Portable standpipe hire
To access a temporary water supply from our water distribution network, you will need to hire a portable standpipe.
This must be hired from us using our appointed agents, Aquam.
Need to know
It is a criminal offence under section 174(3) of the Water Industry Act 1991 to use a standpipe other than one hired from us - you could be liable to a fine of up to £1,000 if convicted.
The standpipe you hire will be up to 25mm (1 inch) in diameter and will include a double check valve to protect the public water supply from contamination. It will have a serial number stamped on it and generally will not be metered.
Subject to complying with our conditions of use, a standpipe can be connected to one of the washout hydrants on our network. These are fitted with blue caps and can be unlocked with a removal key issued when you hire the standpipe.
It is against the law to attach a standpipe to a fire hydrant - these are for sole use of Wessex Water and fire brigade staff and are usually located beneath yellow covers marked FH. Fire hydrants belonging to the Fire Brigade are secured with red locking caps and warning stickers. Find out what to do if you spot hydrant misuse.
Connection of standpipes is subject to complete compliance with our instructions for use of standpipes. Please note that once water has been taken from a standpipe and transferred into containers or through a temporary plumbing system, it cannot be guaranteed for human consumption.