Approved Document H - Drainage and Waste Disposal

Approved Document H
(download from Planning Portal)

MAIN CHANGES IN THE 2002 EDITION

This edition of the Approved Document H, Drainage and solid waste, replaces the 1992 edition. The main changes are:

a. Low flush WCs - guidance is provided for the design of sanitary pipework serving such appliances.

b. Condensate from boilers - guidance is provided on disposal of condensate.

c. Guidance has been given to clarify that the requirements of H1 apply to the whole drainage system including associated private sewers.

d. Use of pumping stations - guidance has been added to improve protection of low-lying properties.

e. Protection from rats in drains - the guidance has been modified.

f. Grease separators - guidance is given on their provision in commercial hot food premises.

g. Drain pipe sizes - drain/sewers serving more than 10 dwellings should have a minimum diameter of 150mm.

h. A general requirement of drainage is now included. This was originally the subject of Section 21 of the Building Act 1984.

i. Drainage fields from septic tanks - guidance is provided on design and siting.

j. Reed beds - have been added as a means of secondary treatment.

k. Maintenance information - a notice should be provided in an appropriate place setting out maintenance procedures for non-mains drainage systems.

I. Sustainable rainwater drainage - guidance on the use of infiltration drainage systems is provided.

m. Rainfall intensity - additional guidance is provided.

n. Drainage of certain paved areas for access or waste disposal -these areas should be free draining.

0. This is a new requirement dealing with situations previously covered by section 18 of the Building Act 1984 (Section 18 is repealed, subject to transitional provisions, with effect for 1 April 2002).

H5 Separate systems of drainage

p. This new requirement sets out the circumstances where separate systems of drainage are required.

(Was previously H4)

q. Storage space for dwellings - provides guidance on space for the collection of waste to be recycled.

r. Access to storage areas - guidance is provided on steps and slopes.