Enquiries
A significant amount of inspectors’ time is spent providing guidance on a case-by-case basis by responding to enquiries. These enquiries comprise both phone calls and email contacts. The majority of enquiries have been consistently from local authorities since the inception of the Regulations in 2010. The nature of these enquiries is variable, with some regulations attracting more enquiries on implementation than others.
The Inspectorate is aware, via enquiries from consumers, that some local authorities are declining sampling or risk assessment requests from property owners or occupiers who are served by a private water supply. These functions are a statutory requirement, therefore it is of great concern that local authorities are not fulfilling these duties which puts public health at risk.
Figure 2 – Private water supply enquiries
The Inspectorate has no powers to investigate these reports, or complaints about local authorities that have been unhelpful or have allegedly not met their regulatory obligations. Enquirers are reminded that each local authority has a complaints process which should be exhausted before escalating to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman. The Inspectorate is aware that some consumers have initiated the Judicial review process, therefore this is also an available option where appropriate. It is also possible to write to your local MP and again the Inspectorate is aware of cases that have benefited from this approach.
Local authorities are encouraged to consult the Inspectorate’s website prior to making an enquiry on private water supplies. In 2022, a search facility specifically for private water supplies was created to assist those visiting the Inspectorate’s website to locate the information and relevant guidance they seek – The search page can be found using the following link Search – technical guidance notes.