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Electrical earthing

The use of metal water service pipes as a means of electrical earthing is no longer regarded as safe practice since they cannot guarantee to give a satisfactory earth. The earthing of electrical installations to water pipes has been prohibited since 1966 by the Institute of Electrical Engineers Wiring Regulations. Properties built before this date could still be earthed in this way.


Your water service pipe should not be used for earthing your household electrical installation. We advise you to contact your local electricity supplier or an approved electrical contractor to discuss this matter and possibly have your earthing arrangements checked.

The earthing of a property is the sole responsibility of the owner of the property. We cannot accept any legal liability for damage or injury resulting from the use of a water service pipe as a means of electrical earthing.

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