Repairing a separate supply pipe

A repair can be effective if the leak is small and the pipe is in good condition. Supply pipes are privately owned so we do not hold information of their location but if you ask us for help, we will assess the leak.

A repair can probably be made by Three Valleys Water. If we believe there is a good chance of locating the pipe and making a repair, we will dig down to try to find the leak. If at all possible, we will carry out a repair, although in some instances, this may only be temporary in nature e.g. if we believe the pipe is in poor condition and should be replaced. The decision on whether to go ahead and attempt a repair is at our discretion though if we do go ahead, the work is free of charge. If the repair we make is permanent, you will be entitled to a second free repair attempt if it is needed later on provided that we still believe the pipe is in good enough condition.

A repair cannot be made by Three Valleys Water. If when we try to dig down to the leak we find the path is obstructed or we cannot locate the pipe, we will abandon the repair attempt. We will refill the hole and make it safe. We will not reinstate the surface e.g. tarmac drives, planting etc. In all cases, we will advise you of the actions you should take next. This may include technical advice as well as information on finding a suitable contractor.

A replacement is recommended: If we have recommended that you replace the pipe and you choose not to do so, you should note that: You must arrange and pay for any repair work yourself; If you pay for water charges based on a metered supply, you will not be entitled to an allowance for the cost of lost water if there is another leak.

What happens if you don’t carry out the work needed? The waste of water is unacceptable. We will allow you a reasonable length of time to stop the leakage but if the repair or replacement is not carried out within 21 days, we will arrange for a contractor to carry out the work. If this happens, we will charge you for the work and will add all of our costs to the bill. Please note that if the leak is causing a serious risk to health or property, we may have no alternative but to turn the whole supply off without prior notice to you and we will write to you to advise the stops you must take before the supply can be turned back on.