Connections

How to get access to our services

If you’re building a new home, you’ll need to apply to get connected to our pipes so you can use water, wastewater or stormwater services – there are a few steps you'll need to follow. If you’re moving to an existing property with water and wastewater services, you’re already connected to our network. 


New properties

If you need a new water or wastewater connection for any type of house, including granny flats and dual occupancy units, you'll need to:

To make it easier, you can engage a plumber or consultant to apply for you. These providers don't work for us and may charge you a service fee. 

If we approve your connection, we'll send you a letter explaining any conditions you must meet. Take a look at our prices to see all of the charges for your homeyour business and prices for other services.

Find out how to connect to our water, wastewater and stormwater systems in our connecting to our systems (291 KB) policy.

Once you have a connection, there are parts of each system that we look after and parts you are responsible for. The diagrams below explain more about your maintenance responsibilities. 


Typical water and wastewater connections

Drinking water system

This is the most common set-up for a drinking water connection on an individual property. It shows the typical maintenance responsibilities for this type of system.

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Drinking water system. Click picture for larger image.

Gravity wastewater system

This is a simplified view of a typical wastewater system within our network.

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Gravity wastewater system.

Recycled water system

This is the most common set-up for a recycled water system in a Sydney Water recycled water area. This diagram also shows the drinking water system.

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Recycled water system

Privately owned pressure wastewater system

This is a typical set-up for pressure sewer systems, where the customer owns the system. While usually connected to a Sydney Water pressurised wastewater main, the system on the property is owned and maintained by the property owner.

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Privately owned pressure wastewater system

Sydney Water owned pressure wastewater system

This is a typical set-up for pressure sewer systems that we own. It is generally connected to a pressurised wastewater main. Sydney Water owns and maintains part of the system on the property. 

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Sydney Water owned pressure wastewater system

Vacuum wastewater system

This is a typical set-up in a Sydney Water vacuum system area. This system is part of a pressurised wastewater main.

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Vacuum wastewater system


Land in new subdivisions

If you've bought land in a new subdivision, our water service might have a locked and tagged device because there's no meter in place yet. You'll need to apply for a water meter installation at Sydney Water Tap in to get your service unlocked.


Homes in unsewered areas

We're building new wastewater systems. Find out if we're improving our wastewater system in your area.