Understanding Surface Water Drainage Charges in East Lothian
As a homeowner or business owner in East Lothian, it's essential to understand the surface water drainage charges that apply to your property. In Scotland, including East Lothian, the Scottish Water organization is responsible for managing and maintaining the water and waste services, including surface water drainage.
What is Surface Water Drainage?
Surface water drainage refers to the collection and disposal of rainwater that runs off surfaces such as roofs, roads, and pavements. In East Lothian, Scottish Water is responsible for managing the surface water drainage system, which includes the construction and maintenance of drainage structures such as drains, sewers, and culverts.
Surface Water Drainage Charges in East Lothian
The surface water drainage charge in East Lothian is based on the rateable value of your property. The charge is applied to all properties that are connected to the public sewer system, including domestic and non-domestic properties.
How Much is the Surface Water Drainage Charge?
The surface water drainage charge in East Lothian varies depending on the band of your property. The charges are as follows:
- Band A: £15.45 per year
- Band B: £22.18 per year
- Band C: £28.91 per year
- Band D: £35.64 per year
- Band E: £42.37 per year
- Band F: £49.10 per year
- Band G: £55.83 per year
- Band H: £62.56 per year
New Developments and Surface Water Drainage Charges
For new developments in East Lothian, the surface water drainage charge is applied from the date of connection to the public sewer system. Developers are required to obtain approval from Scottish Water before connecting to the sewer system.
Viewing Your Surface Water Drainage Charge
You can view your surface water drainage charge on your water bill or by contacting Scottish Water directly. If you have any questions or concerns about your surface water drainage charge, you can contact Scottish Water's customer service team.
Layout and Non-Primary Charges
In addition to the standard surface water drainage charge, there may be additional charges for non-primary properties, such as holiday homes or second homes. The layout of your property may also affect the surface water drainage charge, with properties that have a larger roof area or more impermeable surfaces being charged more.
Technical Questions and Approval
If you have any technical questions about surface water drainage or need approval for a new development, you can contact Scottish Water's technical team. They will be able to provide guidance and advice on the surface water drainage system and any charges that may apply.
Running Costs and Region
The running costs of the surface water drainage system in East Lothian are met by Scottish Water, which is contracted by the Scottish Government to provide water and waste services across Scotland.
Plan and Construction
Scottish Water has a plan in place to maintain and improve the surface water drainage system in East Lothian, which includes the construction of new drainage structures and the maintenance of existing ones.
Waste Services and Charges
In addition to surface water drainage charges, properties in East Lothian may also be subject to waste services charges, which are applied by the local authority.
St. Scotland and April Changes
From April 2022, there were changes to the surface water drainage charges in Scotland, including East Lothian. The changes aimed to make the charges more fair and reflective of the costs of providing the service.
Contracted Services and Band
Scottish Water has contracted services in place to provide surface water drainage services across East Lothian. The band of your property will determine the surface water drainage charge that you pay.
If you have any questions or concerns about surface water drainage charges in East Lothian, contact Blocked Drains Edinburgh on 0131 235 2427 for expert advice and guidance.