When Did Build over Agreements Become Necessary

When Did Build Over Agreements Become Necessary?

Build Over Agreements (BOAs) are legal documents that property owners need to obtain when planning to build over or close to an existing public sewer or drain. The purpose of BOAs is to protect public health by ensuring that sewer systems aren`t compromised by new construction, thereby preventing blockages, flooding, and pollution.

But when did BOAs become necessary, and why?

In the early days of urbanization, sewer systems were not as comprehensive or regulated as they are today. Homes and buildings were constructed without much thought given to where their waste would go. As a result, sewage often flowed into rivers, streams, and other bodies of water, creating public health hazards.

As technology progressed and awareness grew about the negative effects of unregulated sewage disposal, public sanitation systems were developed. Cities began constructing centralized networks of pipes and treatment plants to manage the flow of waste. However, as more buildings were constructed, it became clear that the existing public sewer networks were not sufficient to handle the increasing demand.

To address this problem, many cities introduced legislation requiring property owners to connect their buildings to the public sewer system. This helped to ensure that waste was properly disposed of, but it also created a new problem: the need for property owners to build over or close to existing sewer pipes and drains.

As a result, BOAs were introduced as a way to regulate building construction in relation to public sewer systems. BOAs ensure that any new construction or modifications to existing buildings do not compromise the integrity of the public sewer network. They usually require property owners to hire a qualified engineer to assess the impact of the proposed construction on the public sewer system and to design a solution that minimizes any negative effects.

Today, build over agreements are a requirement in many cities and towns around the world. They are seen as an essential part of ensuring public health and preventing negative environmental impacts. By regulating building construction in relation to public sewer systems, BOAs help to protect both individuals and the wider community.

In conclusion, BOAs became necessary as cities developed more comprehensive and regulated sewer systems. As new buildings were constructed and public sewers became more complex, it became essential to regulate building construction in relation to these systems to prevent negative environmental and public health impacts. Today, BOAs are an essential part of the planning process for any construction that impacts public sewer systems.