Commentary on Sections Section 6: Connection of drains and private sewers to public sewers: adoption agreements
Section 6 limits the right, conferred by Article 163 of the 2006 Order, to connect to a sewer. The Section introduces a requirement to enter into a sewer adoption agreement within the meaning of Article 161 of the 2006 Order (agreements to adopt sewer, drain or waste water treatment works at future date) as a condition of that right. This is in order to enable NI Water (i) to set the standards to which the private sewerage, including any necessary sustainable drainage system, must be constructed and (ii) to require an appropriate security (such as a bond). Provided the agreed construction standards are met, connection may not then be refused by NI Water. A mechanism for appeals to the Regulator about any issue regarding the sewer adoption agreement is also included.