What does WRAS Approved mean?

What is WRAS Approved mean?

When purchasing a bathroom it’s easy to get lost in technical Jargon. It’s not always easy to know what’s important, what to look for or where to start. Our handy tip for starting any bathroom project is to look for a WARS approved product. With a WRAS approved product, you know the item is designed and tested to comply with The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999. These regulations ensure the protection of public heal, protect the water supplies and the efficient use of water. For more information please see the WRAS website.

Why is it important to comply with The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999?

The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 are enforceable if a person is found to be guilty of an offence by breaking these regulations they can be subjected to a fine. More information about The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 can be found on the Government’s legislation.go.uk site.

What products normally come with WRAS approval?

Generally, you will see products such as cisterns, taps and shower valves come with a WRAS approval. Products used in conjunction with the water mains are normally the products you find with WRAS approval.

Do all UK Bathrooms items come with a WRAS approval?

It’s not a mandatory requirement to have WRAS approval, but it’s mandatory to comply with the regulations. Manufacturers seek approval to make it easier for you to know their products are safe and meet the stringent requirements that WARS put into place to comply with all legislation when correctly installed and used.

What manufacturers do UK Bathrooms sell that carry WRAS approval (Please note: not all products from a manufacturer will carry WRAS approval, please consult the manufacturer’s website for more information)?

• Bauhaus & Crosswater
• Britton
• Burlington
• Geberit
• Grohe
• Hansgrohe
• Ideal Standard
• Impey
• Pegler
• Roca
• Roper Rhodes
• Saneux
• Vado
• Vitra

If I find the product cheaper on a foreign site does it still have the WRAS approval?

Generally no it will not, even if it is from the same manufacturer. Large manufacturers that operate internationally will have a UK arm of the business. The UK arms of the business apply for WRAS approval, so if you purchase the item outside the UK from an international site (who may even operate in the UK) your product does not carry the WRAS approval. Whilst the item might be cheaper, you cannot be certain you are getting a product with is compliant with the regulations, so it is something to bear in mind.