If you want to build a conservatory in the UK, you will have to consider whether there are any public sewers near your property. If there is, you may need to ask the local water authority for permission before you begin.
There are two main types of water supply in the UK. There are private drains, and there are shared drains. The latter are owned and maintained by a local water company. Your local water authority will have specific criteria for building over a shared drain. The larger the drain, the more restrictions you may need to adhere to.
In general, the most important point to remember is that you must have permission before you can undertake any construction work. The process of obtaining this permission can be straightforward or complex. Depending on your local water company, they may require you to apply for a “build over notice” or require you to submit a “building regulations application. In some instances, a company designing the conservatory may also need to apply on your behalf.
There are also certain requirements for other types of construction that aren’t directly related to your conservatory. If you’re building a garage or a shed, you should also get approval. There are various forms of approval you can choose from, so it’s important to learn what you need to get started.
The most important requirement for constructing a conservatory is finding out if there is a public sewer near your home. If you do, you need to make sure that you get a plan that will bridge over the existing pipe. If you don’t, the resulting foundations could damage underground pipes.
The best way to find out whether there is a public sewer nearby is to ring up your local water authority. This isn’t always an easy task, but it’s well worth the effort. The water company will likely have a customer guide that outlines the steps required to complete a project. You should also look into the possibility of building over a manhole, which isn’t necessarily an impossible task. However, the weight of your proposed foundations could cause the sewer to collapse. The water company might even demolish your structure to gain access to the pipes.
The other big question when it comes to conservatories is, “Can I build over a main sewer?” If there is, you need to ask your local water authority. The answer is usually yes, but it’s a case-by-case basis. If you do decide to build a conservatory over a main sewer, you’ll need to contact the water company and ask for a “build over notice.” The water company will tell you what to do and will provide a letter of approval.
A conservatory is a great addition to your home. It adds extra living space, and increases your homes value. But if you are considering a conservatory and you’re worried that it might impact your underground pipes, you can use the following tips to avoid common pitfalls.
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