Reinstatement
After the repair of a pipe leak, burst or planned works, we will restore the area to a similar condition to what it was before.
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Reinstating after repairs
Following the completion of works, our priority is ensuring the area is safe. This includes notifying affected customers, placing appropriate signage and securing the site. There are two types of reinstatements undertaken based on the ground that has been disturbed during the works.
- Paved surfaces such as roads, driveways, footpaths, concrete hard stand areas, etc. will typically be temporarily reinstated before we come back later to fix it permanently.
- Grassed and vegetated surfaces such as nature strips, gardens, etc. will vary on the requirements of the surface, aiming to reinstate close to how it was before the works.
After a temporary reinstatement, it’s normal for topsoil or bitumen to settle and sink over time, especially following rainfall. If you see a road, footpath or nature strip that is subsiding and causing a safety hazard, please call us on 132 812.
Reinstating a nature strip
After a leak or burst on your nature strip is repaired, we reseed the area with a lawn grass mix to help it recover. To keep the area safe and protect the new grass, we place stakes with tape around the site.
The trees on nature strips are owned by council. The council is informed prior to a tree being removed and it will decide on the replacement.
Reinstating roads, driveways and footpaths
Once roads, driveways, and footpaths are made safe, permanent restoration begins. This process must align with any scheduled council works or traffic management plans, which can occasionally cause delays. Where reinstatements impact customers i.e. driveways, etc. our crews will work with the affected property owner to minimise disruption where possible.
We aim to fully restore affected areas within 30 days, with planning and reinstatement taking place over the following weeks.
Please note that newly laid concrete may appear brighter than surrounding pavement. This is normal. Over time, the colour fades and blends in with existing surfaces. The shade of concrete used is determined by the local council to ensure consistency.
Under current restoration requirements, only plain concrete will be reinstated on affected pavements. Specialty paving patterns, including decorative or patterned surfaces will not be restored.
Please note: Patterned paving is not permitted over South East Water assets. This ensures safe access for maintenance and protects underground infrastructure.
Got an enquiry? Contact us
If you feel like permanent reinstatement is taking too long, submit an online enquiry or call 132 812 to discuss the situation.