If you’re planning to install new water mains or service pipes on a brownfield or potentially contaminated site, you’ll need a UKWIR-compliant investigation to meet your water company’s adoption requirements.
At ProHort, we specialise in UKWIR Testing – providing full soil sampling, laboratory analysis, and reporting in line with the UKWIR Guidance for the Selection of Water Supply Pipes to be Used in Brownfield Sites (Ref 10/WM/03/21).
UKWIR (UK Water Industry Research) sets out the official guidance that water companies use to determine whether ground conditions could affect the integrity or safety of water pipes.
A UKWIR test identifies contaminants in the soil that may degrade or permeate water pipes. These results are then used to select the correct pipe material and ensure compliance before connection approval.
Site Review & Desk Study
Assessing historical land use and contamination risks to determine sampling locations.
Soil Sampling & Accredited Laboratory Testing
Targeted soil sampling and accredited laboratory testing in line with UKWIR requirements.
Typical analyses include:
Petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH, BTEX, MTBE)
Volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds (VOCs/SVOCs)
Phenols and chlorinated compounds
Heavy metals
Soil pH, electrical conductivity, and redox potential
UKWIR-Compliant Reporting
Detailed reports suitable for submission to the adopting water company or self-lay provider, including lab certificates and pipe material recommendations.
Pipe Material Selection Advice
Independent recommendations for suitable pipe types, barrier systems, or protective coatings based on contamination levels.
✅ Fast turnaround and competitive pricing
✅ UKAS-accredited laboratory analysis
✅ Fully compliant with UKWIR and Water UK requirements
✅ Experience across residential, commercial, and infrastructure projects
✅ Clear, easy-to-understand reporting for submission and approval
Developers working on brownfield or redevelopment sites
Utility contractors installing new mains and services
Self-Lay Providers (SLPs) preparing water adoption submissions
Environmental consultants requiring UKWIR data for design approval
✔ Avoid costly delays during adoption or approval
✔ Select the correct pipe materials first time
✔ Protect public health and water quality
✔ Demonstrate full regulatory compliance
Whether you’re at design stage or ready for installation, ProHort can deliver a complete UKWIR Testing package — from site sampling through to final approval report.
Contact us today to get a quote or discuss your project on 0800 494 479 or email [email protected].
