WC Compliance


Do you know about the new alternative toilet (WC) regulations?

Anyone who is installing new plumbing needs to meet the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. However, as of 1st January 2020 there is a new alternative way to meet these regulations for newly installed toilets.

There's a new agreement, called the ‘Voluntary Interim Agreement’, which introduces alternative acceptable backflow protection standards for newly installed toilet suites. It’s important to note that these do not replace the requirement for an AUK1 airgap arrangement, they just introduce an alternative way to meet the regulations. The agreement is also only in place for a 6-month period.

Whether you’re installing new toilets in England or Wales, you need to ensure any new WC installations contain compliant backflow protection to reduce any risks to public health.

As Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, we are then responsible for enforcing these regulations when we inspect plumbing installations. We will accept toilets installed in line with the AUK1 airgap arrangements, or in line with the standards set out in the Voluntary Interim Agreement.

Full details of the Voluntary Interim Agreement can be found here

Got any questions? Send us an email using waterregulations@dwrcymru.com and we’ll answer any queries.