Approved plumbers/contractors

As a result of the introduction of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, the Water Supply Byelaws have been replaced with new mandatory regulations, bringing to the water industry, for the first time, the recognition of the Approved Plumber/Contractor Schemes and Self Certification (Regulation 6). These are primarily administered by the water undertakers.

Under Regulation 5, if someone proposes to carry out work on anything other than a house they have a choice. They can either notify their local Water Company or use an approved plumber/contractor who will always issue a Water Regulation Compliance certificate. This certificate is important as it says the work has been carried out and the fittings used meet the strict requirements of the Regulations (it is similar to the new Gas Safe Certificate)

One of the key benefits to be gained by using the services of an 'approved' plumber is that he, or she, takes the legal responsibility for work carried out and the fittings used (as referred to in the Regulations), not you as the customer. The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 are law in England and Wales with it being a criminal offence to contravene the regulations.

Anglian Water has its own approved scheme called Aplus, with members operating across the Anglian Water region.

How to become an Anglian Water approved plumber/contractor

To become a member of Aplus, a potential member must hold a formal plumbing or heating qualification, such as:

• A time-served apprenticeship or proof of apprenticeship
• A City & Guilds qualification such as craft, final or advanced
• An NVQ in plumbing or heating i.e. 6089-02 or 03 in plumbing or 6088-02 or 03 in heating and ventilation

They must either pass Anglian Water's own Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 written assessment test or hold a BPEC, WRAS LOGIC, NVQ or City & Guilds in Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and produce evidence of public liability insurance cover - minimum cover £2 million if sole trader or £5 million if company - to achieve their approved status.

To apply to become an Anglian Water approved plumber/contractor call 01480 326917 or email us. Alternatively you can download our application form and terms and conditions below.

Water reuse systems 

Anglian Water fully support the use of water reuse systems and encourage all our customers to be waterwise. Legally, water reuse systems must be designed and installed to ensure there is no risk to the end users and in particular must not be directly connected in any way to the mains drinking water supply.

To find out more please see our water reuse page.