What is the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS)?
The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) is the UK body responsible for approving plumbing products and fittings for use with public water supplies. Every plumber working on mains water connections should understand what WRAS approval means, why it matters, and how it affects their work and product choices.
What is WRAS?
The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) was established to support compliance with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. Its primary functions are:
- Product approval: Assessing and approving plumbing products, fittings, and materials for use with public water supplies
- Guidance: Publishing technical guidance on Water Regulations compliance
- Training: Providing training and information for water fittings installers and inspectors
WRAS approval means a product has been independently tested and assessed as compliant with Water Regulations and safe for use in contact with drinking water.
Why WRAS Approval Matters for Plumbers
Plumbers installing fittings connected to the public mains water supply are responsible for using compliant products. The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations require that water fittings:
- Are WRAS approved (or otherwise acceptable) for their intended use
- Are correctly installed and maintained
Using non-approved products can result in: – Water supply disconnection by the water undertaker – Liability for contamination or supply problems – Insurance complications
The practical rule: when specifying taps, valves, fittings, pipes, and water treatment equipment, check the WRAS approved products directory to confirm compliance.
WaterSafe vs WRAS: What’s the Difference?
These are two different but related organisations that plumbers frequently confuse:
| WRAS | WaterSafe | |
|---|---|---|
| What it approves | Products and materials | Plumbing businesses (contractors) |
| Who runs it | Water industry body | Water industry approved contractor scheme |
| Relevant for | Product selection | Contractor registration |
| Website | wras.co.uk | watersafe.org.uk |
WRAS approves the products you install. WaterSafe registers the businesses doing the installation.
Both matter for a professional plumbing business.
Notifiable Work Under Water Regulations
Certain plumbing installations must be notified to the local water undertaker at least 10 days before work begins (or use a WaterSafe registered plumber who can self-certify). Notifiable work includes:
- Connection or disconnection from the mains water supply
- Installation of a new water main
- Installation of water treatment units (including water softeners)
- Irrigation systems with underground pipework
- Certain backflow prevention installations
- Bidets with flexible inlets or submerged inlets
See the WRAS guidance on notifiable work for the complete list.
Conclusion
The trades industry rewards those who combine excellent work with professional business practices. The guidance above covers the practical fundamentals – applying it consistently is what separates the tradespeople who stay busy and profitable from those who struggle with feast-and-famine cycles. For further guidance, visit WRAS: Water Regulations Advisory Scheme.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does WRAS approved mean on a plumbing product?
WRAS approved means the product has been independently assessed and found to comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and is safe for use in contact with drinking water. Check the WRAS approved products directory to verify a product’s approval status.Do I need to notify the water authority for every plumbing job?
No – most routine plumbing repairs and maintenance don’t require notification. Notification is only required for notifiable work as defined in the Water Regulations. WaterSafe registered plumbers can self-certify notifiable work without the 10-day notice period.What happens if I use non-WRAS approved fittings?
Using non-compliant water fittings is a breach of the Water Regulations. The water undertaker can require replacement at the installer’s cost. Liability for any resulting contamination or supply issues may rest with the installer.Related reading:
