Self lay
Arrange for new water mains and service connections to be laid by a Self-Lay Provider.
Using Self-Lay Providers
Developers can now have new water mains and service connection works done by a Self-Lay Provider instead of asking us to complete the work.
The Self-Lay Provider needs to be accredited under the Lloyd’s Register Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS) and must meet the requirements of the Self-Laying of Water Mains and Services.
Once your development is complete, depending on the type of works, we’ll then adopt the water network.
Usually, water companies install mains and connect service pipes. Developers can still choose to lay mains and service pipes this way, but now also have the option to use a Self-Lay Provider to do the work instead.
There are some benefits to using a Self-Lay Provider:
A single contractor could install the water, gas and electricity supplies.
Self-Lay Providers can be more flexible in terms of timescales.
It can often work out cheaper.
Depending on the type of work, accredited Self-Lay Providers can make connections up to 90mm for mains or services.
Self-Lay Providers install pipes that vary between 25mm and 90mm in size and can connect to:
Pipes that are up to 12 inches in size.
Pipes that are made from Ductile Iron (DI), Cast Iron (CI), Steel Iron (SI), Asbestos Cement (AC), Polyethylene (PE), Barrier Pipe or Steel.
Pipes that are not considered ‘strategic’.
Pipes that do not require to be turned off in order to complete the connection.
The type of work Self-Lay Providers can and can’t undertake is outlined in our Annual Contestability Summary.
Get in touch if you’re unsure whether to self-lay or requisition mains and we’ll give you information on both options. We’ll also let you know which parts of the work can be self-laid and which parts cannot.
Self-Lay Providers must be accredited to the Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS). This means they work to national industry standards.
We’re unable to recommend a Self-Lay Provider, but you can find more information and search for a WIRS/MIRS accredited contractor on the Lloyds Register.
If you choose to use a Self-Lay Provider, we recommend that all parties read the documents linked to the principles of the code.
These codes make sure that new water and sewerage systems built by developers can be handed over smoothly to water companies and are overseen by Ofwat. Following these codes helps protect you, us, and the end user of the water supply.
Developer process flow – adoptions and requisitions |
The adoptions and requisitions process summarises what’s to be followed for a self-lay (adoption) or requisition scheme. |
Adoption procedures |
The adoption procedural flow diagram sets out the journey for stages 1 to 7.
Read these procedures together with the Water Sector Guidance (WSG) and Model Water Adoption Agreement (MWAA).
The minimum information document provides extra detail of the requirements for the Self-Lay Provider and water company at each stage of the process. |
Local practices |
As part of the Water Codes for Adoption, water companies need to publish their local practices where this is change from the standard practice. |
Design and construction specification |
Water companies are required to publish their Design and Construction Specification.
This document has been prepared to assist practitioners plan, design, construct and commission self-laid main and service pipes. |
Annual contestability summary |
Our Annual Contestability Summary sets out the contestable (green) and non-contestable (red) activity.
It also sets out activity deemed contestable where the water company can indicate its requirements to allow the Self-Lay Provider to carry out the task (amber). |
Redress |
You can view our Redress process for more information. |
You’ll need to keep us updated with your progress once you’ve entered into a Self-Lay Agreement. Everything you’ll need to do this is below:
If you need a source of water |
Send us a Form 1 |
When you’re ready to start laying the main |
Send us a Form 2 |
When you’re ready for the mains to be made live. |
Send us a Form 3 |
You’ll also need to complete |
· the Asset Data Update Form |
When you’re ready to make service connections |
Send us a Form 4 |
When the service connections have been completed |
Send us a Form 5 |
For approved fittings |
View our approved fittings list |
Application forms
For point of connection enquiries or feasibility studies, use our assessment form. You’ll receive an estimation of costs and a plan of local assets. You’ll not receive an outline design or legal agreement.
If you’re ready to progress straight to construction, complete our mains application form. You’ll receive an offer letter with a tendered quote and a legal agreement/requisition options document.
Use our design manual to make sure your designs meet our network specifications. If you need a different form, guidance or agreement, visit our application forms page.
Contact our Developer Services team
Get in touch if you’re unsure whether to self-lay or requisition mains and we’ll give you information on both options. We’ll also let you know which parts of the work can be self-laid and which parts cannot.