Your Guide to Adding a New Drainage Connection

To properly manage water flow and ensure wastewater is directed away from a property, a drainage connection is needed. While most properties will already have an existing drainage connection, there are many reasons why a new one might be needed – perhaps you’re planning an extension, building a new home or simply need to make adjustments to cope with higher water usage.

Adding a new drainage connection can be a complex process that requires careful planning and execution to make sure everything is as it should be. With this in mind, the team at 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services has written this guide to help.

Do you need permission to add a new drainage connection?

Yes, before adding any new drainage and connecting it to the public sewer system, you will need permission from your local water authority. You’ll need to submit something called a Section 106 application; this is a form that outlines all of the important details, such as the reason you need a new drainage connection and the proposed location. You’ll also need to submit a site plan and planning drawings alongside this, as well as pay an application fee.

It’ll typically take around 21 days for your local water authority to review your application, and they may need to carry out an inspection or get in touch with your drainage contractor for more information – that’s why it’s best to call upon the services of a trusted drainage company, like 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services, as early as possible. Once your local water authority is satisfied, they’ll issue a ‘consent to connect’ letter, which means you’ve got the go-ahead to begin work.

It’s also important to note that if your new drainage connection will be located on public land then you will require further permissions.

What access points are needed for a new drainage connection?

When installing a new drainage connection, it’s important to make sure there’s a safe and convenient access point. This ensures that your drainage system can be properly maintained and is easily accessible in the event that something goes wrong. 

Access points can come in many different forms – such as manholes, rodding eyes, gully grids and inspection chambers – and they should be strategically located at the beginning of each drain run, at any bends or junctions and at any areas where the pipe changes size.

How to choose a reliable drainage contractor

Adding a new drainage connection can be a complex process and you simply can’t do it alone – you’ll require the support of a reliable drainage company. Not only will your drainage contractor complete all the necessary excavation and installation work, but they can also be on hand to support you before any work begins, offering guidance and helping you navigate the planning phase. 

When choosing a reliable drainage contractor, you should look for the following things:

• Experience: When you choose an experienced drainage contractor, you can take advantage of the skills and knowledge they’ve accumulated over the years – for a company to be in business for decades, they must be doing something right! Here at 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services, we have over 25 years of experience under our belt.

• Reviews: Does your drainage contractor have a trusted reputation in the local area? Would others recommend them? Of course every company will promise the very best service, so it’s best to check reviews from previous customers who’ve experienced their service first-hand.

• Services offered: Does your chosen drainage contractor offer a wide array of drainage services and can they cope with all the challenges involved with adding a new drainage connection?

• Credentials: If you’d like peace of mind that your drainage contractor meets certain industry standards, check which accreditations they hold. We boast a range of accreditations, including from the National Association of Drainage Contractors, plus health and safety credentials from Alcumus SafeContractor.

If your property requires a new drainage connection, the experts at 1st Call Drain Clearance & Technical Services should be your first port of call. We offer an extensive array of drainage services to domestic and commercial customers across Central London, Brentford and beyond – simply get in touch to find out more.