Private Water Supplies – Your Complete Guide
This guide is designed for owners of holiday let properties in Scotland that rely on a Private Water Supply (PWS), defined as any water source not provided by a statutory water utility. Common sources include boreholes, wells, springs, lakes, streams, and rivers, with supply types ranging from single households using less than one cubic metre of water daily to larger commercial operations providing up to 1,000 cubic metres or more.
Maintenance and quality of PWS rest entirely with the owner or user, making it crucial for holiday let owners to understand the legal obligations, testing requirements, and best practices for delivering safe, high-quality water to guests. This guide covers everything from testing logistics and regulatory compliance to managing guest experience and addressing water quality issues promptly.
Guidance Content
- Understanding Private Water Supply (PWS) Requirements
- Testing Frequency and Compliance
- Costs and Financial Support
- Testing Logistics and Process
- Results, Remediation, and Compliance Management
- Common Contaminants and Treatment Options
- Managing Guest Experience and Communication
- Risk Management and Emergency Preparedness
Author of Guidance: IF Water
Contact: Duncan Peters, duncan.peters@ifwater.io
Website: Improving Life Through Water
Date of Guidance: January 2025
Version Number: V1
Disclaimer – Guidance Sheets are written by experienced Members of the ASSC and other experts. The information in the ‘Guidance Sheet’ is provided by the ASSC for use by Members in support of their own independent business decisions. It does not constitute advice or instruction for which the ASSC can be held liable in any way whatsoever. All Members and other readers remain responsible for the consequences of any decisions taken whether in the light of information gained from this Guidance Sheet or not.
