When a neighbor starts to develop his or her property, one can have concerns about below ground drainage. It is always reassuring in this situation to know that protection of the drainage systems prevents damage or obstruction. Hence allowing the property to hold up without problems in the future. The below article discusses ways through which below ground drainage can be protected during neighboring construction works and party wall surveyors role in this process.

The Building Inspector must sign off and test below ground drainage in accordance with Building Regulations. It is also necessary to have this done if the construction is within three metres of a public sewer. Which will need a ‘build over agreement’ with the local water authority who will inspect their own in any case.

While party wall surveyors primarily consider how below-ground drainage may be affected by excavation works during construction. They certainly help to prevent potential risk. That includes considering whether shared drains are being altered and minimizing the time during which drains may need to be temporarily blocked.

Party wall surveyors can have particular party wall award provisions that ensure below ground drainage systems are sufficiently protected. They may request the building owner arrange and pay for a CCTV scan of adjacent below ground drainage both before and after the works. This is usually a precautionary measure that helps in identifying any sort of damage. Construction activities may cause obstructions, but these issues will be addressed immediately.

In areas where actual threat of ground movement

Along with unstable soil conditions do exist, the need for a CCTV scan becomes all the more crucial. Similarly, the requirement to assess the below ground drainage condition in well advance will help to try. Also avoid any potential problems that might crop up during and after the construction process.

During construction works, we need to ensure effective safeguarding of below ground drainage by adhering to the provisions in the party wall award and cooperating with the relevant parties. These will help in reducing concerns and ensure that the works proceed well. Allied to good communication and a proactive approach towards risk factors.

Conclusion Below-ground drainage protection during adjacent construction projects can be quite wide-ranging, encompassing regulatory compliance, proactive risk identification, and transparency between parties. By embedding provisions within the party wall award and undertaking necessary inspections. Party wall surveyors are important for maintaining the integrity of drainage systems and ensuring peace of mind for all parties involved.