When it comes to building over or near a sewer pipe or other utilities, Thames Water has guidelines in place to ensure the safety and integrity of their infrastructure. This guidance is laid out in their Build Over Agreement (BOA) process, which outlines the steps necessary for obtaining permission to build over or near a sewer pipe.
The BOA process involves several steps, including submitting an application to Thames Water, providing detailed plans and specifications for the proposed construction, and obtaining approval from Thames Water before beginning any work. It is important to note that failure to obtain a BOA from Thames Water before beginning construction can result in fines and penalties, as well as potential damage to the sewer infrastructure.
Thames Water`s guidance also includes specific requirements for the construction process itself, such as ensuring that the sewer pipe is adequately supported during construction and that proper measures are taken to prevent any damage to the pipe. This may include using a protective cover or taking precautions to prevent the penetration of any construction materials or debris into the sewer pipe.
In addition to the BOA process, Thames Water provides further guidance for building over or near their infrastructure, including guidance for building over water mains and guidance for building over sewers in sensitive locations, such as near environmentally protected areas.
Overall, following Thames Water`s guidance for building over or near their infrastructure is critical to maintaining the safety and integrity of their sewer system. Failing to obtain the necessary approvals and take the necessary precautions can result in significant penalties and damage to the infrastructure, not to mention potential harm to the surrounding environment and community. So, it is essential to read and follow Thames Water`s Build Over Agreement guidance when undertaking any construction work in the vicinity of their infrastructure.