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Broken Mains Cable

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Whilst repairing an outside old water pipe, I inadvertently went through the Boards mains supply into my house, despite keeping an eye out for services.

They were really quick getting out but the cable that ran down the middle of my driveway was only 200mm deep. It scare the hell out of us when we went through it, hell of a bang and we were not expecting it to be that shallow. There was no gravel/sand trench or and tape indication the cable was there.

Weston Power have said I was liable and they would be sending me an invoice for the work. Heaven knows how much that will be.
Surely they should but mains cables deeper than 200mm?. There could have been a significant risk to life.

Does anyone know if I am liable there?
Thanks

Comments

  • Consumerist
    Consumerist Posts: 6,311 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    edited 25 October 2014 at 2:25PM
    You could have a look on the <HSE website> for more info.

    It seems likely that the onus is on you to take precautions since cable records (if you used them) are regarded only as a guide.

    Edit
    You might also find this <guide> from Western Power Distribution of some help.
    >:)Warning: In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.
  • Looks like i might cop the lot as they say. I am still amazed there isnt a duty of care to mark cables or put them at a sensible depth. 200mm is nearly a childs digging play depth.....
  • Consumerist
    Consumerist Posts: 6,311 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    Just a thought - do you have buildings insurance?
    >:)Warning: In the kingdom of the blind, the one-eyed man is king.
  • Swipe
    Swipe Posts: 5,613 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Photogenic Name Dropper
    Just a thought - do you have buildings insurance?

    Maybe worth a try but no doubt they'll try to worm their way out of it unless you have extra cover for underground services.
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