Utility Connection

Utility Connection Provider

New options are now available within the new Retail connections market area.

A suitably accredited company called a Utility Connection Provider (UCP) can undertake new water connections activities and a range of metering activities in Scotland.

The scope of activities that may be carried out by a UCP is set out in The Water Industry Registration Scheme (WIRS) Requirements Document. View this document at: Lloyd's Register

The Water Connections Code for Scotland

For accredited providers who will act as a UCP,  The Water Connections Code for Scotland document is outlines the primary processes and requirements to undertake new connections work to a public water network. 

View the document and other important information below: 

Water Connections Code for Scotland 

Water Connections Code for Scotland Appendices 

Water Connections Code Appendix 3 - Data Catalogue 

Meter Code of Practice Appendices 

These documents provide the framework for UCPs undertaking non-household connection activities in Scotland. It includes all stages of connection activities from the application and planning stage through to notifications, site visits, testing, and the physical connection.

What is a UCP?

 A Utility Connection Provider (UCP) is a company which meets the requirements for accreditation and which has been assessed as competent in accordance with the WIRS scheme requirements.  The WIRS Requirements Document sets out the requirements that must be followed by an accredited UCP wishing to operate in Scotland. It also contains the main  references that govern the activities. WIRS is administered by Lloyd's Register on behalf of the WIRS Advisory Panel.  

How to obtain interim accreditation as a UCP from Scottish Water

There is a process in place to allow companies to work in this activity whilst still undergoing the accreditation process with Lloyds Regiser. 

To obtain more information you should refer to WIRS and complete the Water Industry Registration Scheme Interim Authorisation Application

Please submit this directly to our Development Operations department, please see our Contact Us page.

What is WIRS?

The Water Industry Registration Scheme was established to accredit and regulate Utility Connection Providers. This is a national scheme, and ensures regular audit and management of the activity of accredited companies which meet the standards set out for a UCP. 

Non-Household Connections - LP Engagement of UCP Service 

Under the arrangements, participating Licensed Providers (LPs), in the case of new connections to non-household premises, may instruct an accredited UCP to undertake the water connection and, where applicable, the installation of the associated revenue meter.  
Under these arrangements, the connection services and relevant metering activities must be undertaken by an appropriately controlled and competent UCP.  

Find more information:  Wholesale Services to Licensed Providers 

How does this affect Non-Household development customers moving forward? 

It is expected that this will provide additional choice for customers to select other providers, who are accredited to set levels, to provide the connection services to the public network, and complete the installation or exchange of new meters. 

If I choose to select a UCP, how will the process change? 

You should see no immediate difference to the main sections of the process when you apply for a non-household connection through your selected LP. The provision of the quote for the connection element of your site, if a UCP has been engaged, will be provided by the selected UCP company. 

If you are happy with that quote, work will continue as normal. The UCP will schedule and complete all necessary testing, and programme of works in conjunction with Scottish Water, and finally completion of the connection to the public network. 

To view the current suppliers available as LP's, please go to the dedicated business customer website scotlandontap.gov.uk

Scottish Water Inspections Requirements

Specified inspections through Scottish Water will continue to be a mandatory process. 

All standards and specifications must be adhered to, with particular focus on elements in relation to Public Health requirements.  When required your UCP or LP should prompt these inspections in accordance with current process.  Scottish Water will still act as the primary provider of the new connection service to the public water network for new non-household water connections. 
For any further inquiries regarding the process or terms of reference for the scheme, please contact the Development Operations Department on Freephone 0800 389 0379. Alternatively email: developmentoperations@scottishwater.co.uk.