Developer services
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
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...
Why do I have low pressure?
If you’ve noticed sudden low pressureThere could be a few reasons for this, a burst main for example that is causing a sudden dip in your pressure or flow. You will need to carry out a few checks: Check if the low pressure is only affecting your hot water, this would indicate an internal plumbing problem and you’ll need to contact a plumber. Approved plumbers can be found through WaterSafe or on...
How much does a new water connection cost?
We’ll provide you with a quote which will be specific to your connection requirements after we’ve completed a site survey. The quote will be made up of: Connection costs (all work, materials required for us to make connection) Traffic management (depending on the location of our water main, there will be costs involved in managing the traffic) Infrastructure charges (all properties connecting to...
Can I swim in your reservoirs?
No, swimming isn’t allowed in any of our reservoirs. There are however many recreational activities including wakeboarding, sailing and windsurfing available through South West Lakes Trust.
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.
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 apply for a new water supply?
We’ll send you an application form and information pack in the post; we’ll call you back to arrange this. Please complete the details in our Arrange a free call back section on the right. When you’ve completed the form, we’ll contact you within 3 working days of receiving it, to arrange a site survey. There’s more information here about our new water connection process. If you require new supplies...
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’...