Building over HWC assets

A “Build over Sewer” application is required when buildings are constructed within 1.5m of a sewer main. At Hunter Water we consider ‘build over sewer’ applications in two main categories:

• Single dwelling residential properties
• Residential properties (including duplexes and multi-residence properties), commercial and industrial developments.
  

The following information is only for single dwelling residential properties.

If you have a build over sewer issue for anything other than a single residential property, go to the Property Development section 

 

How the application process works

If you want to build over a sewer you should apply at one of our Customer Centres before submitting your building plans to your local council. You must submit at least one full set of plans with the application, but you may need to submit multiple copies, as some councils require more than one set of plans with the Hunter Water stamp on them. Check your council’s requirements for this before submitting your application to us.

We will then assess your application and write back to you with any relevant conditions or restrictions on the building application. We will process your application as quickly as possible, but please note that it will take at least seven days and can be up to one month from the time the application is made.

 

What can happen?

If an application is successful, and Hunter Water approves the ‘build over a sewer’ application, there may be conditions or restrictions placed on the construction. For example, some typical conditions include:

• Works do not interfere with, or obstruct the sewer in the carrying of sewage.
• It does not impose loading on the sewer.
• A minimum clearance of 1.5m is to be maintained between building and access chambers / shafts. If buildings prevent Hunter Water from repairing the sewer, the responsibility for repairs may fall on the owner. Further information can be obtained by contacting Hunter Water.
• All works are to comply with plumbing codes, for example, inspection shafts are not to be located within habitable areas.

While these are common examples of conditions, please note that under the Hunter Water Corporatisation Act 1991, Section 25, Interference with Works, Hunter Water has the right to impose conditions in order to protect its assets. Therefore, cases will be assessed on an individual basis and further conditions may be imposed.