Build-Over

Agreements

Planning to build over or near a public sewer? Solid Build handles your Build Over Agreement from start to finish — architectural drawings, structural calculations, and full Severn Trent submission, all under one roof.

Book a Free Consultation
View All services

What is it?

What is a Build Over Agreement?

A Build Over Agreement is a legal requirement from your local water authority — in Birmingham, that's Severn Trent Water — when you plan to build an extension, garage, or any structure within 3 metres of a public sewer or drain.

Without it, your project cannot legally proceed and mortgage lenders will flag it on property searches. Failing to obtain one can result in enforcement action and complications when selling your property.

Solid Build's integrated team of architects and structural engineers prepares all the documentation needed for a successful, compliant application — saving you time, cost, and the risk of rejection.

Build Over Agreement Birmingham | Solid Build

Key fact: If your proposed build is within 3 metres of a public sewer, you legally require a Build Over Agreement before construction begins. Solid Build manages the entire process on your behalf.

Our process

How we handle your Build Over Agreement?

From initial sewer check to final Severn Trent approval, Solid Build manages every step so you can focus on your project.

  • We identify the exact position of public sewers on your plot using drainage records and site surveys.

  • We produce detailed plans showing the proximity of your proposed build to the sewer, as required by Severn Trent.

  • Our structural engineers produce calculations demonstrating your build will not compromise the sewer's integrity.

  • We submit the full application to Severn Trent Water and manage the approval process on your behalf.

Why Solid Build

Architecture & engineering — under one roof

Most clients need to hire an architect and a structural engineer separately. At Solid Build, both disciplines work together on your project from day one.

Architecture + engineering in one

No need to hire separate consultants. We handle drawings and calculations together — faster and more cost-effective.

Fast turnaround

We understand project timelines. Our team delivers documentation efficiently so your build stays on track.

Birmingham specialists

Deep knowledge of Severn Trent's local requirements, reducing the risk of delays or rejections.

Full compliance guaranteed

Every submission meets building regulations and water authority standards, first time.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

You need a Build Over Agreement if your planned extension or structure will be built within 3 metres of a public sewer. It is a legal requirement issued by your water authority — Severn Trent in Birmingham — before work can begin.
Typically 4–6 weeks from submission, depending on the complexity of the project and Severn Trent's workload. Solid Build prepares complete, accurate submissions to minimise delays.
Yes. At Solid Build, our architects work alongside structural engineers to produce all drawings and calculations needed. We manage the entire application, so you don't need to coordinate multiple consultants.
Building without one is a legal risk. It can result in enforcement action from Severn Trent, problems when selling your property, and complications with mortgage lenders. It is always required before construction begins.
Yes. While we are based in Birmingham at 204a Ladypool Road, Solid Build works with clients across the West Midlands, Solihull, Wolverhampton, Coventry, and UK-wide.