Categories 2 and 3 – in examples 2.7A and 2.7B 3.12A, 3.12B, 3.15A, 3.15B, 3.16A, 3.16B, 3.16C, 3.17A and 3.17B: Can pumped solutions for floor level drainage be considered as an alternative to gravity drainage when designing provision for a future level access shower?

Yes. In new build dwellings, particularly flats, planning for floor level gravity drainage requires recesses and connections in the floor which may prove unreasonably difficult to achieve. Shower waste pump kits can be fitted as an alternative when gravity drainage is not an option and it would be reasonable in these circumstances for the future level access shower provision to be designed to accept this arrangement. Drainage solutions that work using gravity drainage will perform and maintain better.

For purpose-built and purposed designed Category 3 dwellings it may be reasonable to expect a gravity drainage system from the outset.