New Connections

Connecting a building to essential services like electricity, gas, water, and telecoms involves a series of steps where each utility provider ensures that the building is safely and securely linked to their networks.

The connection processes for these utilities are usually coordinated during the construction phase and may vary depending on local regulations and the type of building (residential, commercial, industrial). Below is a detailed overview of how each utility is connected to a building.

Electricity Connection

Steps to Connect a Building to the Electricity Network:

Application to the Distribution Network Operator (DNO): The process typically begins with an application to the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) or electricity provider, specifying the building’s power requirements.
Supply Point Identification: The DNO will identify the nearest suitable connection point on the existing electrical network, usually from the nearest transformer or secondary substation.
Cabling
- - Underground or overhead cables are used to link the building to the electricity network.
  - In urban areas, the connection is usually made via underground cables, whereas in rural areas, it might involve overhead power lines.
  - The cables are laid in a trench from the property to the closest electrical infrastructure, typically along public roads or land.
Service Head & Meter Installation:
- Inside the building, the service head (the point where the building’s internal wiring meets the external supply) and a meter are installed to measure electricity consumption.
- A consumer unit or fuse box is then connected to distribute electricity throughout the building.

Gas Connection

Steps to Connect a Building to the Gas Network:

Application to the Gas Network Operator: The building owner or developer contacts the Gas Distribution Network (GDN) to initiate the connection. Details like location, gas load requirements (e.g., for heating, hot water, and cooking), and usage type are provided.
Network Connection Assessment: The GDN assesses the nearest point on the gas network (typically a low-pressure gas main) to determine how to best connect the building.
Trenching and Piping:
- Like electricity, the gas connection typically involves laying a gas service pipe from the building to the main gas pipeline, usually located under the street.
- The pipe is routed through a trench and connected to the gas mains. In urban areas, this is often done underground; in some rural areas, gas may be delivered via tanks or cylinders if the mains network is unavailable.
Gas Meter Installation:
- A gas meter is installed near the entry point of the gas line into the building to measure gas usage.
- The building’s internal gas distribution system (pipes leading to boilers, heaters, or stoves) is connected to the meter.
Safety Checks and Activation:
- A certified engineer performs safety checks, such as pressure testing and leak detection.
- Once the system passes, the gas supply is activated.

Water Connection

Steps to Connect a Building to the Water Supply Network:

Application to the Water Company: The local water authority or private water company responsible for the area must be contacted to arrange the connection. Details such as property size and expected water usage are provided.
Survey and Connection Point Identification:
- The water company identifies the nearest water main (often located under public roads) and determines the appropriate connection point.
Service Pipe Installation:
- A service pipe is installed from the building to the water main. This pipe is usually laid in a trench and must meet certain depth and insulation standards to protect against freezing or damage.
Water Meter Installation:
- A water meter may be installed to measure the building’s water usage. The meter is often located outside the property or at the boundary, but it may also be installed inside in some cases.
Connection to Internal Plumbing:
- The building’s internal plumbing system is connected to the meter, supplying water to taps, toilets, and other fixtures.
Testing and Commissioning:
- The water authority performs tests to ensure the connection is secure and that water flows correctly. After approval, water is then supplied to the building.

Telecoms (Broadband, Phone, Internet) Connection

Steps to Connect a Building to the Telecoms Network:

Application to the Telecom Provider: The building owner selects a telecom provider (e.g., for broadband, phone, or internet services). The provider checks if the building is within their network coverage area.
Survey and Planning:
- The telecom provider assesses the nearest connection point to the building, which could be a telephone exchange, cabinet, or fibre node.
- Depending on the service type, the building may be connected via fibre-optic cables (for high-speed internet), copper wires, or a combination of both (fibre-to-the-cabinet, FTTC).
Cable Installation:
- For fibre-optic connections, the provider runs fibre cables either from the nearest street cabinet or directly to the building (FTTH – fibre-to-the-home).
- For copper-based services, copper wires are laid from the local exchange or distribution point to the property.
- The cables may run underground in ducting systems or along utility poles (in rural or older areas).
Telecom Socket and Router Setup:
- Inside the building, the telecom provider installs the necessary equipment, such as telecom sockets, a fibre-optic terminal (for fibre connections), or a modem/router.
Activation and Testing:
- After the physical connection is established, the telecom company activates the service, performs tests, and provides the necessary equipment to the customer, like modems or routers for internet access.

Coordinating the Connections

Planning and Coordination: During the construction or refurbishment of a building, the utility connections for electricity, gas, water, and telecoms are typically coordinated by the developer, contractor, or project manager to ensure that all services are installed efficiently. For large projects, this often involves consultation with multiple utility providers to align schedules and avoid disruptions.
Infrastructure Regulations: All these connections must comply with local building regulations, safety standards, and environmental considerations. For example, the trench depth for pipes and cables must meet minimum standards to prevent accidental damage during future construction.

In summary, connecting a building to electricity, gas, water, and telecoms involves a series of steps including application, planning, trenching or laying of cables/pipes, installation of meters and equipment, and finally testing and commissioning by utility providers. These processes are essential to ensure that the building has access to all necessary utilities in a safe and compliant manner.

We partner with vetted ICP’s/UIP’s and iDNO’s/iGT’s to review the DNO design, tender the network quote and offer a competitive service. We manage the end-to-end process from identifying available capacity in the network, reviewing designs, overseeing legal requirements, coordinating personnel to site through to managing the final connection.

To find out more about new connections, please get in touch with us today on +44(0)330 221 6565, WhatsApp us on +44 (0)793 915 5199 or email info@connectus-utilities.co.uk.

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