When you're looking for a plumber, we recommend you select one which is a member of an Approved Contractors' Scheme.

Two such schemes are the WaterSafe and the Water Industry Approved Plumbers' Scheme (WIAPS). Individuals listed on WaterSafe or WIAPs are not employed by us, but do work closely with us to make sure their work is carried out to the appropriate standards.

Using an approved contractor will give you the following benefits:

• They are fully qualified to carry out plumbing work in homes and business premises.
• They have specific training in Water Fittings Regulations and Byelaws, so there should be no risk of poor installation or sub-standard materials that could cause problems later down the line.
• They will issue a 'work completed' certificate for their work, which provides evidence for property owners of what was installed.
• They hold public and employers' liability insurance.
• They'd be required to put their work right if it does not meet the requirements of the Water Fittings Regulations or Byelaws.
• They're audited to check they are complying with the rules of their Approved Contractors' Scheme.
• For most types of plumbing work, plumbers have a legal duty to notify the water supplier before they start work and this can lead to delays. Approved contractors can carry out some work without the need to provide advanced notification to the water supplier.