We have prosecuted two companies for the unauthorised use of standpipes and taking water illegally from a hydrant. 

Leicester-based Priority Plant Ltd was found guilty of the offence which occurred in Larkspur, Northstowe on 12 February 2025. The company was ordered to pay a total of £5,960 in fines and legal costs by Cambridge Magistrates Court on 6 January 2026.

Ilkeston-based Aggrecom Ltd has also been found guilty of this offence on Upper Outwoods Road, Burton upon Trent, on 28 February 2025, and was ordered to pay a total of £4,860 in fines and legal costs by Derby Magistrates Court on 12 January 2026.

Mark Jeffries, Lead Water Supplies Officer for South Staffs Water said: "Unauthorised connections to the water network are illegal and pose a real risk to the safety and reliability of our customers’ water supply, as it can damage the hydrant water is taken from as well as our mains pipework. 

"When water is taken without permission, it can affect both water quality and pressure for our customers, which is completely unacceptable.

"Our responsibility is to provide a safe, dependable supply of water to homes and businesses, and we take any activity that jeopardises this very seriously. 

"We welcome this prosecution and hope it discourages other companies from acting irresponsibly."

If you require a temporary water supply, authorised standpipes are available to hire on our website. 

We also offer guidance and training to ensure the equipment is used correctly and safely, helping to protect the water supply for everyone.