Water jet comes out of a well water tap

Domestic hot water systems

Domestic hot water systems

Owners of so-called service water systems, such as rainwater systems and domestic wells, who use such systems in addition to an existing drinking water connection in the household, are subject to a duty of notification. This arises from § 13 para. 4 of the Drinking Water Ordinance. This does not include exclusive use outside the home, e.g. for irrigation purposes.


  • Why is there a duty to report?

    Service water systems, if not installed properly or operated incorrectly, can contaminate the existing drinking water system in a house. Especially through existing cross-connections with the drinking water pipes or through back-suction processes, entire drinking water networks can be contaminated with pathogens. If there is a contamination of unexplained cause in a local district, the health department and the water supplier can search for the causes in a more targeted manner.

  • Who must comply with a duty of disclosure?

    Every operator or owner of a domestic water system which is operated in a household in addition to a drinking water supply, i.e. also for flushing the toilet and/or the washing machine.

  • When must the notification be made?

    During construction, commissioning, recommissioning and transfer of ownership. Existing installations must be re-registered without delay.

  • How must the notification be made?

    The notification can be made using the form "Notification of service water systems" (see download area on the right) or by calling the district health service.