If you're planning a new
driveway, one of the questions homeowners frequently ask is:
“Can I build over a drain?”
The short answer is
sometimes, but only if you follow the correct rules and seek permission where required. In the UK, drains and sewers fall under strict regulations, and ignoring them can lead to costly repairs, fines, or having to dig up your brand-new driveway.
Here’s what you need to know before starting work.
Who owns the drain? Private vs public
The first step is understanding whether the drain is private or public:
- Private drains: These only serve your property. In many cases, it may be possible to build over them with the right precautions.
- Public sewers or shared drains: These serve more than one property and are managed by the local water authority (such as United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, or Severn Trent).
You
cannot build over public sewers or shared drains without permission.
Since 2011, most shared drains automatically became publicly owned, so even if the pipe sits within your boundary, approval is usually required.
A drainage search or CCTV survey can be carried out to confirm ownership.
Do you need permission to build over a drain?
If the drain is public, you’ll need a
Build Over Agreement from your local water authority. This ensures that:
- The pipe remains fully accessible for future maintenance
- Your driveway construction won’t damage the drain
- Suitable materials and construction techniques are used
A professional surfacing company like
Premier Surfacing can help identify early whether permission is needed and guide you through the correct process.
What types of surfacing are allowed over drains?
Different driveway materials have different impacts on underground pipework.
Block paving
Often acceptable, but may require reinforced lintels or bridging over the drain to protect it. This keeps the drain accessible without disturbing the full driveway.
Tarmac
Lightweight and flexible, but still requires careful preparation to prevent excessive load-bearing pressure on the pipe.
Concrete
The heaviest option and usually the most restricted. Concrete can prevent access to drains and may crack if the drain shifts or requires repair.
A
professional driveway installer will ensure the correct depth, compaction, and protection around any drainage infrastructure.
Can a drain be moved?
Sometimes, yes.
Drains can be diverted to allow for a new driveway layout, but this must be carried out by a qualified contractor and approved by the water authority if the drain is public.
This option is usually more expensive, but it can provide a long-term solution where building over the drain isn’t practical.
Why professional advice from a surfacing company is essential
Building over drains isn’t just a case of covering them up and hoping for the best. If a drain collapses or needs repair later, you could face:
- Digging up your entire driveway
- Repair bills from the water authority
- A requirement to reinstate access at your own cost
Choosing an experienced driveway installer such as
Premier Surfacing ensures compliance with regulations and helps you avoid unnecessary expense and disruption.
In conclusion
Yes, you can sometimes build over a drain on your driveway – but only when UK regulations are followed, permission is secured where required, and the correct construction methods are used.
Before starting any driveway project, it’s vital to know exactly what lies beneath the surface.
At
Premier Surfacing, we’re a professional driveway installer based in Market Drayton, operating throughout
Shropshire,
Cheshire, and
Staffordshire. We help homeowners plan driveways correctly, ensuring long-lasting results that meet all drainage and building regulations.
Considering a new driveway? Get in touch with Premier Surfacing for expert advice you can trust.
