Guides
Utility connection guides
Plain-English guides to getting new homes and buildings connected. Who does what, how long it takes, what to send and what the rules really say, with sources you can check.
Guides for self-builders, developers and commercial sites
Each guide answers one question properly. Where we quote a figure, we name the operator or regulator it comes from, because timings and prices vary across the country.
DNO, IDNO and ICP explained
Who owns the network, who can build your connection, and which parts of the work you can get competing prices for.
Read the guide TimingsHow long does a new connection take?
Published lead times for electricity, gas and water, named by operator, and when to apply so supplies are ready on time.
Read the guide GasFuture Homes Standard: do new homes still need gas?
The 2027 start date, how the transition works building by building, higher-risk buildings, and what it means for your electricity supply.
Read the guide SewerSection 106 sewer connections explained
Your right to connect to a public sewer, what the water company asks for, and how it differs from Section 104 and build-over.
Read the guide ApplicationsUtility application checklist
The drawings, load figures and site details each operator asks for, utility by utility, so applications go in right first time.
Read the guide CostsUtility connection costs
What new connections cost, who pays for network reinforcement, water infrastructure charges and how to keep quotes down.
Read the guide ProcessHow utility applications work
From first enquiry to live supplies: how we scope, apply, compare offers and coordinate your connections, and what we need from you.
Read the guideLooking for a short answer?
Our FAQ page covers the questions we're asked most, from who your network operator is to whether new homes still need gas.
Read the FAQsHelp with each utility
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Tell us about the site and the utilities you need. We'll come back with the right application route and a clear, fixed fee for managing it.