By Gemma Brooks, Customer Relationship Manager at SafeMove
As a former Licensed Conveyancer, I understand the pressure to ensure every aspect of due diligence is watertight. We all know that a trusted search such as the CON29DW Residential drainage and water search is an essential part of the conveyancing process. It provides critical data regarding water and sewerage assets, protecting prospective owners and their advisers from unnecessary risk while complementing your own due diligence.
However, not all searches are created equal. At SafeMove, our ongoing “Look for the Logo” campaign is designed to remind legal professionals across Yorkshire and the Humber why the official CON29DW drainage and water search should be the clear choice for their clients.
A History of Standards
To understand the value of the current search, it is worth looking at its evolution. Before 2002, drainage and water enquiries were limited to just two questions raised via a Local Authority Search. Recognising the need for better data, the CON29DW was developed in 2002 through a collaboration between the Law Society, government departments, and the Water Industry.
Even then, the search was a vast improvement, offering details on sewer and water main locations, connection status, and billing. It navigated the era of Home Information Packs (HIPs)—becoming a mandatory component in 2007: and when HIPs were removed in 2010, the CON29DW remained as a vital, standalone search due to its recognised value.
Comprehensive Coverage
Today, the CON29DW is more robust than ever. It answers 23 specific questions and includes two maps – one for the public water network and one for the public sewer network.
The search is designed to highlight potential issues with the public sewer and public water network that could lead to unexpected maintenance expenses or negatively impact property value and homeowner enjoyment.
Key insights include:
- Connection Status: Confirmation of whether the property is connected to the mains water supply and if foul and surface water drain to a public sewer.
- Billing & Metering: Clarification on how the property is charged, who is responsible for billing, and the location of any water meters.
- Critical Infrastructure: Identification of any public pumping stations or Sewerage Treatment Works within the boundary or nearby.
- Risk Factors: Information on whether the property experiences low water pressure or has a history of internal flooding due to overloaded public sewers.
- Legal Agreements: Details on any Adoption Agreements (Section 51a and Section 104s) currently in place or build-over consultations.
Why it Pays to “Look for the Logo”
With various alternative drainage and water searches available in the market, distinguishing the official product is vital if your clients are to understand the full picture. The official CON29DW is easily identified by its unique logo, which features on every report.
This logo is your assurance of quality. It signifies that the report is available only from DWSN (Drainage and Water Searches Network) members, who are comprised of the nine English Water and Sewerage Companies (WaSC’s) who compile a CON29DW for each of their respective regions.
The benefits of choosing the official search include:
- Law Society Approval: The report comprises standardised questions developed directly with the Law Society, and products are updated regularly to reflect legislative changes.
- Specialist Interpretation: Knowledgeable and experienced teams interpret and verify comprehensive and current drainage and water data direct from multiple sources at the WaSC.
- Risk Mitigation: The search complements your due diligence with specified indemnity levels and terms that support both you and your client.
- Audited Quality: DWSN independently audits its members to ensure compliance with strict quality and excellent service standards.
When you choose a drainage and water search bearing the CON29DW logo, you are ensuring that you are receiving an official search from the WaSC’s. It is the most effective way to protect your clients and ensure they have the full picture before they exchange.
For further information and to request a free CPD for your team on the CON29DW, please reach out to Gemma Brooks at gemma.brooks1@yorkshirewater.co.uk or 07814 062 725
About SafeMove
SafeMove, a Bradford-based trading arm of Yorkshire Water, has supported property lawyers since 2001. In association with the Law Society, SafeMove uses Yorkshire Water’s daily operational data to compile the official CON29DW Residential and Commercial drainage and water reports for the Yorkshire region. Both searches are available directly from SafeMove’s website, or via all major search provider resellers and their associated case-management systems.
