Developer services
IMPORTANT NEWS - With effect from the 1 April 2018 the way that Developer Services charge for their work is changing. Please click here to find out more.
Our dedicated Developer Services team provide a cost effective service to any scale of development, from new domestic and commercial developments to agricultural or replacement water supplies.
The options below will take you through each of the steps to ensure the right connection is made in a timely manner.
Frequently asked questions
Developer services
Popular
Why do I have no water?
There could be a few reasons for this: Emergency work on a burst main Planned work where we’ve notified you in advance An airlock in your system following work An issue with your internal plumbing Neighbours carrying out work on a joint supply Have a look at our In your area site to find out if there’s any work causing no water. If you can't find any, you may want to check with neighbours to...
How do I change or remove a name on my bill?
We can call you back to discuss changes to your name because you’ve got married, adding or removing a person to your bill account or correcting a billing address.Please complete the details in our Arrange a free call back section on the right.
What area do you serve?
We provide water and sewerage services to Devon, Cornwall and small parts of Dorset and Somerset. Our region is nearly 4,300 square miles (11,137 square kilometres) in size. There are 1.6 million residents and around 5 million visitors a year. We provide clean water to 97% of people, 3% have private supplies. We take away used water from 88% of people, 12% have private sewerage arrangements like...
How can I save water?
By taking simple steps like spending one minute less in the shower or turning the tap off while you brush your teeth, can set you on track to start saving water. To help you save water around the home, we’ve teamed up with savewatersavemoney to offer a FREE water-saving kit. Flush-saving devices, showersavers, timers and tap inserts are available to help reduce water usage. You can read more about...
Building near to
Can I build over a public sewer?
Yes, if your extension or proposed building work is over or within 3 metres of a public sewer or lateral drain, you’ll need to let us know. You’ll need to check our guidance notes to ensure you meet the criteria and if so, complete the Declaration of works form online and return to us by email. If you’re unable to meet the criteria, you can complete the Enquiry to build over/close to public...
Can I build over a water main?
No, you are not permitted to build within 3 metres of a public water main as we must have unrestricted access to repair, maintain or renew our main when required. There are further details of an alternative process (water main diversion) within our Guidance notes.
Why do I need permission to build over or close to a public sewer?
We need to approve your proposal of works (even if you have already had planning permission granted) as your building could cause damage or prevent access to the sewer. Some conservatories and minor works don’t always need planning and/or building regulation approval, but if you plan to build over or close to a public sewer please contact us for advice. You'll find more information here.
What if my extension was built over a private sewer before 1 October 2011?
If the property was built before the transfer of private sewers to us on 1 October 2011, the works are legal as there would have been no need for approval before this date. There's more information here on building over a public sewer after this date.
New water connection
Can I separate my shared supply?
Yes, if you would like to separate your supply from a shared supply you can apply for a new connection. We’ll give you a 20% discount (up to a maximum of £250) on our charges for the work that’s required to install and connect our part of the new supply pipes to the water main. For any alterations required on your private supply or plumbing, you’ll need your own plumber. Approved plumbers can be...
How deep does my pipework need to be laid?
If you or your contractor are laying your own supply pipe, it needs to be laid: A minimum depth of 750mm of coverA maximum depth of 1350mm of cover (We wouldn’t recommend any particular depth, as long as it’s laid within these depths) Approved plumbers can be found through WaterSafe or on the Water Industry Approved Plumber Scheme WIAPS.
How do I get a new or replacement water connection?
Take a look at our new or replacement water connection pages to find more information about this service, including how to apply, an explanation of the process and charges. When you've completed our application form, we'll contact you in writing within 5 calendar days of receiving it. Following this we will contact you to arrange a site survey. If you require new supplies for more than 2...
How do I pay for my new water connection?
You can pay by: Credit/Debit Card – 0344 346 2020 (between 8:30-4pm Monday – Friday) Please allow 1 working day for payment to process BACS Lloyds TSB Bank PlcCity Office, Corporate & InstitutionalPO Box 72Bailey DriveGillingham Business ParkKent ME8 0LS Bank Sort Code 30-00-02Bank Account Number 00456492Bank Account Name - South West Water Ltd, Collection AccountFor reference, please enter ‘NC’...