The much-anticipated fifth Bricks and Water Report, published by the independent, cross-party think tank Policy Connect, sets out a bold vision for improving the UK’s long-term water security. One of its most significant recommendations is the introduction of mandatory water reuse systems in new developments across the country.
As the UK’s leading manufacturer and maintenance provider of rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling systems, Stormsaver played a key role in the development of the report. Alongside helping to fund the research, Stormsaver joined the steering committee, providing technical expertise and evidence to support the case for greater adoption of water reuse.
The report was chaired by Baroness Ann McIntosh of Pickering, with Lee Pitcher MP and Julia Buckley MP serving as vice chairs. Together, they bring extensive knowledge and experience of the UK’s water sector.
A roadmap for the Clean Water Bill
The report presents 10 key recommendations designed to inform the forthcoming Clean Water Bill. These recommendations focus on strengthening water security, improving water efficiency, and accelerating the adoption of water reuse technologies.
Significantly, five of the ten recommendations are dedicated specifically to expanding water reuse, recognising it as a critical solution to the UK’s growing water challenges.
Below is a summary of the recommendations relating to water reuse. We also encourage you to read the full report on the Policy Connect website.
The five recommendations for water reuse
Recommendation 6: Make water reuse mandatory in new developments
The report recommends making water reuse systems a legal requirement for:
- New residential developments of more than 100 homes
- New commercial developments exceeding 500 m²
This would require amendments to Sections 67, 68 and 218 of the Water Industry Act 1991, as well as Part G of the Building Regulations 2010, introducing a clear legal requirement for water reuse systems in qualifying developments.
Recommendation 7: Introduce water reuse-ready homes
All new homes should be built with:
- A dedicated non-potable water pipe network
- Connection-ready drainage infrastructure for future water reuse systems
The report also recommends reviewing existing guidance to establish consistent national standards for non-potable pipework, including pipe colours, materials, and installation requirements.
Recommendation 8: Establish national standards and installer accreditation
To improve quality and consistency across the industry, the Government should:
- Introduce a Publicly Available Standard (PAS) for water reuse
- Implement a mandatory installer accreditation scheme
These measures would help ensure systems are designed, installed, and maintained to the highest standards.
Recommendation 9: Strengthen governance for water reuse
The report recommends that the Government adopt all ten recommendations made by the Drinking Water Inspectorate on water reuse governance, creating a clear and robust regulatory framework for the sector.
Recommendation 10: Improve public understanding
Public perception remains a barrier to wider adoption of water reuse. The report recommends incorporating water reuse into the national Let’s Save Water campaign to improve awareness, dispel misconceptions, and build public confidence in these sustainable technologies.
What does this mean for the industry?
While these recommendations have not yet become legislation, they provide a clear indication of the direction of travel for UK water policy.
For developers, consultants, architects, contractors, and design engineers, now is the ideal time to prepare for the likely changes. Understanding how water reuse systems can be integrated into developments today will help future-proof projects and ensure compliance with tomorrow’s regulations.
Stay ahead with Stormsaver’s FREE CPD training
Stormsaver offers FREE CPD-accredited training covering rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and the latest developments in UK water reuse policy.
Whether you’re designing new developments or advising clients, our training will help you understand emerging regulations, best practice, and how water reuse can deliver both environmental and commercial benefits.
Book your FREE CPD session today and stay ahead of the future of water reuse.
