Do not forget that there is usually a £5,000 liability limit in respect of the standard drainage and water inquiries (CON 29 DW) for residential properties.

Most water companies provide £2m cover for commercial properties, but it is important to make clear at the time of the search that it is for a commercial property (and to pay the increased fee – www.drainageandwater.co.uk has the fees for residential and commercial searches of the major water companies).