Thames Water Build Over Agreement

Build Over Agreement Thames Water

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.

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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 Build Over Agreement?

If you’re a homeowner planning to build an extension, outbuilding, or even if you’re looking to sell your property, you may need a Thames Water Build Over Agreement to comply with regulations. This agreement is necessary if construction is carried out over or near Thames Water’s assets, such as drains or sewers.

• Homeowners Building Extensions or Outbuildings: If you’re planning a home extension, loft conversion, or building an outbuilding near Thames Water’s infrastructure, securing a Build Over Agreement is essential before starting your project. It ensures your construction meets safety and legal standards, protecting both your property and Thames Water’s assets.

• Homeowners Selling Property: If you’re selling your home and previous construction work—whether done by you or a former owner—didn’t get a Build Over Agreement, you’ll likely need a retrospective agreement before the sale can go through smoothly. This is especially important for work completed before 2011 when rules were different. Click here for more info on retrospective Build Over Agreements.

Need help with the process? Fill out our contact form, and an independent professional will call you today to guide you through securing a Thames Water Build Over Agreement, whether it’s retrospective or for a future build.

Application Process:

1. Check Feasibility: Before starting, consult with Thames Water to see if your project might impact their pipes or drains.

2. Submit Your Application: Send your plans and documents to Thames Water, showing your project meets their rules.

3. Review Process: Thames Water will look over your application and may ask for more details or changes.

4. Receive Agreement: If approved, Thames Water will give you a Build Over Agreement with conditions to follow during construction.

5. During Construction: Follow the agreement, do inspections, and notify Thames Water if anything changes.

6. Final Check: After construction, Thames Water will inspect the work. Any issues will need to be fixed quickly.

While this process is straightforward, it can be time-consuming and requires attention to detail. Want a simpler solution? Just fill in the form below, and a professional will handle everything for you—starting with a call today!

How much does a Thames Water Build Over Agreement Cost?

You might consider hiring a professional to help with your Build Over Agreement application. While you can apply on your own, the process can take time and may require technical knowledge or drawings you might not have. Professional help usually costs around £500.

As per the Thames Water website, the current build-over application costs are as follows:

Class 1: £105 – This is for sewers with an internal diameter of 150mm/6 inches or less.

Class 2: £445 – This is for sewers with an internal diameter of 151mm to 375mm/7 inches to 14 inches.

Class 3: £535 – This is for sewers with an internal diameter exceeding 375mm/15 inches.

Thames Water update their prices on the 1st of April each year.

These prices are correct as of 17/10/24.

Get Your Retrospective Build Over Agreement from Thames Water Quickly and Easily

If you’ve built near Thames Water infrastructure without permission, or if a previous homeowner did work before 2011, you might need a retrospective Build Over Agreement to make sure everything is up to date with current regulations. We can help you sort this quickly through our trusted partners, who will manage the entire process.

Just fill in the contact form below, and a professional will call you today to get started. Here’s how they’ll make it easy for you:

1. Quick Action: They handle everything, from the first check to getting the final agreement, making sure you meet Thames Water’s requirements fast.

2. Expert Help: Whether the work was done by you or a previous owner, they guide you through the process so you don’t have to deal with Thames Water yourself.

3. Stress-Free: They take care of all the paperwork and communication with Thames Water, so you don’t have to worry.

Fill out the form below, and an expert will contact you today to help with your retrospective Build Over Agreement.

Get help with your Thames Water Build Over Agreement Today!

Get a same-day callback with a local independent professional. They will address all your questions and provide the clarity you need.