A build over sewer agreement is an essential document that needs to be obtained before construction work is carried out over or near public sewers. A public sewer is essentially a large pipe network that carries wastewater and sewage from homes, businesses and industrial areas to wastewater treatment plants for safe processing. If a sewer is damaged or collapsed, it can cause serious issues like flooding and sewage backup, which can be costly for the property owner.
A build over sewer agreement is a legal document that is required by law to ensure that the construction is carried out safely, without damaging the public sewer network. The agreement sets out the exact location of the sewer, its size, and its depth. The agreement also outlines the type of construction work that is proposed, and how the construction will be carried out to avoid damaging the sewer.
Getting a build over sewer agreement is important because it is a legal requirement under the Water Industry Act 1991. This act requires anyone who wants to build over a public sewer to get permission from the local water authority. Failure to get permission can result in hefty fines, and retroactive costs to repair any damages caused.
The process for obtaining a build over sewer agreement involves submitting an application to the local water authority. The application should include details of the proposed construction, a site plan, and details of the sewer location. The water authority will then carry out an inspection of the site to ensure that the construction can be carried out safely without damaging the sewer.
Once the application has been approved, the property owner can then proceed with the construction work, safe in the knowledge that they are not violating any laws or regulations. The agreement will also help to prevent any potential issues that could arise during construction, such as damage to the sewer network.
In conclusion, a build over sewer agreement is an essential document that property owners must obtain before starting construction work over or near public sewers. Failure to obtain this agreement can result in costly fines and retroactive repair costs, so it is important to comply with the Water Industry Act 1991 regulations. By obtaining a build over sewer agreement, property owners can ensure that their construction work is carried out safely without causing any damage to the public sewer network.
