Introduction
Singapore is renowned for its well-managed water supply and sewerage systems. For private homeowners, maintaining these essential services involves navigating regulations and coordination with the appropriate authorities. This article provides a detailed overview of how water supply and sewerage works in Singapore’s private housing sector, including who to contact and required permits as of 2024.
Understanding Water Supply in Private Houses
Water supply to private houses in Singapore is primarily regulated and managed by the Public Utilities Board (PUB), Singapore’s national water agency responsible for ensuring clean and reliable water distribution.
Connection Process
For those building new private homes or undertaking major renovations involving water systems, an application for water supply connection is mandatory. The process involves:
- Application Submission: Homeowners or developers must submit a formal request to PUB for a new water supply connection.
- Site Inspection: PUB conducts a site inspection to assess feasibility and advise on the connection point.
- Installation by Licensed Plumber: Installation of internal plumbing and external service connections must be completed by a plumber licensed under PUB’s Water Services Industry. This ensures compliance with technical and safety standards.
- Testing and Approval: Once installed, the system undergoes testing for watertightness, pressure, and backflow prevention before final approval.
- Installation of Water Meter: PUB installs the water meter to commence billing.
Who to Contact
- PUB Water Supply Enquiries: For new connections or maintenance issues related to the water supply, contact PUB via their official website at pub.gov.sg.
- Licensed Water Service Providers: Approved plumbers and contractors can be found on the PUB directory to conduct installations and repairs.
Sewerage Services for Private Houses
Sewage and wastewater management in Singapore is also primarily handled by PUB. For private houses, proper connection to the public sewerage system is a strict requirement, as part of Singapore’s environmental management framework.
Sewerage Connection Requirements
- Mandatory Connection: According to the Sewerage and Drainage Act, all private houses within reach of a public sewer must connect to it and properly discharge wastewater.
- Permits for Sewer Works: Permission from PUB is necessary before carrying out any sewerage connection, repair, or alteration works.
- Licensed Contractors: Sewerage works must be performed by PUB-licensed drainage contractors to ensure compliance with technical standards and prevent contamination.
Steps to Arrange Sewerage Connection
- Application: Submit an application to PUB for a sewerage connection approval prior to any plumbing work.
- Site Assessment: PUB conducts a survey to determine the best sewer connection point and services available.
- Installation and Testing: Licensed contractors install the connection and carry out necessary tests to ensure system integrity.
- Final Inspection: PUB completes the final approval inspection before commissioning.
Who to Contact
- PUB Sewerage Services: Contact PUB’s sewerage department through their official portal at pub.gov.sg for inquiries or applications.
- Licensed Drainage Contractors: A list of approved drainage contractors is available on PUB’s website for authorized works.
Permits and Licensing: What You Need to Know
Relevant Permits
In summary, the key permits required for water supply and sewerage works in private houses in Singapore include:
- Water Supply Connection Permit: Issued by PUB prior to new water supply installations or modifications.
- Sewerage Connection Permit: Required before connecting or modifying sewer pipelines.
- Licensed Plumber and Contractor Credentials: All installation and maintenance work must be done by professionals licensed with PUB under the Water Services Industry or licensed drainage contractors for sewerage.
Why Licensed Professionals Are Required
As a rule, PUB mandates licensed professionals to ensure that all works conform to the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Sewerage and Drainage Act. This helps:
- Maintain public health and prevent contamination
- Ensure technical compliance with pipeline pressure and material standards
- Reduce leakage and water wastage
- Improve system longevity and reliability
Additional Considerations for Private Homeowners
- Water Efficiency Measures: PUB encourages the installation of water-efficient fittings and devices in private homes, which can reduce water consumption and bills.
- Regular Maintenance: Homeowners should conduct periodic checks on plumbing and drainage to prevent blockages or leaks.
- Emergency Contacts: For urgent water supply or sewer-related emergencies, contact PUB’s 24-hour hotline at 1800-225-5782.
- Drainage and Flood Prevention: Singapore Climate Resilience initiatives include ensuring proper drainage to reduce flood risks; homeowners are advised to keep external drains clear and report blockages promptly.
Useful Resources and Official Contacts
- PUB – Public Utilities Board: Central authority for water and sewerage services.
- Energy Market Authority (EMA): Although primarily tasked with energy regulation, EMA works closely with PUB on utilities infrastructure.
- Housing and Development Board (HDB): For those owning private houses in HDB estates, some guidelines may apply in conjunction with PUB requirements.
Conclusion
Proper coordination between homeowners, licensed professionals, and PUB ensures that water supply and sewerage services for private houses in Singapore operate smoothly and comply with regulatory standards. By understanding who to contact and what permits are needed before any works, homeowners can avoid delays, ensure safety, and contribute to sustainable water management in the city-state.
Disclaimer: This site is an informational blog and is not affiliated with the Government of Singapore.