OUTSIDE YOUR HOME

OUTSIDE TAPS AND HOSEPIPES

A hosepipe connected to an outside tap can present a major risk to water quality in the home. If
there is a sudden reduction in mains pressure, contaminated water could be sucked back through the
hosepipe into your home. This is easily prevented by fitting a double check valve (non-return valve) at
the outside tap, or on the pipe to the outside tap, to protect your water supply.

KEY WATER TIPS:
• Outside taps should be protected with a double check valve to
prevent backflow. New hose taps are available with a double
check valve built into the tap. Separate double check valves are
also available
• Never place the hosepipe outlet into drains, garden ponds,
buckets or watering-cans containing chemicals like fertilisers or
pesticides.
• Hosepipes should be fitted with a self-closing flow control (such
as a trigger spray gun) and be hand-held when in use.

CHEMICAL SPILLS ON YOUR DRIVEWAY OR GARDEN

In most modern houses, the pipe connecting the property to the water main in the street will be made
of plastic (typically black alkathene or blue MDPE). Plastic is used because of its flexibility and
resistance to leaks.

Products such as heating oil, petrol, diesel and creosote contain chemicals that can rapidly soak
through the driveway or soil and penetrate plastic water pipes, causing unpleasant tastes and
odours. You should therefore take care not to spill any chemicals or fuel on the ground above the
pipe that supplies your property. Once soil and plastic pipes become contaminated in this way, the
only solution is to completely replace the pipe with either a metal or barrier pipe system. This is a job
for a professionally qualified plumber.

If you become aware of a chemical spill, for example, if a vehicle leaks a lot of oil or fuel on your
driveway or you have a spillage of heating oil, remove as much as possible straight away. If the
spillage is extensive you should contact your local authority which may have services to help you.
If you become aware of an unusual taste or odour to your water supply following a chemical or fuel
spill, contact your local water company immediately and they will provide advice on the best way
forward.

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