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First-time sewerage

If your property or community relies on private sewer systems, like septic tanks, and they’re causing problems for you or the environment, you may be able to apply for a first-time sewerage scheme (Section 101a). Here, we’ll explain what’s involved and how to apply.

background

Can I request a new public sewer? 

You can ask us to build a new public sewer if: 

  • You own the property.
  • At least two existing properties will connect to the new sewer.
  • Your current means of disposing wastewater is causing environmental issues.

We’ll review your proposal against guidance from Defra and any other relevant factors. We’ll look at all practical ways to fix the problem long term — this could include repairing, maintaining or rebuilding the existing system, not just installing a new private sewer.

A new public sewer will only be provided if it’s the best solution. We’ll only reconsider our decision if there’s a significant change to the environment or there are issues.

New sewer connection (S106)

You can apply to design and construct a new sewer to connect to our sewer network. We’ll review your plans and if we’re happy with everything, we’ll let you go ahead with the work.

Sewer requisition (S98)

You can ask us to design and construct a new sewer for your property, connecting you to our sewer network. The sewer requisition application process can take around 12-24 months depending on the size of the project. You’ll be responsible for paying for the project. 

Apply now

Apply for first-time sewerage by filling in our application form.

Apply

Applying for first-time sewerage

Below you can find useful guides — please read them before you get started. We'll be in touch every step of the way to make sure everything runs smoothly.

Before you apply, have a think about: 

  • how many properties are affected
  • how wastewater is currently managed
  • any local problems, including a short description and evidence
  • why you believe a public sewer is needed and the requirements. Include this in your application with supporting documents.  

You don’t need to carry out tests or detailed studies, but if you have them, please share them as they help us understand your application. 

1

Complete the application form

Complete the application form and we’ll let you know when you can expect a reply.  

2

Initial assessment

We’ll check your application is valid and and will ask for more information if needed.

3

Considering solutions

We look at all options — such as installing a new public sewer or improving existing systems — based on Defra guidance, costs and environmental benefits. 

4

Decision

We aim to complete our review within 12 months. If it takes longer, we’ll keep you updated. If we refuse your application, we’ll explain why and how you can appeal to the Environment Agency. 

Useful guides and documents

Below you'll find specific documents and guidance to help you through the application process.

Enhancement Business Case SRN45: First Time Sewerage (S101A)

Download

New Connection Charging Arrangements 2025-26

Download

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Step 1: Applicant details

Please add your name, address, and contact details here.

Step 2: Correspondence details

Please add the contact details of where you wish us to send all communications, for example, if you are representing the applicant.

Step 3: Property details

Please use this section to provide details about the property, the current drainage arrangements, and how this might cause problems.

Step 4: Supporting information

Please upload any supporting information such as letters, documents, photographs and other evidence which might assist with your application.

Step 5: Representatives

Please add the names and contact information of any additional representatives here.

Step 6: Properties with defective drainage systems

This information will remain confidential to Southern Water and is solely for the purpose of assessing this application. Please provide details of remedial work which the owner believes would be necessary for the system to operate satisfactorily. This should include copies of builders' quotations, details of any work already undertaken, etc).

Step 1: Applicant details

Please add your name, address, and contact details here.

Step 2: Correspondence details

Please add the contact details of where you wish us to send all communications, for example, if you are representing the applicant.

Step 3: Property details

Please use this section to provide details about the property, the current drainage arrangements, and how this might cause problems.

Step 4: Supporting information

Please upload any supporting information such as letters, documents, photographs and other evidence which might assist with your application.

Step 5: Representatives

Please add the names and contact information of any additional representatives here.

Step 6: Properties with defective drainage systems

This information will remain confidential to Southern Water and is solely for the purpose of assessing this application. Please provide details of remedial work which the owner believes would be necessary for the system to operate satisfactorily. This should include copies of builders' quotations, details of any work already undertaken, etc).

Provision of a public sewer form
Provision of a public sewer form
Provision of a public sewer form

Please list addresses and reasons why defective

To what extent have householders in the locality been approached and is there any indication of the number who have expressed a willingness to connect to a public sewer if made available having regard to the costs involved in connecting private drains to a new public sewer

Please provide a brief description, together with a plan, of existing drainage arrangements e.g. septic tanks, cesspools, communal arrangements, private sewer. If there are already public sewers in the vicinity, Southern Water will be willing to provide a copy of the Public Sewer Map of your area for this purpose.

Please provide details as to the nature and extent of any adverse effects to the environment or amenity arising, or likely to arise, as a result of premises or the locality not being drained by means of a public sewer.

Provision of a public sewer form
Provision of a public sewer form
Provision of a public sewer form

e.g. leaking cesspool, ineffective septic tank etc.

Step 1: Applicant details

Please add your name, address, and contact details here.

Step 2: Correspondence details

Please add the contact details of where you wish us to send all communications, for example, if you are representing the applicant.

Step 3: Property details

Please use this section to provide details about the property, the current drainage arrangements, and how this might cause problems.

Step 4: Supporting information

Please upload any supporting information such as letters, documents, photographs and other evidence which might assist with your application.

Step 5: Representatives

Please add the names and contact information of any additional representatives here.

Step 6: Properties with defective drainage systems

This information will remain confidential to Southern Water and is solely for the purpose of assessing this application. Please provide details of remedial work which the owner believes would be necessary for the system to operate satisfactorily. This should include copies of builders' quotations, details of any work already undertaken, etc).

Get in touch

If you need help choosing which application to make, filling it out, or have any other questions, our team are happy to help.

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An illustrated outline of a headset

Request a call back

If you need help deciding which application to make or how to fill it out, or if you have any other questions, you can ask our team to call you back.

Request a call back
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An illustrated outline of a piece of paper with writing and a tick within a shield symbol

Submit a query

We’re here to help if you need us. Please fill in the form with as much information as possible to assist us with your enquiry.

Submit a query
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An illustrated outline of a hard hat

Contact the Developer Services team

If you need help deciding which application to make or how to fill it out, or if you have any other questions, call us Monday-Thursday 9am-5pm, Friday 9am-4pm.

Call: 0330 303 0119

Helpful links

Sewer requisitions

If your site doesn’t have easy access to our wastewater network, you can apply for a sewer requisition (Section 98) through us. Here you can find out about the application process for a new sewer.

Request a new sewer

Sewer connection

If you're building a house extension, a new home or a commercial building, or simply making changes to your existing drainage, you may need a new wastewater connection to our sewer network.

Find out how to apply

Sewer adoptions

We'll help guide you through the process of applying for the adoption of a new sewer or pumping station, so it becomes part of our public sewer network.

Apply for a sewer adoption