L.R.O. 1/2012
LAWS OF GUYANA
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY ACT
CHAPTER 55:01
Act
3 of 1972
Amended by
27 of 1974
5 of 1995 6 of 1997
Current Authorised Pages
Pages
(inclusive)
Authorised
by L.R.O.
1 – 54 ... 1/2012
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Index
of
Subsidiary Legislation
Page
Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition)(La Reconnaissance to Mon
Repos, Soesdyke) Order
24
(O. 123/1974, 19/1977)
Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (Lochaber, West Canje) Order
(O. 101/1975)
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulations
(Reg. 15/1977)
33
Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) Order
( O. 20/1977)
52


Note
on
Revision
The Guyana Water Authority (Supervision and Control) Order, No. 111 of 1977
has been omitted from this publication.
30
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CHAPTER 55:01
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY ACT
ARRANGEMENT OF SECTIONS
SECTION
1. Short title.
2. Interpretation.
3. Establishment and incorporation of the Guyana Water Authority.
4. Constitution of the Authority.
5. Application of certain provisions of the Public Corporations Act to
the Authority.
6. Power of the Minister to give directions to the Authority.
7. Functions of the Authority.
8. Exclusive right of Authority to provide sewage and water services.
9. Disclosure of interest.
10. Authority may delegate their functions to other bodies.
11. Power of Authority to give directions to other bodies.
12. Public stand-pipes.
13. Pressure of water.
14. Recovery of charges.
15. Transitional provisions relating to charges.
16. Limitation Act not to apply to Authority.
17. Provisions for securing the supply of pure and wholesome water.
18. Power to open streets and roads.
19. Drilling and boring of wells prohibited in certain areas.
20. Licence for carrying on the business of boring or drilling wells.
21. Power of Authority to grant licences to plumbers.
22. Approval of plans for sewage works and water works.
23. Entry on premises.
24. Obstructing members of the Authority and other persons.
25. Unauthorised taking of water an offence.
26. Owner or occupier of premises disposing of water supplied by the
Authority.
27. Offences by corporate bodies.
28. Regulations.
29. Acquisition of other undertakings in the public interest.
30. Power to make the Authority subject to the supervision and control
of the Guyana State Corporation.
__________________________
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3 of 1972
CHAPTER 55:01
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY ACT
An Act to provide for the Establishment of the Guyana
Water Authority and for matters connected therewith.
[1ST OCTOBER, 1972]
Short title.

Interpretation.
[27 of 1974]

c. 28:03
1. This Act may be cited as the Guyana Water
Authority Act.
2. In this Act-
“appointed day” means the day appointed by order of the
Minister pursuant to section 1;
“collecting sewer” means the common drain into which is
discharged the sewage from two or more premises and
which conveys that sewage to a street sewer, and
includes all appliances and accessories thereto;
“collecting sewer system” means a collecting sewer together
with all the house-sewers by which sewage is conveyed
into the collecting sewer;
“house sewer” means any drain or pipe for the drainage of
the sewage from a house or building, its areas, water
closets, baths, offices, and stables, to a street sewer or to a
collecting sewer, and includes gully traps, sinks,
approved traps and other accessories;
“local authority” has the meaning assigned to that expression
by section 2 of the Local Authorities (Elections) Act;
“member of the Authority” includes the chairman, the deputy
chairman, and any temporary member of the Authority;
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Establishment
and
incorporation
of the Guyana
Water
Authority.
“owner” means the person for the time being receiving the
rent of the premises in connection with which the word is
used, whether on his own account or as agent or trustee
for any other person or who would so receive the rent if
the premises were let, and where the premises are not let
includes any person in possession thereof;
“premises” includes land;
“sewage” includes drainage, storm water, domestic water,
domestic wastes, commercial wastes and industrial
wastes;
“sewage service” means the acceptance, collection,
transmission, storage, treatment and disposal of sewage,
or any one or more of them;
“sewage works” means any works for the collection,
transmission, treatment and disposal of sewage, or any
part of any such works, but does not include plumbing or
other works to which regulations made pursuant to
section 28(1)(e) apply;
“water service” means the taking, collection, production,
treatment, storage, supply, transmission, distribution,
sale, purchase and use of water or any one or more of
them;
“waterworks” means any works for the collection,
transmission, treatment, storage, supply and distribution
of water, or any part of any such works, but does not
include plumbing or other works to which regulations
made under section 28(1)(e) apply.
3. There is established a body to be called the Guyana
Water Authority (hereinafter referred to as the “Authority”)
which shall be a body corporate.

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Constitution of
the Authority.
[27 of 1974
5 of 1995]
Application of
certain
provisions of
the Public
Corporations
Act to the
Authority.
[27 of 1974]
c. 19:05

Power of the
Minister to give
directions to
the Authority.
[27 of 1974]

4. The Authority shall consist of such number of
persons being not less than twelve nor more than fifteen
members as may be appointed by the Minister.
5. Sections 17 (other than subsection (1) thereof), 18,
19 (other than subsection (9)), sections 20 to 26 (inclusive), 30
to 45 (inclusive), 49, 52, 53, 55, 56 and 58 to 61 (inclusive) of
the Public Corporations Act shall, as the same apply in
relation to a public corporation established under that Act,
apply mutatis mutandis in relation to the Authority, subject to
the following modifications, namely, as if for every reference
to the Guyana State Corporation in sections 22, 23, 26, 31, 33,
38, 44 and 45 there had been substituted a reference to the
Minister.
6. (l) The Minister may give to the Authority
directions of a general character as to the policy to be
followed by the Authority in the performance of their
functions under this Act and the Authority shall give effect to
any such directions.
(2) In carrying out such measures of re-
organisation or such works of development as involve
substantial outlay on capital account, the Authority shall act
in accordance with a general programme approved by the
Minister.
(3) In the exercise of their functions in relation to
training, education and research, the Authority shall act in
accordance with a general programme approved as aforesaid.
(4) The Authority shall afford to the Minister
facilities for obtaining information with respect to the
business of the Authority and shall furnish annual estimates
and such returns and other information as the Minister may
require.
(5) The Authority shall provide such facilities to
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Functions of
the Authority.
[27 of 1974
6 of 1997]
the Minister as will enable the verification of information
furnished in pursuance of this section.
(6) The power of the Minister to give directions to
the Authority shall extend to the giving to them of specific
directions as to the disposal of capital assets or the application
of the proceeds of such disposals, and any direction so given
may require the whole or any part of the revenues of the
Authority to be paid into the Consolidated Fund.
7. (1) Subject to this Act, it is the function of the
Authority –
(a) to control and regulate the collection,
production, treatment, storage,
transmission, distribution and use of
water (including the supervision of
surface waters and ground waters in
Guyana), and to make orders with
respect thereto;
(b) to construct, acquire, provide, operate
and maintain waterworks and to
develop and make available supplies
of water to the public;
(c) to construct, acquire, provide, operate
and maintain sewage works and to
receive, treat and dispose of sewage;
(d) to make agreements with any person
with respect to the supply of water, or
the reception, treatment and disposal
of sewage;
(e) to conduct research programmes for
the purpose of their functions under
this Act;
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Exclusive right
of Authority to
provide
sewage and
water services.
(f) to disseminate information and
advice with respect to the collection,
production, transmission, treatment,
storage, supplies and distribution of
water or sewerage and to charge fees
in respect thereof;
(g) to advise the Minister on matters
relating to the collection, production,
transmission, treatment, storage,
supply and distribution of water, and
to the treatment and disposal of
sewage;
(h) to perform such other functions, not
inconsistent with this Act, as may be
assigned to them, from time to time,
by the Minister;
(i) to carry on such other activities as
may appear to the Authority
requisite, advantageous or conducive
for or in connection with the
performance of their functions under
this Act.
(2) Every person who contravenes, or fails to
comply with, an order made by the Authority pursuant to
subsection (l)(a) is liable on summary conviction to a fine of
thirty-two thousand five hundred dollars and, in addition to a
further penalty of three thousand two hundred and fifty
dollars for every day during which the offence continues.
8. (1) Subject to this Act, the Authority has the
exclusive right to provide sewage services and water services
–
(a) in those areas of Guyana provided
with sewage services and water
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Disclosure of
interest.
[27 of 1974
6 of 1997]
services or either of such services by
the Pure Water Supply Division of the
Ministry of Works, Hydraulics and
Supply immediately before the
commencement of this Act; and
(b) in those other areas of Guyana which,
immediately before the
commencement of this Act, were not
being provided with sewage services
and water services or either of such
services by any statutory body.
(2) The Authority shall, within the areas
mentioned in subsection (1), provide sewage services and
water services or either of such services for any person
requiring the provision of those services upon such terms and
conditions as the Authority may determine except that until
such time as the Authority are able to provide any such area
with sewage services and water services they may in exercise
of their powers under section 10 authorise any local authority
or other body to provide those services on their behalf.
(3) Subject to this Act, the Authority, within the
areas provided with sewage services and water services by
the Authority, have the exclusive right to make connections of
premises with the nearest water main or sewer in the roads of
those areas, and any renewal of those connections and all
repairs thereto, at any time the Authority find it necessary to
do so.
9. (1) A member of the Authority, who is in any way,
whether directly or indirectly, interested in a contract or
proposed contract with the Authority shall disclose to the
Authority the fact and nature of his interest at the first
meeting of the Authority at which it is practicable for him to
do so and shall not take part in any deliberation or decision of
the Authority relating to the contract; and the disclosure shall
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be recorded in the minutes of the Authority.
(2) This section does not apply to –
(a) an interest in a contract which a
member of the Authority may have
by reason of making payments to the
Authority in respect of water service
or sewage service provided by the
Authority; or
(b) an interest in any matter relating to
the terms on which the right to
participate in any service provided by
the Authority, is offered to the public.
(3) For the purpose of this section, a person –
(a) who, or any nominee of whom, is a
shareholder or partner in a company
or other body of persons (other than a
statutory authority), or
(b) who is an employee thereof,
shall be treated as having indirectly a pecuniary interest in a
contract, if such company or other body of persons is a party
to the contract or proposed contract under consideration.
(4) Nothing in subsection (3) applies to any person
who, but for the provisions of subsection (3), would not fail to
be treated as having indirectly a pecuniary interest in a
contract if the total value of his shareholding or other interest
does not exceed the amount of the total nominal value of the
issued share capital of the company or body as may be
prescribed by order of the Minister.
(5) Without prejudice to subsection (6), the
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Authority may
delegate their
functions to
other bodies.
Power of
Authority to
give directions
to other bodies.
[6 of 1997]
Minister may terminate the appointment of any member of
the Authority appointed by him who fails to comply with this
section.

(6) A person who fails to comply with this section
is liable on summary conviction to a fine of sixteen thousand
two hundred and fifty dollars for every offence, unless he
proves that he did not know that a contract or proposed
contract in which he had a pecuniary interest was the subject
of consideration at the meeting.
10. (1) The Authority may, if they think fit, by order
delegate to any local authority or other body the power to
carry out on their behalf in the area administered by the local
authority or such other area as may be specified in the order,
as the case may be, such of the functions of the Authority as
may be specified in the order.
(2) Where the Authority delegate any of their
functions pursuant to subsection (1), the local authority or
other body shall, notwithstanding the provisions of any other
law, have power to perform the functions so delegated.
11. (1) The Authority have power to give directions of
a general or special character to any statutory or other body
as to the exercise by the statutory or other body of their
functions by virtue of any enactment or otherwise, in
connection with the provision of sewage services and water
services as appear to the Authority to be requisite in the
public interest and, anything in any such enactment or in any
instrument conferring functions on such other body to the
contrary notwithstanding, the statutory or other body shall
give effect to any such directions.
(2) Where a statutory or other body fails or
neglects to give effect to any direction given by the Authority
pursuant to subsection (1), the Authority may themselves
perform the necessary functions and any expenditure thereby
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Public stand-
pipes.
Pressure of
water.
Recovery of
charges.
incurred by the Authority is recoverable from the statutory or
other body by action as a civil debt in a court of competent
jurisdiction and the payment of any such expenditure shall be
a purpose for which the statutory or other body may borrow
money in accordance with the statutory or other provisions
relating to borrowing by the statutory authority or other
body.
(3) Without prejudice to the remedy provided by
subsection (2), any statutory or other body which fails or
neglects to give effect to any direction given by the Authority
pursuant to subsection (1) is liable on summary conviction to
a fine of one hundred and thirty thousand dollars.
(4) Every statutory or other body shall afford to the
Authority facilities for obtaining information with respect to
their activities and shall furnish them with returns, accounts
and other information with respect thereto in such manner
and at such times as the Authority may require.
12. The Authority may erect, maintain and supply
with water in such places within Guyana as they think fit,
public stand-pipes for the public use, and may remove any
such stand-pipe which, in their opinion, is no longer required,
and may make regulations as to the use of and payment for
water from public stand-pipes.
13. The Authority shall not be required to provide
water services at any specific pressure but those persons
requiring the provision of water services at a greater amount
of pressure than that made available by the Authority, shall
provide themselves at their expense with the means for that
purpose; any device, equipment, apparatus or installation to
be used by any person in connection therewith requires the
prior approval of the Authority.
14. (1) Subject to section 15, the charges made by the
Authority for the provision of sewage services and water
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c. 7:01
services shall be payable and recoverable in accordance with
the provisions of this section.
(2) Where water is supplied in bulk to any person
by the Authority any moneys payable to the Authority for the
water so supplied shall be recoverable by the Authority from
the person to whom the water has been supplied in bulk.
(3) The charges for any service rendered by the
Authority on any premises in connection with any installation
or apparatus used in connection with the provision of sewage
services and water services, or any other service (including
the cost of replacing any installation or apparatus) shall be
borne by the owner of the premises and shall be recoverable
from him by the Authority.
(4) Except where an owner of premises who is not
himself the occupier thereof is liable by or under any law, or
by agreement with the Authority, to pay the charges for the
provision of sewage services and water services, those
charges shall be payable by the occupier of the premises.
(5) The charges payable by any person may, after
the demand therefor, be recovered from the person liable
therefor by the Authority by action as a civil debt, irrespective
of the amount, under the Summary Jurisdiction (Petty Debt)
Act against the person liable for the payment of the charges.
(6) Subject as hereinafter provided in this section,
where a person fails to pay within seven days after a demand
therefor any charges payable by him by virtue of this Act for
the water services or sewage services the Authority may cut
off the supply of water to the premises and recover the
expenses reasonably incurred in so doing in the same manner
as the charges due, save that if, before the expiration of the
said seven days, notice in writing is given to them that there
is a dispute as to the amount due in respect of the charges, the
Authority shall not cut off the supply of water until the
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dispute has, on the application of either party, been settled by
a court of summary jurisdiction, but only if the occupier
tenders the amount due in respect of the charges, without
prejudice to the dispute.
(7) Where at the date when any charges in respect of
any premises become due, the owner of the premises is liable
by or under any enactment, or by agreement with the
Authority, to pay the charges for the provision of sewage or
water services and is not himself the occupier thereof, the
Authority shall not cut off the supply of water to the premises
for a failure by him to pay any such charges, but the charges,
without prejudice to the right of the Authority to enforce
payment thereof by him, may be recovered by the Authority
either from the owner for the time being, or, subject as
hereinafter provided, from the occupier for the time being, of
the premises in the manner in which charges for the provision
of sewage services or water services are recoverable.
(8) Where the occupier of the premises is not the
owner thereof –
(a) proceedings shall not be commenced
under subsection (7) against the
occupier until notice has been served
on him requiring him to pay the
amount due or which may thereafter
become due, from him, and he has
failed to comply with the notice;
(b) no greater sum shall be recoverable at
any one time from the occupier than
the amount of rent, which is owing by
him, or which has accrued since such
notice as aforesaid was served on
him; and
(c) if the occupier, as between himself
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Transitional
provisions
relating to
charges.

Limitation Act
not to apply to
the Authority.
c. 7:02
Provisions for
securing the
supply of pure
and wholesome
water.
[27 of 1974]

Power to open
streets and
roads.
and the owner of the premises, is not
liable to pay the charges he is entitled
to deduct from the rent payable by
him any sum paid by him in
compliance with the notice or so
recovered from him.
15. Notwithstanding any agreement or rule of law to
the contrary, where any premises is at the commencement of
this Act, provided with sewage services or water services by
the Authority, until the owner thereof gives notice in writing
to the Authority of the name of the occupier and the
Authority make demand on the occupier therefor, the charges
in respect of such premises is payable by the owner thereof.
16. Nothing in the Limitation Act in any way affects
any right of the Authority in respect of the recovery of any
moneys due and payable to the Authority.
17. (1) The Authority shall cause to be made physical,
chemical, bacteriological, biological and other examinations
of, and experiment as to the condition of, the water to be
supplied by them.
(2) The Authority shall make available to the
Minister the reports of any examinations or experiments
mentioned in subsection (1) as may be required from time to
time by him.
18. For the purpose of laying down, extending,
inspecting, maintaining, altering, renewing or repairing any
water main, sewer, or any branch thereof, or any pipes or
works in connection therewith, the Authority may open or
break up any street or road or portion thereof subject to the
following conditions –
(a) the Authority shall give to the local
authority in whose area the street or
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Drilling and
boring of wells
prohibited in
certain areas.
[6 of 1997]
road is situate or such other person in
whom the maintenance of the street
or road is vested, not less than two
days’ notice of the intention of
opening or breaking up the street or
road, specifying the time of beginning
and the portion of street or road to be
opened or broken up; but in cases of
urgency the Authority may open or
break up a street or road and shall
forthwith inform the local authority
or other person of the fact;
(b) until the street or road is restored, the
place where it is opened or broken up
shall be adequately fenced, and
lighted in such manner as to give
proper warning to the public during
the period between six o’clock in the
evening of any day and five o’clock in
the morning of the following day;
(c) the Authority shall not, without the
consent of the local authority or other
person, open or break at any one time
a greater length than one hundred
yards of a street or road;
(d) the Authority shall restore the street
or road to the satisfaction of the local
authority or other person.
19. (1) No person shall make a well or hole in the
ground for the purpose of obtaining water, except by digging,
in any area designated by the regulations without a permit
issued by the Authority.
(2) A permit issued under subsection (1) may be
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Licence for
carrying on the
business of
boring or
drilling wells.
[6 of 1997]
Power of
Authority to
grant licences
to plumbers.
[6 of 1997]
issued subject to such terms and conditions as the Authority
may deem fit to impose and may be revoked at any time by
the Authority.
(3) Every person who contravenes subsection (1) or
any of the terms and conditions of a permit is liable on
summary conviction to a fine of thirty-two thousand five
hundred dollars and to imprisonment for six months.
20. (1) No person shall carry on the business of boring
or drilling wells for water unless he is the holder of a licence
therefor from the Authority.
(2) Upon application therefor in the prescribed
form and upon payment of the prescribed fee, the Authority
may issue or renew, as the case may be, a licence to carry on
the business of boring or drilling wells for water.
(3) Subject to subsection (4), every such licence
expires on the 31st December in every year.
(4) The Authority may suspend or revoke a licence
at any time.
(5) Every person to whom a licence has been
issued under this section shall, within one month after the
boring or drilling of a well for water, make a return to the
Authority in the manner required by the Authority.
(6) Every person who contravenes this section is
liable on summary conviction to a fine of thirty-two thousand
five hundred dollars and to imprisonment for six months.
21. (1) The Authority may grant licences authorising
persons (to be known as “licensed plumbers”) to construct,
execute, repair or perform work in connection with the
provision of water and sewage services to any premises from
water works and sewage works as the Authority think fit.
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c. 30:01
(2) It shall be the duty of licensed plumbers to act
in accordance with this Act and to carry out the orders of the
Authority or any person authorised by the Authority; licensed
plumbers are responsible for the acts and omissions of all
those persons employed by them.
(3) The Authority may by regulations made under
section 28 prescribe the fees to be paid for examination and
licences of plumbers.
(4) The Authority may, in their discretion, suspend
or cancel the licence of a licensed plumber who is guilty of
misconduct in the performance of his duties under this Act.
(5) The grant, suspension or cancellation of a
licence shall be published in the Gazette and a newspaper
circulating in Guyana.
(6) No person other than a licensed plumber may
do any act mentioned in subsection (1), and an unlicensed
person who does any such act or a person who causes it to be
done by the unlicensed person is liable on summary
conviction to a fine of sixteen thousand two hundred and fifty
dollars except that a person employed by the Authority shall
be deemed to be a licensed plumber with regard to the work
done by him that is authorised by the Authority.
(7) Nothing in this section affects a licence to
execute any work mentioned in subsection (l) granted by the
Georgetown Sewerage and Water Commissioners under
section 26 of the Georgetown Sewerage and Water
Commissioners Act, or by the Mayor and Town Council of
New Amsterdam, and in force at the commencement of this
Act.
(8) Notwithstanding the provisions of any other
law, no licence to execute any work mentioned in subsection
(1) shall be granted by a person other than the Authority after
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Approval of
plans for
sewage works
and water
works.
[6 of 1997]

Entry on
premises.
the commencement of this Act without the approval of the
Authority.
22. (1) Notwithstanding anything in any other law to
the contrary no person shall construct any sewage works or
water works, or extend or alter any sewage works or water
works unless the plans, specifications and an engineer’s
report of the works to be undertaken, together with such
other information as the Authority may require, have been
submitted to the Authority for their approval, and no such
works shall be undertaken or proceeded with without the
approval of the Authority.
(2) The approval of the Authority may be granted
subject to such terms and conditions as the Authority deem
necessary.
(3) Where a person undertakes or proceeds with the
establishment of any sewage works or water works, or the
extension or alteration of any sewage works or water works,
without first obtaining the approval of the Authority, the
Authority may order that person to afford at his own expense
such facilities as the Authority may deem necessary for the
investigation of the works and may direct such changes to be
made in the works as the Authority may deem necessary, and
any changes directed by the Authority to be made in the
works shall be carried out by the person at his own expense.
(4) Every person who contravenes subsection (1), or
fails to comply with any term or condition imposed by the
Authority pursuant to subsection (2), or fails to comply with
any direction given by the Authority under subsection (3), is
liable on summary conviction to a fine of one hundred and
thirty thousand dollars and to imprisonment for twelve
months.
23. It shall be lawful for the Authority, their agents,
officers and employees so authorised by the Authority, at any
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Obstructing
members of the
Authority and
other persons.
[6 of 1997]

Unauthorised
taking of water
an offence.
[6 of 1997]

Owner or
occupier of
premises
disposing of
water supplied
by the
Authority.
[6 of 1997]
Offences by
corporate
bodies.
time for their purposes to enter into any premises provided
with water services and sewage services or either of such
services by the Authority for the purpose of examining the
pipes or means by which the premises are provided with such
services, or any apparatus or thing used on the premises in
connection therewith.
24. Any person who assaults, molests, obstructs or in
any other manner whatever hinders a member of the
Authority or an authorised agent, officer or employee of the
Authority, in the exercise of the functions conferred upon
them by this Act, is liable on summary conviction to a fine of
sixteen thousand two hundred and fifty dollars or to
imprisonment for three months.
25. A person who not being supplied with water by
the Authority takes water from any installation operated by
or on behalf of the Authority, other than such as may have
been provided for the use of the public, is liable on summary
conviction to a fine of sixteen thousand two hundred and fifty
dollars and to imprisonment for a term of three months.
26. The owner or occupier of any premises supplied
with water by the Authority who uses the water or permits
the same to be used for the purposes of any other premises or
who supplies or disposes of the water to any other person is
liable on summary conviction to a fine of six thousand five
hundred dollars.

27. Where a person convicted of an offence against
this Act is a body corporate, every person who at the time of
the commission of the offence was a director or officer of the
body corporate is guilty of that offence unless he proves that
the offence was committed without his knowledge, or that he
exercised all due diligence to prevent the commission of the
offence.

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 21
L.R.O. 1/2012
Regulations.
[6 of 1997]
28. (1) The Authority, with the approval of the
Minister, may make regulations for giving effect to and for
carrying out the provisions of this Act and, without prejudice
to the generality of the foregoing the regulations may –
(a) prescribe the charges to be made for
the provision of sewage services and
water services by the Authority;
(b) make provision for the inspection,
testing and maintenance of
installations and apparatus and in
respect of the fixing, testing and
renting of meters, and of any other
services rendered by the Authority in
pursuance of their functions under
this Act;
(c) prescribe the charges to be made by
the Authority for the laying and
construction of house sewers (not
being part of a collecting sewer
system) and of the requisite
appliances and accessories thereto;
(d) prescribe the form of application for
the provision of sewage services and
water services;
(e) regulate the types of fittings that may
be used;
(f) prescribe the conditions for the
discontinuance of the supply of water
in cases otherwise than as provided in
this Act;
(g) regulate the use of water from public
LAWS OF GUYANA
22 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
L.R.O. 1/2012


Acquisition of
other under-
takings in the
public interest.
stand-pipes;
(h) provide for the proper use and
conservation of water, including the
prevention of waste, contamination or
pollution of water.
(2) Nothing in subsection (1) prevents the
Authority from charging by special agreement other charges
where the charges prescribed pursuant to subsection (1) are
inapplicable.
(3) There may be annexed to any regulation for a
breach thereof a fine on summary conviction of thirteen
thousand dollars and imprisonment for a term of three
months.
29. (1) Where any person other than the Authority
(hereinafter referred to as “the undertaker”) provides sewage
and water services in any area of Guyana and the Minister
considers it to be in the public interest that the undertaking
carried on by the undertaker in so far as it relates to the
provision of sewage and water services should be acquired by
the Authority, the Minister may, by order, declare that with
effect from such day, being not earlier than one month after
the date of the making of the order as may be specified in the
order (hereinafter in this section referred to as “the vesting
day”) the said undertaking shall be transferred to and vested
in the Authority.
(2) An order made under subsection (1) may
contain –
(a) such provisions relating to the vesting
of property, transfer of assets and
liabilities, the employment of persons
employed by the undertaker,
monetary arrangements, the
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 23
L.R.O. 1/2012

c. 1:01
Power to make
the Authority
subject to the
supervision
and control of
the Guyana
State
Corporation.
[27 of 1974]
c. 27:02
preservation of rights and liabilities
existing immediately before the
vesting day;
(b) provision amending, modifying or
repealing any enactment which in the
opinion of the Minister is necessary to
give effect to the order;
(c) such other provisions as the Minister
may consider necessary or expedient
for the purpose of giving effect to the
order.
(3) To such extent, if any, as may be required by
article 8 of the Constitution, provision is hereby made in
terms of paragraph (1) (a) and (b) of that article in relation to
any undertaking (including any interest in or right over such
undertaking) acquired by the Authority by virtue of an order
made by the Minister under subsection (1).
(4) Where the Authority acquire the undertaking of
any undertaker under this section or otherwise, the Authority
have the exclusive right to provide sewage services and water
services in the area provided with such services by the
undertaker immediately before the acquisition of the
undertaking by the Authority.
30. The Minister may, if he considers it to be in the
public interest, by order which shall be subject to negative
resolution, appoint a date with effect from which the
Authority shall become subject to the supervision and control
of the Guyana State Corporation and, with effect from that
date, sections 2 to 5 (inclusive) of the Guyana Water
Authority (Amendment) Act 1974 shall cease to have effect
and this Act shall thereafter be construed and have effect as if
those sections had not been enacted.
___________________
LAWS OF GUYANA
24 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
L.R.O. 1/2012
SUBSIDIARY LEGISLATION
_________________
O. 123/1974
19/1977 GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY
(ACQUISITION) (LA RECONNAISSANCE-
MON REPOS, SOESDYKE) ORDER
made under section 27
Citation.
Interpretation.
c. 69:03

Undertaking of
Committee to
vest in
Authority.
Property vests
in Authority
Schedule.
1. (1) This Order may be cited as the Guyana Water
Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order.
2. In this Order-
“Committee” means the Committee established by the Sugar
Industry Special Funds Act to control the Sugar
Industry Labour Welfare Fund;
“the undertaking” means the sewerage and water services
and systems owned, provided and operated by the
Committee within that area of Guyana extending
from the eastern boundary of the La Reconnaissance-
Mon Repos Local Government District to the southern
boundary of the Soesdyke Village District.
3. On the coming into operation of this Order the
undertaking of Committee shall vest in the Authority.
4. For the purposes of the vesting referred to in clause
3 the property set out in the Schedule, being the assets
(including rights and interests) of the Committee and used by

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 25
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Effect of
acquisition.
cl. 4
it in the carrying on of the undertaking, shall vest in the
Authority.
5. The Authority shall continue to employ, on such
terms and conditions as may be agreed on between the
Authority and him, any person exclusively employed
immediately before the coming into operation of this Order in
the service of the undertaking:
Provided that any person who is so employed by the
Authority shall be employed on terms and conditions which
taken as a whole are no less favourable than those applicable
to him immediately before the coming into operation of this
Order.
SCHEDULE
1. The Committee's right, title and interest in-
(a) Area “E”, being a portion of
Plantation Vryheid's Lust, East Coast,
Demerara, having an area of 0.200 of
an acre and being defined on a plan
by I. Sheer Mohamed, Sworn Land
Surveyor, dated 26th July, 1965 and
deposited in the Deeds Registry at
Georgetown on 28th December, 1967;
and
(b) Lots 95 and 96 included in an area of
100 lots numbered 16 to 115 being
portions of Block “X”, part of an area
of 20.002 acres and Block “3” being
portion of Lot “B” North Part of
Plantation Land of Canaan, East Bank,
Demerara, shown on a Plan by I.
LAWS OF GUYANA
26 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
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Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Sheer Mohamed, Sworn Land
Surveyor, dated 20th September, 1972
and deposited in the Department of
Lands on 22nd September, 1972 as
Plan No. 15108, together with and
subject to all the easements,
servitudes, rights, benefits,
stipulations, restrictions and
obligations as contained in the
Transports held for the lands
described at (a) and (b) above with
intent that the same shall run with
and be binding upon whosesoever
hand the same may come.
2. The rights and interests of the Committee in and
over-
(a) The lot marked “Artesian Well” being
a portion of the Front Lands of
Plantation Annandale, also called
Annandale West, part of Plantation
Lusignan situate on the east sea coast
of the county of Demerara, Guyana,
the said lot and Plantations being laid
down and defined on a Plan by R. S.
Wilkins, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated
22nd June, 1957, and recorded in the
Department of Lands as Plan No.
7948;
(b) Lot “D” containing an area of .169 of
an acre being a portion of Area “H”,
Plantation Lusignan, situate on the
east sea coast of the county of
Demerara, Guyana, the said lot “D”
and the said Area “H”, being laid
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 27
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
down and defined on a Plan by I. S.
Mohamed, Sworn Land Surveyor,
dated 26th October, 1966, and
recorded in the Department of Lands
as Plan No. 12,223;
(c) Firstly, lot numbered 42 being a
portion of Area “H”, Plantations
Success and Chateau Margot, situate
on the east sea coast of the county of
Demerara, Guyana, and secondly an
area measuring 33 feet by 23 feet lying
at the south eastern end of the said lot
42 between the road south of the said
lot and the southern boundary of the
said Area “H”, the said lot 42 and the
said Area “H” being laid down and
defined on a Plan by I. S. Mohamed,
Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 30th
April, 1962, and recorded in the
Department of Lands as Plan No.
10,433;
(d) Lot “A” being a portion of Plantation
Vryheid's Lust, situate on the east sea
coast of the county of Demerara,
Guyana, and laid down and defined
on a Plan by I. S. Mohamed, Sworn
Land Surveyor, dated 26th July, 1965,
and recorded in the Department of
Lands as Plan No. 11,672;
(e) Blocks “A” and “B” being portions of
Area “D” of Plantation Ogle, situate
on the east sea coast of the county of
Demerara, Guyana, and laid down
and defined on a Plan by I. S.
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28 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
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L.R.O. 1/2012
Mohamed, Sworn Land Surveyor,
dated 14th September, 1962, and
recorded in the Department of Lands
as Plan No. 10,528;
(f) An area situate northwest of the
junction of the East Bank Public Road
and the street extending westwards
therefrom to lots 28 and 29, the said
area extending 110 feet westwards
from the said Public Road and 80 feet
northwards from the said street, the
said Public Road and street and the
said lots 28 and 29 being laid down
and defined on a Plan of part of the
front lands of Plantation Peter's Hall,
situate on the East Bank of the
Demerara River, in the county of
Demerara, Guyana, by Moorsalene S.
Ali, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 28th
May, 1962, and recorded in the
Department of Lands as Plan No.
10,370;
(g) Lots numbered 226, 227 and 228,
marked “Artesian Well and
Compound” as shown and defined on
a Plan of portion of Plantations Jardin
de Provence and Herstelling, known
as Herstelling Extra Nuclear Housing
Scheme, situate on the East Bank of
the Demerara River, in the county of
Demerara, Guyana, by Moorsalene S.
Ali, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated 28th
June, 1961, and recorded in the
Department of Lands as Plan No.
9928;
LAWS OF GUYANA
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(h) Lot numbered 6 Area “D” part of
Plantation Little Diamond as shown
and defined on a Plan of the area of
477 Lots bordered green on the front
lands of Plantations Covent Garden,
Prospect and Little Diamond, situate
on the East Bank of the Demerara
River, in the county of Demerara,
Guyana, by Moorsalene S. Ali, Sworn
Land Surveyor, dated 25th
September, 1961, and recorded in the
Department of Lands as Plan No.
10,045; and
(i) Lot numbered 134 and marked
“Artesian Well” part of the south east
block of the Grove Extra Nuclear
Housing Area, situate in the front
lands of Plantation Golden Grove,
situate on the East Bank of the
Demerara River, in the county of
Demerara, Guyana, as laid down and
defined on a Plan of the Grove Extra
Nuclear Housing Area, by
Moorsalene S. Ali, Sworn Land
Surveyor, dated 28th December, 1961,
and recorded in the Department of
Lands as Plan No. 10,216.
being the sites of wells, pump-houses, overhead and ground-
level storage tanks, reservoirs and other buildings, structures
and erections relating to the supply of water, including
fences, gates, culverts, bridges for access to and from the said
sites and, more particularly, the timber traffic bridge across
the Vryheid's Lust West Side Line providing ingress and
egress to the aforesaid Area “BB” Vryheid's Lust, East Coast,

LAWS OF GUYANA
30 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
O. 101/1975

Citation.
Interpretation.
Demerara save and except the workshop, bond and storage
yard of the Committee, with the land appurtenant thereto, at
Eccles, East Bank, Demerara.
3. (a) Pipelines and water distribution
mains, including hydrants, valves
with over-trench trestles and
structures;
(b) wells complete with deep well
turbines; or submersible pumps and
ancillary equipment;
(c) pump houses and switch gear houses
complete with diesel engines, fuel
tanks, switch gears, motors, auto-
transformers, electrical fittings and
other equipment, furniture, and
fittings therein; and
(d) overhead tanks, ground level tanks,
steel towers for elevated tanks.
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY (ACQUISITION)
(LOCHABER, WEST CANJE) ORDER
made under section 27
1. (1) This Order may be cited as the Guyana Water
uthority (Acquisition) (Lochaber, West Canje) Order.
2. In this Order-
“Committee” means the Committee established by the Sugar
Guyana ater Authority (Acquisitions), Lochaber/West Canje) Order
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 31
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
c. 69:03

Undertaking of
Committee to
vest in
Authority.
Property vests
in Authority
Schedule.

Effect of
acquisition.
cl. 4
Industry Special Funds Act to control the Sugar Industry
Labour Welfare Fund;
“undertaking” means the water supply services and systems
owned, provided and operated by the Committee and
situated at Lochaber, West Canje, in the County of
Berbice.
3. On the coming into operation of this Order the
undertaking of the Committee shall vest in the Authority.
4. For the purposes of the vesting referred to in clause
3 the property set out in the Schedule, being the assets
(including rights and interests) of the Committee and used by
it in the carrying on of the undertaking, shall vest in the
Authority.
5. The Authority shall continue to employ, on such
terms and conditions as may be agreed on between the
Authority and him, any person exclusively employed
immediately before the coming into operation of this Order in
the service of the undertaking:
Provided that any person who is so employed by the
Authority shall be employed on terms and conditions which
taken as a whole are no less favourable than those applicable
to him immediately before the coming into operation of this
Order.
SCHEDULE
1. The Committee's rights and interests in –
(a) the piece or parcel of land measuring
144 feet by 20 feet by 112 feet by 100
Guyana Water Authority (Acquisitions), (Lo haber/West Ca je)
Ord r
LAWS OF GUYANA
32 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
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L.R.O. 1/2012
feet situate southwest of Area “A”
and south of and between Lots 1 and
2 of the said Area “A” as shown and
defined on a plan by I. S. Mohamed,
Sworn Land Surveyor, and recorded
in the Department of Lands and
Mines as No. 12399, with the well
thereon complete with pump-house,
diesel engines, deep well turbine
pump, fuel tank, electrical
installations and fittings, furniture
and other fittings, fence, and gate,
culvert and bridge providing access to
and from the well site;
(b) the road lying along the Reserve West
of the said Area “A” and extending
southwards from the Public Road
providing access to and from the said
well site;
(c) the pipelines, water mains, hydrants,
valves, trestles, conduits and
structures extending from the well to
and within the said Area “A”.
_________________
Guyana Water Authority (Acquisitions), Lochaber/West Canje) Order
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 33
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Citation.

Interpretation.
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY SUPPLY REGULATIONS
made under section 26
1. These Regulations may be cited as the Guyana Water
Authority Supply Regulations.
2. In these Regulations—
“air-gap separation” means the unobstructed vertical distance
through the free atmosphere between the lowest opening
from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank,
plumbing fixture, or other device and the flood level rim
of the receptacle;
“approved air-gap separation” means an air-gap separation
which is at least double the diameter of the supply pipe
measured vertically above the top rim of the vessel and
the gap is not less than one inch in diameter;
“approved check valve” means a check valve of substantial
construction and suitable material that is positive in
closing and permits no leakage in a direction reverse to
the normal flow;
“back-flow prevention device” means any effective device
method or type of construction used to prevent back-
flow into the water system of the Authority;
“connection to the main” means the service stop cock and any
length of piping between such stop-cock and the water
main ferrule together with any fitting attached thereto;
“ consumer” means any person supplied with or who has
applied for a supply of water and includes any person
who is using water from the Authority, or whose
premises is connected with the Authority’s main for the
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation
LAWS OF GUYANA
34 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
purpose of receiving a supply of water, or who is liable
for payment of rates or monies due or to become due
under these Regulations;
“consumption” means any quantity of water ascertained in
accordance with these Regulations as having been used
by a consumer;
“cut-off” in relation to a supply of water, means stop the
supply, weather by operating a tap, by disconnecting
pipes or otherwise;
“developer” means any person applying to the Authority for
permission to extend or make alternation to a main for
the purpose of obtaining a supply of water to the
premises of that person;
“double check valve assembly” means an assembly composed
of two single independently acting approved checked
valves and includes the tightly closing shut off valves
located at each end of the assembly and any suitable
connections for testing the water tightness of each check
valve;
“main” means any pipe and fittings owned and maintained
by the Authority for the purpose of supplying water and
includes any connections thereto;
“meter” means a meter installed by the Authority on the
premises of the consumer for measuring a ascertaining or
registering the amount of water taken or used from the
Authority by the consumer;
“supply pipes” means any section of a main which is used for
the supply of water to the installation of the consumer;
“supply contract” means a contract between the Authority
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 35
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Supply of
water.
Meters and
pipes.
Application for
supply of
water.

Power to
connect meter
or supply pipe
to consumers’
installations.
and a consumer for the supply of water;
“trader” means a person who has entered into a supply
contact with the Authority to receive a supply of water in
bulk for the purpose of resale to the public.
3. The Authority shall have the exclusive right to connect
or disconnect pipes or any approved installation of a
consumer to the main of the Authority.
4. Except as otherwise provided in these Regulations,
water supplied by the Authority to any premises shall be
through a meter of supply pipe provided by the Authority.
5. A person may apply to the Authority for a supply of
water to any premises within the area of supply of the
Authority and the application shall be in the form provided
by the Authority.
6. The Authority shall have the right at any time after the
commencement of these Regulations to determine whether a
supply of water to the consumer shall be through a meter or
connect any such meter or supply pipe to the installations of
the consumer.
7. (1) Subject the provisions of paragraph (2) the
Authority shall, as it deems fit, provide connection to the
main up to the point of entry of a meter or up to the
installations of the consumer.
(2) The Authority may require a consumer to
contribute to the whole part of the cost of the connection or of
maintaining and repairing the connection to the main, and
notwithstanding such contributions, any connection by the
Authority to the main shall remain the property of the
Authority.
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation
LAWS OF GUYANA
36 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
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Requirements
to be fulfilled.
Size and
ownership of
mater.
(3) The Authority shall not connect a supply of water to
any premises unless:
(a) the installation on the premises to
which the supply is to be connected
has been approved by the Authority.
(b) the consumer has complied with the
provision of these Regulations and
has paid any required deposit
thereunder; and
(c) in the opinion of the Authority the
main which is to be used has the
capacity to provide water adequate in
volume and pressure for the premises
of the consumer.
8. The Authority shall require—
(a) that the consumer pays in advance to
the Authority any charges for, or in
relation to the installation, use, testing
and removal of any supply pipes,
meter or other installation;
(b) that the applicant obtain for the
Authority all necessary permission
and licences for entry on the premises
for installation of any connection to
the main and of meters as may be
required.
9. (1) The Authority shall determine the size and number
of any meter which shall be installed on any premises and
may change a meter at any time.
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 37
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Contract for
supply of
water.
Contract not
assignable.

Termination of
supply
contract.
Deposit.
First Schedule.
(2) All meters shall remain the property of the Authority
whether fitted within the boundaries of the premises or
otherwise.
10. Upon the Authority making available a supply of
water, to the consumer, the application form submitted by the
consumer shall constitute a supply contract within these
Regulations between the consumer and the Authority:
Provided that the Authority may, before it connects the
supply of water, require the consumer to enter into a separate
contract for the supply of water on such terms not being
inconsistent with the Act or these Regulations as the
Authority may determine.
11. A consumer shall not be entitled to assign the benefit
of his supply contract or his right to a supply of water, and
shall not sell, or caused to be sold or supplied to any other
person water supplied to him without first obtaining the
written approval of the Authority.
12. Without prejudice to the right of the Authority to cut
off the supply of water, a supply contract may be determined
by the consumer at any time by serving not less than one
month’s notice to the effect on the Authority.
13. (1) Subject to this Regulation, upon submitting an
application, the consumer shall deposit with the Authority by
way of security for charges and rates for the supply of water
such sum of money as is set out in the First Schedule, and
such further sum, as is payable by the consumer in accordance
with these Regulations.
(2) The Authority shall have the right to increase the
deposit required under paragraph (1) of any consumer if in its
opinion it is satisfied that the deposit is not adequate to
guarantee the payment of such accounts as may be rendered
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

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38 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
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The return of
deposits.

Persons liable
for payments
of water rates.
or for such reason as, but not limited to, cases where a
consumer fails to pay his accounts on the due date on more
than three occasions in any twelve months or has had his
services at one address terminated by the Authority, or where
the size of the service connection being used is larger or the
consumer has had the service connection at his present
address enlarged.
(3) In any case where the Authority considers it
reasonable to do so, the Authority may waive the deposit
required under this regulation or may allow a lesser sum to be
made for the deposit.
14. (1) The deposit made under Regulation 13 shall be
returned to the consumer to the termination of the supply
contract, subject to the deduction therefrom of all outstanding
amounts due to the Authority by the consumer.
(2) Simple interest at the rate of four percent shall be
payable by the Authority on a deposit when it is returned to
the consumer:
Provided that no interest shall be payable—
(a) in respect of any part of a calendar
month ; or
(b) if the supply contract of the consumer
is terminated within six months of its
commencement.
15. Every consumer who is supplied with a supply of
water from the Authority shall be liable for all charges and
rates for the water supplied except that the authority may,
with the approval of the Minister waive the charges and rates
to be paid by consumers within any areas specified by the
Authority by notice published in the Gazette.
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 39
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Rates and
charges for
supply of
water.

Second
Schedule.
Reading of
meters.
Consumption
of water and
accounts.
16. (1) The charges and rates for the supply of water by
the Authority shall be calculated in accordance with the
charges and rates determined by the Authority, with the
approval of the Minister from time to time and published in
the Gazette.
(2) The charges for any work done by the Authority on
behalf of the consumer shall be as specified in the Second
Schedule.
17. Meters shall be read at monthly intervals or otherwise
as the Authority may direct.
18. (1) Subject to Regulation 20(2) the consumption of
water by a consumer shall be calculated as follows—
(a) where water is supplied through a
meter;
(i) in the case of a newly affixed
meter, the first reading thereof,
and
(ii) in subsequent cases, on the
basis of the difference between
the last two readings of the
meter;
(b) in the case where water is not
supplied through a meter, as is
specified by the Authority in
accordance with Regulation 15.
(2) Monthly accounts for the quantity of water consumed
shall be prepared by the Authority and shall be delivered to
the consumer in the prescribed form on dates that are
expedient to the Authority:
Provided that failure to prepare or to deliver any account
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
40 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Testing of
meters on
application of
the consumer.

Removal of
meters and
calculation of
rates when
meters remove.
shall be prepared by the Authority and shall be delivered to
any water supplied.
19. (1) If the consumer disputes the accuracy of the meter
from which the supply of water to the consumer is measured
and applies for the meter to be tested then the meter shall be
tested by the Authority.
(2) Any inaccuracy found on the testing of the meter
by the Authority shall be corrected according to the results of
the test.
(3) If the meter is found to be accurate, a fee of five
dollars shall be paid by the consumer for the testing the
meter, and in addition to cause if any of removing and fixing
the meter.
(4) If the meter is found to indicate more or less than
the correct quantity no fee or other charges shall be paid by
the consumer.
(5) A meter shall be deemed to be accurate when on
being tested its inaccuracy does not exceed 5 percent.
20. (1) If a meter is removed, whether for repair or
otherwise, a note giving the reading of the meter shall be left
by the person removing the meter at the premises supplied
with water through and on the replacement of a meter, a note
of the reading at the time of replacement of the meter shall be
left at the premises by the person making the replacement.
(2) The consumption of water in respect of the period
during which meter was out of order or during which the
premises was without a meter shall be calculated, at the
discretion on the Authority, according to the average daily
rate of consumption that is obtained during the period
between any two successive readings when the meter was in
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 41
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Consumer
responsible for
safety of
Authority
installation.

Application for
extension of
main.

Authority may
carry out
extension or
good order or according to the average daily rate of
consumption during the period between two successive
readings immediately before the removal of the meter.
21. (1) The consumer shall be responsible for any
installation, apparatus, supply pipe or meter which has been
installed by the authority on the premises of the consumer
and shall also be liable for any replacement thereof, or for any
repairs, removals or damage, which has been occasioned by
any act on his part or by his agent.
(2) any damage to the supply pipe or meter which could
not have been caused by wear and tear, or the effect of water
flowing through the meter or by any defect in the water
supply system or by any act within the control of the
Authority or by force majeure shall be deemed to have been
the act of the consumer.
22. (1) Subject to Regulation 23, the Authority may
approve an application by a developer for the alteration or
extension of the main for the purpose of a supply of water to
the premises of the developer.
(2) On submitting an application, a developer shall
supply the Authority with plans of the proposed alteration or
extension, an engineer’s report and an estimate of the cost
thereof to the satisfaction of the Authority:
Provided that the Authority may be prepare for the
developer at his request the plans and the estimates of costs
for the proposed alteration and extension on payment by the
developer of a deposit fixed by the Authority and on the
developer undertaking to pay all cost which may be incurred
by the Authority in the preparation thereof.
23. (1) The Authority shall have the right to carry out the
work or any portion thereof approved under Regulation 22(1).
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

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42 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
alteration for
developer.

Developer’s
agreement
with the
Authority.
Third
Schedule.
Supply of
water to trader.
(2) If the Authority exercise the right to carry out
the work or any portion thereof as provided in paragraph (1),
the developer shall pay in advance all estimated costs and
charges to the Authority, and shall be liable for any further
costs and charges which may be incurred by the Authority in
carrying out the work:
Provided that the Authority may, as it thinks fit
discharge any portion of the costs and charges incurred in the
carrying out of the work.
24. Where a developer is permitted to carry out an
approved alteration or extension and the Authority has not
exercised its right under Regulation 23(1) to carry out the
work, and agreement shall be made between the Authority
and the developer incorporating the terms set out in the Third
Schedule.
25.(1) the Authority may provide a supply of water to a
trade for the purpose of resale to the public under the
following conditions—
(a) a supply contract shall be executed
between the trader and the Authority
and a permit for the resale of water is
issued to the trader by the Authority;
(b) the water shall be supplied to the
premises of the trader through a
meter equipped with a back-flow
prevention device;
(c) the water to be supplied by the trader
to the public shall be in containers
approved by the Authority;
(d) the Authority has a right to inspect
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LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 43
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Stand-pipes
may be
provided by
Local
Authority for
certain
residents.

Application for
and installation
of fire fighting
device.
the containers periodically, to ensure
that they are kept in a sanitary
condition;
(e) the resale price of water is approved
by Authority and shall be displayed
by the trader on the water containers
of the trader.
(2) The Authority shall have the right to cancel the permit
granted under paragraph (1)(a) if a trader contravenes any of
the provisions of this regulation:
Provided that the permit may be re-issued by the
Authority to the trader on the compliance with this
regulation.
26. (1) Where a number of residents of any one within
a local government authority is not being provided with a
supply of water, the local government authority may apply to
the Authority for water to be supplied to the residents
through public stand-pipes.
(2)Where an application is made under paragraph (1) the
Authority shall provide the public stand-pipes required and
supply water for the residents of the area provided that the
cost (including the material and labour for installing such
pipes) and the charges for the water supplied are defrayed by
the local government authority.
27. (1) A consumer may declare in an application for the
water to be supplied to the consumer is solely for the purpose
of fire fighting.
(2) Where a consumer make such declaration, the
Authority shall inspect the installation of the consumer and
disconnect all pipes, taps, outlet and other devices not
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LAWS OF GUYANA
44 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Fourth
Schedule.
Water supplied
for fire fighting
purposes.
Prohibiting
breaking seals
on devices for
fire fighting.
required or adapted for the purpose of fire fighting.
(3)The Authority may then provide, as required by the
consumer, sprinkle, hydrants, hose outlet, stand-pipes and
other apparatus for the supply of water for the purpose of fire
fighting and the consumer shall be liable to pay the cost
thereby incurred by the Authority and shall pay such charges
as are provided for in the Fourth Schedule.
(4) All fire fighting device and apparatus connected to
the main by the Authority for fire fighting purpose shall have
the seal of the Authority affixed thereto, and shall be
examined by the Authority at such periods as the Authority
thinks fit.
28. (1) The connection to the main of a supply of water
for the purpose of fire fighting shall be separate from, and
independent of, the connection to the main for the supply of
water to the premises for domestic use and shall be used only
for fire fighting purposes.

(2) No additional hydrant, fire-plug, pipe, tap, or other
device of any description shall be connected, or any extension
or addition made to the connection of the main for a supply of
water for the purpose of fire fighting, without a written
permission of the Authority.
29. (1) A consumer shall not break any seal affixed by the
Authority to any fire fighting device or apparatus, except that
in the event of fire the consumer may break the seal but he
must notify the Authority within forty-eight hours thereafter.
(2) (a) A consumer may, on written permission being
granted by the Authority, open up the fire fighting supply to
ensure that it is in good working order.
(b) Permission to open the fire fighting supply shall
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 45
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Power to cut
off supply of
water.
Charges in
respect of
disconnected
premises may
be added to
account for
connected
premises.
be granted by the Authority to the consumer twice annually
and at such other times as the Authority may deem necessary
provided that any opening up of the supply by the consumer
shall be done in the presence of an authorised person of the
Authority who shall affix new seals thereafter.
MISCELLANEOUS
30. (1) The Authority may cut off the supply of water to a
consumer—
(a) if the consumer fails to comply with
any of the terms of his supply contract
or with these Regulations;
(b) if there is no valid contract in force in
relation to such supply; or
(c) if the consumer fails to pay any sum
of money due to the Authority for
water supplied to him within seven
days after an account has been
submitted to him therefor.
(2) If the supply of water to a consumer is cut off the
supply shall be restored to the premises on the consumer
complying with the supply contract and these Regulations
and on the payment of all sums due to the Authority together
with ay charge made by the Authority for the cost of restoring
the supply of water.
31. If a consumer is being supplied with water by the
Authority at two or more premises and the supply of water at
one or more such premises has been cut off at the request of
the consumer or in pursuance of these Regulations, the
Authority may include any amount due in respect of the
disconnected supply in the account of any other premises of
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
46 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Temporary
disconnection
of supply.
Unauthorised
reconnection.
Consumer
installations.
Estimate of
quantity of
water
consumed.
the consumer which remains connected for the supply of
water, and for the purpose of these Regulations, the amount
so included shall be deemed to form part of the account
rendered for the supply of water to the premises which
remained connected.
32. The Authority may temporarily cut off the supply of
water to the premises of any consumer for the purpose of
testing or effecting repairs to its water system of any of its
installation, whether inside or outside the premises at any
time on any event occurring, which affects or may affect the
proper working or such system or installation and shall be
liable for any damage or loss caused thereby.
33. Where a supply of water has been cut off in
pursuance of these Regulations no person other than the
Authority or anyone acting on its behalf shall reconnect the
same.
34. (1) Every consumer shall be responsible for
maintaining the pipes, connections, and all installations
belonging to him on his premises in a safe condition to the
satisfaction of the Authority.
(2) If the Authority is satisfied that any installation
or apparatus of a consumer is defective, the Authority may
cut off the supply of water to the premises and the supply
shall not be restored unless the defect has been remedied to
the satisfaction of the Authority.
35. If the Authority is unable to secure access to a meter
on the premises of a consumer for the purpose of reading it,
the Authority may determine the quantity of water supplied
to the premises on the basis of the average monthly
consumption by the consumer for the previous three months:
Provided that the method of determination the quantity
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LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 47
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Water from
any other
source not to
mix with water
supplied by the
Authority.

Removal of
installation
upon
termination of
contract.
\
Temporary
water supply.
of water supplied under the foregoing provision may not be
employed for more than two consecutive months, and if
thereafter the Authority is unable to secure access to the meter
of the consumer for the purpose of reading the meter the
Authority may, without notice, cut off the supply of water to
the premises.
36. (1) No person shall make any connection to any main
thereby causing water from any other source to pollute water
supplied by the Authority.
(2) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph (1), the
Authority may permit water storage container of such other
connection that conveys water from any other source to be
connected to the main if the following devices are installed to
the satisfaction of the Authority, that is to say—

(a) an air-gap separation device between
the main and the water storage tank;
or
(b) a double check valve assembly or
such other device approved by the
Authority.
37. Upon termination of a supply contract the Authority
may remove from the premises of the consumer the meter, the
supply pipes and other installations belonging to the
Authority.
38. The Authority may allow temporary connections to
the main to be made for a period not exceeding one year:
Provided that—
(a) the Authority shall determine the size
and location of the connections;
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48 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Use of water
without
application.

Tampering
with apparatus
of the
Authority.

Consumption
of water which
is not
registered
through a
meter.
(b) regulations 3 and 7 are complied with;
and
(c) the applicant pays in advance the
estimates cost and charge tendered by
the Authority.
39. Where water from the Authority is being used
without an application having been first made in accordance
with regulation 5, the consumer shall be liable on summary
conviction to a fine of one hundred dollars, and a further fine
of fifteen dollars for each day during which the offence
continues:
Provided that the consumer shall not be guilty of an
offence under this regulation where after the commencement
of these Regulations or after an area has become an area of
supply of water by the Authority, the Authority has fixed a
period during which applications for the supply of water shall
be made by consumers and the period fixed had not expired
at the time the water was being used by the consumer.
40. Any person who tampers with or causes to be
damaged any main, meter, or stand-pipe or with any seal
attached to a meter or a fire fighting device, shall be liable on
summary conviction to a fine of one hundred dollars.
41. Every consumer upon whose premises if found any
device or article means so connected is to be capable of
altering the index to any meter or prevents any meter from
duly measuring, ascertaining or registering the quantity of
water supplied of by means of which water might be
fraudulently abstracted, consumed or diverted shall be liable
to a summary conviction to a fine of one hundred and fifty
dollars and a further fine of fifteen dollars for each day during
which the offence continues and the Authority may, in
addition, recover from such consumer the amount of any loss
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 49
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

Wastage of
water.
Unapproved
connection.
General
penalty.
or damage sustained by it.
42. Any consumer who causes, permits, allows or suffers
any wastage of water—
(a) which is not due to a defect of an
installation of the Authority; or
(b) which is due to a defect of an
installation of the Authority but
which the consumer fails to give
notice thereof to the Authority,

shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of seventy-five
dollars and to a further fine of fifteen dollars for each day
during which the offence continues.
(2) The Authority may enter any premises supplied with
water in order to examine if there is any wastage or misuse of
water; and in the officer on satisfactory identification of
himself is refused admission to the premises or is obstructed
in the making such examination the purpose so doing shall be
liable to a fine of one hundred dollars.
43. Any person who connects a pump to the main or by
any device pumps water directly from a main without the
written approval of the Authority shall be liable on summary
conviction to a fine of one hundred dollars.
44. Any person who commits any offence under these
Regulations for which no punishment is specifically provided
shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine of one
hundred dollars.
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
50 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Reg. 13(1)
Reg.16(2)
Reg. 24
FIRST SCHEDULE
Where water supplied through a meter, the following
deposits shall be paid by the consumer for the meter on
approval of his application—
SIZE OF THE METER OR
SERVICE CONNECTION DEPOSITS
$ c.
5/8 16.00
¾ “ 28.00
1” 52.00
1 ½ 120.00
2” 248.00
3” 514.00
4” 1,002.00
6” 1,900.00
_____________
SECOND SCHEULE
The consumer shall pay for repairs, servicing or any other
work carried out by the Authority on behalf of the consumer,
such charges being the actual cost of the work done which
includes cost of materials, labour any expenses incurred as
estimated by the Authority.
______________
THIRD SCHEDULE
TERMS TO BE INSERTED IN A WRITTEN
AGREEMENT WITH THE DEVELOPER
(1) The alternation and extension shall be carried out
by contractors and plumbers approved by the
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulations

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Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 51
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
Authority.
(2) The alteration and extension shall be to the
specification in the approved plan and under the
supervision of the Authority.
(3) The alteration and extension shall be maintained by
the developer for one year after the installation
thereof.
(4) The developer shall indemnify the Authority from
any liability arising out of the alteration or
extension undertaken.
(5) The developer shall pay any cost which may be
incurred on account of the re-location of the main to
provide for the installation of the approved
alteration or extension.
___________
FOURTH SCHEDULE
(1) There shall be charged for each fire fighting
hydrant or device five dollars per annum.
(2) There shall be paid for each occasion on which
any hydrant, fire plug of fire fighting device is used by a
consumer the sum of twenty-five dollars, and the fact that the
seal on any such device were found to be broken at the time of
inspection and examination shall be prima facie evidence that
such hydrant, fire plug or fire fighting has been used:
Provided that this payment shall be waive where the
consumer notifies the Authority in writing of the use of any
such hydrant, fire plug or fire fighting device for fire fighting
purpose within forty-eight hours of such use and the
Guyana Water Authority Supply Regulation

LAWS OF GUYANA
52 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012

O. 20/1977
Citation.
Definitions.

Vesting of
undertaking.
Vesting of
other assets.
Authority on inspection of the premises is satisfied that the
hydrant, fire plug or fire fighting device was used bona fide
for fire fighting purposes only.
_____________
GUYANA WATER AUTHORITY
(ACQUISITION) ORDER.
1. (1) This Order may be cited as the Guyana Water
Authority (Acquisition) Order, 1977.

(2) This Order shall come into operation on the
expiration of one month from the date of the making hereof.
2. In this Order—
“committee” means the committee established by the
Sugar Industry Special Funds Act to control the Sugar
Industry Labour Welfare Fund;
“the undertaking” means the sewerage and water service
and systems owned, provided and operated by the committee
within that area of Guyana extending from the eastern
boundary of the Enmore/Hope Government District of the
western boundary of the Foulis/Buxton Local Government
District.
3. On the coming into operation of this Order the
undertaking of the Committee shall vest in the Authority.
4. For the purpose of the Vesting referred to in clause # 3
the property set out in the schedule, being the assets
(including rights and interests) of the committee and used by
it in the carrying on of the undertaking, shall vest in the
Authority.
Guyana Water uthority (Acquisition) Order
LAWS OF GUYANA
Guyana Water Authority Cap. 55:01 53
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnissance-Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
5. The Authority shall continue to employ any person
exclusively employed immediately before the coming into
operation of this Order in the service of the undertaking on
such terms and conditions as may be agreed on between the
Authority and such person:
Provided that any person who is so employed by the
Authority shall be employed on terms and conditions which
taken as a whole are no less favourable than those applicable
on him immediately before the coming into operation of this
Order.
SCHEDULE
1. The rights and interest of the committee in and over—
(a) Plot “X” being a portion of state land
held under licence of the Occupancy
No. 2753 situate in Pln. Non Pareil
(East), East Coast Demerara, Guyana
as shown and defined on a Plan by F.
R. Lee, Sworn Land Surveyor, dated
9th October, 1976, and recorded in the
department of Lands and Surveys as
Plan No 17246
(b) Plot “A” being a portion of
Government Land known as Tract
“F” situate in Pln. Hope, East Coast ,
Demerara , Guyana as showed and
defined on a Plan by F. R. Lee, sworn
Lands Surveyor dated 9th October,
1976, and recorded in the Department
of Lands and Surveys as Plan No.
17247.
2. (a) Pipelines and water distribution
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L.R.O. 1/2012
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54 Cap. 55:01 Guyana Water Authority
[Subsidiary] Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) (La Reconnaissance- Mon Repos,
Soesdyke) Order
L.R.O. 1/2012
mains including hydrants, valves
with over-trench trestles and
structures, bridges, culverts and
fences.
(b) wells complete with deep turbine and
submersible pumps and ancillary
equipment;
(c) pump houses and switch gear houses
complete with diesel engines, fuel
tanks, switch gears, motors, auto-
transformers, electrical fittings and
other equipment, furniture and
fittings therein; and
(d) overhead tanks, ground level tanks,
steel towers for elevated tanks.
_____________________


Guyana Water Authority (Acquisition) Order