickly.
  4. Soak up any escaping water with towels.
  5. Check with your home insurance company to see if you’re covered for leaks and bursts or call a plumber.
  6. If you need to find a plumber in your area visit www.watersafe.org.uk
  7. If water has leaked near your electrics switch them off at the mains.

For more help and advice if you have a frozen or burst pipe head to www.unitedutilities.com/winter.

Please think about your family, friends or any vulnerable neighbours and share this information with them too.

As the weather warms up, any frozen pipes in your home will begin to thaw. When this happens, some of your pipes may leak or burst. For more help and advice if you have a frozen or burst pipe head to www.unitedutilities.com/winter. Please think about your family, friends or any vulnerable neighbours and share this information with them too.

Cold Weather

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