Choosing a contractor with the right qualifications and approvals is an important consideration when protecting your main supply pipe bringing fresh water into your property.

WaterSafe accreditation provides homeowners with confidence that a contractor has demonstrated the required knowledge, training and confidence to work safely on the plumbing systems connected to your drinking water supply.

But what does WaterSafe approval actually mean, and why does it matter when choosing a contractor?

What is WaterSafe?

WaterSafe is a national accreditation scheme to recognise contractors who meet specific requirements for working on drinking water systems.

The scheme was introduced to provide greater reassurance for homeowners, businesses and property owners by making it easier to find professionals who understand the regulations surrounding water supply work.

Unlike general trade qualifications, WaterSafe focuses specifically on work involving drinking water systems and the standards required to protect water quality. 

For homeowners, this provides a simple way to understand whether a contractor has the appropriate knowledge and experience for work connected to the mains water supply.

What does WaterSafe Accreditation Mean?

WaterSafe accreditation means that a contractor has demonstrated that they understand the requirements involved when working on drinking water systems.

This accreditation gives customers reassurance that the contractor understands the importance of:

• Protecting drinking water quality
• Following relevant water supply regulations
• Working in line with industry standards
• Completing work safely and correctly

For property owners, choosing an accredited WaterSafe contractor can provide extra confidence that the work affecting their water supply is being carried out by someone who understands the responsibilities involved.

Click to see our WaterSafe listing and accreditations here.

Understanding Water Supply Regulations

Water supply regulations exist to help protect the quality and safety of the water that enters the property.

The Water Supply Regulations (or Water Fittings Regulations) set out requirements for how water systems should be designed, installed and protected to prevent contamination and misuse of water.

These regulations apply to a range of work involving connections to the water supply, which is why using a contractor with suitable knowledge and accreditation can be important.

A WaterSafe accredited contractor understands these requirements and can help ensure work is completed in line with the relevant standards.

Why Choose a WaterSafe Registered Contractor?

Finding a suitable contractor for water-related emergencies is about ensuring the person carrying out the work understands the standards involved. 

Not only does the homeowner have water supply pipe responsibility, but it is also their responsibility to hire a competent contractor to carry out any work needed on their water supply line. Understanding your responsibilities can help you make informed decisions when arranging work and selecting a suitable contractor.

A WaterSafe registered contractor can provide reassurance that they:

• Have recognised industry approval
• Understand water regulations and requirements
• Follow safe working practices
• Have demonstrated relevant competence

This can be particularly valuable when work involves the connection between a property and the wider water network, where compliance and safety are essential. It is always worth checking that any contractor you choose has the relevant qualifications and experience for the specific type of work required.

Avon Water Services – Supporting Safe and Compliant Water Supply Work

When arranging work connected to your property’s water supply, it is worth checking that the contractor has the relevant experience and industry recognition.

At Avon Water Services, we are proud to be a WaterSafe contractor, providing specialist water supply services for property owners across the midlands.

Our team focuses on delivering safe and compliant solutions for external water supplies, from leak detection services to lead pipe replacements. 

Contact Our Team Today.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is WaterSafe accreditation?: WaterSafe accreditation is a recognised scheme that confirms a contractor has demonstrated the required knowledge and competence to work on drinking water systems.
• What is a WaterSafe certificate?: A WaterSafe certificate provides confirmation that a contractor has met the requirements of the WaterSafe accreditation scheme.
• Are WaterSafe accreditation and plumbing qualifications the same?: No. WaterSafe accreditation focuses specifically on work connected to drinking water systems and demonstrates knowledge of the standards and regulations involved.
• Why are water fittings regulations important?: The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations help ensure water systems are installed and maintained safely, protecting drinking water quality and preventing waste.