WRAS-approved Materials
WRAS-approved Materials | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Bristol
HEP keeps Bristol’s water flowing safely and efficiently with WRAS-approved materials that meet the strictest industry standards. Whether you own a bustling business on the Harbourside or a cosy Victorian terrace in Redland, our expert engineers replace tired, corroded lines with modern, long-lasting alternatives that protect water quality and boost pressure. From the first site survey to the final pressure test, we handle every detail, minimise disruption, and leave your property spotless.
Choose HEP for pipe upgrades carried out by local specialists who understand the city’s diverse building stock and tricky underground network. With transparent pricing, same-day emergency call-outs, and a workmanship guarantee, we make investing in your plumbing simple—and future leaks a distant memory.
FAQs
What does “WRAS-approved materials” mean and why is it important for my pipe upgrade in Bristol?
WRAS (Water Regulations Approval Scheme) approval confirms that a plumbing product or material complies with the UK Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Byelaws. Using WRAS-approved pipes, fittings and sealants ensures that no component will contaminate drinking water, impair water quality or create leakage risks. Bristol Water’s inspectors look for WRAS markings during routine checks, so choosing approved materials helps you pass inspections first time, protects your household’s health, and avoids potential fines or enforced rework.
Which types of pipe upgrades do you offer and are they all WRAS-compliant?
We replace and install a full range of domestic and light-commercial pipework, including: • Lead-to-copper or lead-to-MDPE (blue poly) mains replacements • Old galvanised steel to modern copper or PEX barrier pipe • Internal hot-and-cold pipe re-runs for bathrooms, kitchens and utility rooms • Secondary hot-water returns and recirculation loops • Upgrades for unvented cylinders and boosted cold-water sets. Every pipe, fitting, isolation valve, backflow prevention device and flexible connector we supply carries a current WRAS approval certificate, so the entire installation meets local water-authority requirements.
How long does a typical pipe upgrade project take in a Bristol home?
Timescales vary with property size and scope, but as a guideline: • External lead-to-MDPE service pipe replacement (from boundary stop tap to internal entry) – 1 day • Full internal hot-and-cold re-pipe for a 3-bed semi-detached – 2–3 days • Whole-house upgrade including new mains, internal re-pipe and first-fix bathroom alterations – 4–5 days. We provide a detailed programme before starting and liaise with Bristol Water if a new connection or meter relocation is required, minimising disruption and ensuring water is restored the same day.
Will upgrading to WRAS-approved pipes improve my water pressure or taste?
Replacing corroded lead or steel pipework eliminates internal build-up that throttles flow, so most customers notice a measurable pressure and flow increase at taps and showers. Changing to non-leaching WRAS-approved materials also removes the metallic taste sometimes associated with lead or galvanised pipes. While the upgrade cannot raise pressure above what Bristol Water supplies, it maximises what reaches your outlets and supports modern appliances such as combination boilers and high-performance mixer showers.
Do I need permission from Bristol Water or Building Control before starting a pipe upgrade?
Internal like-for-like replacements generally do not need prior consent, but any change to the incoming service pipe, the position of the internal stop tap, or the installation of an unvented hot-water cylinder does. We handle applications to Bristol Water for new connections or boundary valves, submit drawings to Bristol Building Control where Part G (water supply) sign-off is required, and arrange post-work inspections. Our status as WIAPS-registered plumbers allows us to self-certify most domestic work, speeding up approval.
How much does a WRAS-approved pipe upgrade cost and what factors influence the price?
Costs depend on access, pipe length, diameter, number of fixtures and the need for excavation. Typical guide prices (including labour, WRAS-approved materials and waste removal): • External lead service replacement (up to 10 m) – £950-£1,300 • Whole-house internal copper re-pipe (3-bed semi) – £2,200-£3,000 • Larger detached property or light-commercial unit – from £3,500. Extras such as kitchen/bathroom refits, suspended-floor reinstatement or additional stop taps will add to the total. We provide a fixed quotation after a free site survey and all work carries a 10-year workmanship guarantee and manufacturer warranties on WRAS-approved products.