Utilities connections for your home

When you're building a new house or an extension you’ll need gas, water, electricity and TV cables connected– find out more about utilities connections here.

Hire a professional for utilities connections

Utilities connections have to be well planned when building a new house or an extension so they fit in with your construction plans. When converting old houses such as barns or stables into homes utilities connections are a crucial part of the design and organisation of the building. For best results it is important to plan ahead and to find a suitable contractor for the job and last but not least, to get the job done at a reasonable price.

How to plan utilities connections

There are four main types of utilities connections that apply to most houses: gas, water, electricity and telecommunication. While gas may not be available or necessary for every building and telecommunication may include or not include phone lines, separate internet lines and cable TV, most homes will need water and electricity at the very least. So find out what you need and where in the house you need them to be located. Then contact at least three utilities connection companies for a quote.

Who will help me with utilities connections?

In residential areas the service suppliers will usually be able to connect your house to the respective utilities. From there on it is up to you: gas and water pipes and electrical and telecommunication wires will end in the basement or wherever your supplier has put them. For further installation of utilities connections in your house you will need to contact a plumber or an electrician, who will wire the house or lay pipes for your bathroom and kitchen. The same applies to utilities connections for extensions or loft conversions: you will need to find the proper contractor who can help you with connecting the new room to the water or electricity supply. Do not try to do this work yourself, particularly if it involves gas or electric, as is might be dangerous or even illegal unless you are a certified professional. Laying water pipes yourself is also not advisable, as if something goes wrong, your building project could be ruined with water damage.

How much will utilities connections cost?

The cost of connecting your utilities depends on the circumstances. Some suppliers will charge you for connecting your house, which will be more expensive if your house is outside of a dense residential area, for example in rural areas where utilities connections include the laying of pipes and wires over a long distance to and from your house. Quotes from the suppliers will include costs for utilities connections to your house. Costs for connections inside your house will depend on the size of your property and on the actual work that is necessary. Wiring a three bedroom house will cost around £1000 - £2000 and hiring a plumber for bathroom installation will be around £2000-£3000 including materials, kitchen installation normally costs around £500. You should request several quotes from different contractors in order to find the best price for your utilities connections.