Small builders and self-builders in England
Draft the sustainable drainage (SuDS) statement councils ask for: runoff destination, the first 5 mm of rain, maintenance. Free to read, pay to download.
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How it works
What you get
The first draft is free to read. Each document after it is drafted from the same confirmed facts.
Modeled on: Defra National standards for sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), June 2025
From public data
of rainfall, for most rain events, should not leave the site as runoff under the national SuDS standards
Source: Defra, National standards for sustainable drainage systems, Standard 2
Questions
National policy asks for a statement outlining how the national SuDS standards have been met for development that could affect drainage on or around the site. The detail should be proportionate to the scheme.
The standards set an order of preference: collect it for non-potable use, then infiltrate it into the ground, then discharge to a surface water body, then a surface water sewer, and a combined sewer last. Using a lower option needs justifying.
The local planning authority decides it as part of the application. For major development it should take account of advice from the Lead Local Flood Authority. The system also needs maintenance arrangements for the development's lifetime.
Related doors
Where is the tree?
What was built, and when was it finished?
Where is the property for the DA?
What job do you need RAMS for?
Where is the site?
Where is the property needing consent?
Answer it and the project exists. Three more questions, then the draft.