Section 106 agreement (s.106)

A section 106 agreement, in the drainage context, is an application made to the sewerage undertaker under the Water Industry Act 1991 to make a new connection from a private drain into a public sewer. In Greater London the application is made to Thames Water and covers design of the connection, location, depth and any temporary impact on the public sewer during the work. The process is separate from the planning section 106 used for planning gain contributions. Practical implications for homeowners include the need to allow several weeks for approval and to engage a competent contractor familiar with the water company's requirements. Connections are commonly required for new bathrooms, kitchens, extensions and outbuilding wastes. The application is made in addition to any Building Regulations approval under Approved Document H1.