Hydraulic test

Generic term for any test using water under controlled pressure or flow to verify drains.

A hydraulic test is a general term covering any test that uses water under controlled pressure, head or flow to verify the performance of a drainage system. It encompasses pressure tests, flow tests and watertightness checks specified under BS EN 1610 and BS EN 752, with the specific method chosen to suit the application. Hydraulic testing is used for sign-off of new gravity drains, repairs, adoption schemes with Thames Water and SuDS components across Greater London. Engineers select calibrated equipment, isolate the section under test and record observations carefully so that results can be compared against the relevant acceptance criteria. The written record supports compliance with Building Regulations Part H and Sewers for Adoption guidance, providing assurance to property owners, designers and approving bodies before the system is brought into service.