Thames Water Build Over Agreement

What is a Thames Water Build Over Agreement

A Thames Water Build Over Agreement is a contract between a property owner or developer and Thames Water. It allows construction near their infrastructure and specifies construction terms and duties.

When is a Build Over Agreement Required from Thames Water?

A build over agreement with Thames Water is required when you plan to build or extend a structure over or within 3 meters of a public sewer or lateral drain. These public sewers and drains are typically located underground and may not always be visible. Here’s when you would need such an agreement:

Building over a Public Sewer: If your construction project involves building directly over a public sewer. Public sewers are pipes that carry wastewater from more than one property.

Building near a Public Sewer: If your construction is within 3 meters of a public sewer, even if not directly over it, Thames Water may require an agreement to ensure that the sewer remains accessible for maintenance and repairs.

Building over a Lateral Drain: If the drain you’re building over serves more than one property but isn’t officially classified as a public sewer, you may still need an agreement.

Basement Construction: If you’re constructing a basement or extending an existing one close to a sewer, an agreement is typically needed.

Extension or Structural Alteration: Any significant alteration to your property that may affect the sewer or drain, such as adding an extension or conservatory, might require a build-over agreement.

This agreement ensures that the construction work does not damage the sewer or restrict Thames Water’s access for future maintenance or emergency repairs. Failure to obtain a build-over agreement when required can result in legal and practical issues, such as difficulties in selling the property later.

 

Importance of Thames Water Build Over Agreements

Getting a Build Over Agreement is crucial. If you do not have permission to build near Thames Water pipes, your construction might be delayed or demolition of the project may be ordered if it is not authorised.

Asset Protection: Thames Water’s underground assets are crucial for water and wastewater management. Build Over Agreements shield them from construction harm.

Safety: By regulating construction near water mains and sewers, these agreements help prevent accidents, such as ruptures or leaks, which can endanger public safety and disrupt services.

Compliance: Following Build Over Agreements ensures you obey the law, follow the rules, and meet industry standards. This reduces the chance of legal problems or delays in your construction work.

Accountability: These agreements define responsibilities for both Thames Water and the property owner, promoting transparency and accountability during construction.

 

Who Needs a Thames Water Build Over Agreement?

The property owner is responsible for securing a Thames Water Build Over Agreement. They can hire a professional for help. To find assistance, check our water board section in the top menu.

Property Owners: If you own a property and plan to carry out construction, extension, or any work that involves building over or near Thames Water’s assets, you will likely need a Build Over Agreement.

Developers: Large-scale construction projects, including residential or commercial developments, often require Build Over Agreements due to their potential impact on Thames Water’s infrastructure.

Contractors: Contractors hired by property owners or developers must make sure they have the right Build Over Agreements to follow the law and protect everyone’s interests.

 

Applying for a Thames Water Build Over Agreement:

We’ll outline the process for applying for a Thames Water Build Over Agreement, which is straightforward but time-consuming.

Follow the steps carefully or seek help from our preferred partners in the water boards section of our top menu.

Pre-application Stage: Consider a feasibility study before seeking a Build Over Agreement. Engage with Thames Water’s Build Over Team and other stakeholders to assess how your project might affect the water utility’s assets.

Application Submission: Property owners or developers must send a comprehensive application to Thames Water’s Build Over Team, including detailed plans, specs, and supporting documents, all showing they follow the rules.

Review and Assessment: Thames Water’s Build Over Team will assess the application, ensuring it meets the required standards and conditions. They may request additional information or modifications if necessary.

Agreement and Conditions: Thames Water gives you a Build Over Agreement when they approve your application. This document tells you the rules, what to do, and when to finish the construction. Before you start, you need to look at it and agree to it.

Construction Phase: During construction, the property owner or developer must comply with the agreed-upon conditions, conduct inspections, and notify Thames Water of any planned or unplanned deviations.

Completion and Post-construction: Once the construction is finished, Thames Water will check to make sure you followed the Build Over Agreement. If there are any things you need to fix, do them quickly to meet the requirements.

 

How much does a Thames Water Build Over Agreement Cost?

A Thames Water Build Over Agreement can cost between £400 – £500.

 

Retrospective Build Over Agreement Thames Water

You follow a process to get a retrospective build over agreement with Thames Water. This agreement is required when you build near Thames Water Infrastructure without permission. Here are the steps:

  1. Initial research: Take a close look to understand what you need for a retrospective build over agreement with Thames Water. Visit their website, read their rules, and get info for your situation.
  2. Contact Thames Water: Reach out to Thames Water’s Build Over Agreements team to begin. You can find their contact info on the Thames Water website. Explain your situation and ask what you need for a retrospective build over agreement.
  3. Application submission: Gather the needed papers following Thames Water’s rules. This might include building plans, engineering drawings, calculations, and other important info. Ensure your application clearly explains your project near or over the water infrastructure.
  4. Assessment and evaluation: Thames Water will check your application and see how it might affect their property. They might talk to their engineering team to check if it’s safe and possible. This can take a while, so be ready for potential delays.
  5. Negotiation and agreement: If Thames Water says yes to your application, they’ll contact you to discuss the rules for the build over agreement. You should talk about changes or things to make sure their stuff stays safe. 
  6. Legal documentation: Once you and Thames Water agree, you must make a written agreement. This means making official papers that say what each side can and can’t do. Talking to a legal expert about construction and infrastructure deals is wise to ensure everything is done right.
  7. Compliance and construction: Before starting any construction work, get all the required permits and approvals from local authorities. Follow the terms and conditions laid out in the build over agreement, including any safety measures or construction protocols that were agreed upon.

Remember that the process can vary depending on your situation and Thames Water’s needs. It’s crucial to stay in open communication with Thames Water for a successful result with your retrospective build over agreement.

Which areas are covered by Thames Water sewage infrastructure

Thames Water covers several counties in the southeast of England for build over agreements, as they are responsible for water supply and wastewater services in these areas. The main counties they cover include:

  • Greater London
  • Berkshire
  • Buckinghamshire
  • Oxfordshire
  • Surrey
  • Kent
  • Hampshire
  • Wiltshire
  • Gloucestershire
  • Essex

These counties include various cities, towns, and rural areas where Thames Water operates, so if you are planning any construction work near or over a public sewer or water main, you would need to seek a build-over agreement from Thames Water.

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