These regulations aim to protect drinking water supplies by setting legal requirements for the design, installation, operation, and maintenance of plumbing systems.

The decision to replace the Water Regulations Guide with online guidance was taken by water companies and driven by the desire to provide up to date information which can be accessed for free. The new online guidance is available on the Water Regs UK website now at www.waterregsuk.co.uk/guidance

"We’re excited to publish new online guidance, developed in close partnership with water companies," said Julie Spinks, Managing Director at Water Regs UK.

"This provides relevant information to everyone who needs to comply, from installers, building owners to plumbing students, engineers and of course consumers."

Key features of the new online guidance include:

• Up to date guidance backed by water companies, which can now be regularly reviewed and updated
• Free access for everyone to enable a wider reach and greater awareness of safe water systems
• Clear distinction between informative guidance about regulatory requirements and more general information which may or may not apply, depending on the situation
• The ability to give feedback which will help to identify gaps and drive continuous improvements.

In light of these developments, Water Regs UK is urging awarding bodies, training organisations, approved contractor schemes, and installers who work on plumbing systems, to familiarise themselves with the updated guidance. This includes aligning training materials and resources with the latest guidance.

"As the biggest change in guidance in over 20 years, it’s in everyone’s best interest to make use of this new resource and ensure they are up to date with the views of water companies, who enforce the regulations," added Julie. “There is always room for improvement and we would welcome feedback to make it even better."