How To Get A New Water Connection In Bengaluru: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting a new water connection in Bengaluru is a key step for anyone moving into a newly built house, apartment, or commercial property. The process is handled by the Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewerage Board, commonly known as BWSSB. While the application system has moved largely online, many applicants still find the process confusing due to documentation requirements, inspections, and cost calculations.

Here is a clear guide to how a new water connection works in Bengaluru, what documents you need, how much it costs, and how long it usually takes.

Who Can Apply for a New Water Connection

A new water connection can be applied for by property owners whose buildings fall within BWSSB supply limits. This includes individual houses, apartments, and

commercial buildings. Properties must have a valid khata and approved building plan.

Illegal or unauthorised constructions are not eligible for a regular BWSSB connection. If the property already has a connection in a previous owner’s name, you will need to apply for a transfer instead of a new connection.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply

The application for a new water connection is done online through the BWSSB portal.

First, the applicant must register on the BWSSB website using a mobile number and email ID. After logging in, select the option for a new water and sewerage connection and fill in property details such as address, ward number, and type of usage.

Next, upload the required documents. Once the application is submitted, BWSSB officials will verify the details and schedule a site inspection. After inspection approval, the applicant will be asked to pay the prescribed charges. The connection is provided after payment confirmation and final approval.

Documents Required

Applicants must keep the following documents ready:

Khata certificate or khata extract
Sale deed or property ownership document
Approved building plan issued by the local authority
Latest property tax paid receipt
Occupancy certificate, if applicable
Identity proof of the applicant

All documents must be clear and match the property details entered in the application. Any mismatch can delay approval.

Inspection and Approval Process

After submission, BWSSB assigns a field engineer to inspect the property. The inspection checks whether the building follows the approved plan, whether there is space for a water meter, and whether sewer connectivity is feasible.

If discrepancies are found, applicants may be asked to submit clarifications or make changes before approval. Once cleared, the application moves to the payment stage.

Expenses and Charges Involved

The cost of a new water connection in Bengaluru depends on several factors, including plot size, type of building, and usage category.

For residential properties, charges typically include:

Water connection fee based on plot area
Sewerage connection fee
Meter cost
Road cutting charges, if applicable
Security deposit

For an independent house, the total cost usually ranges from Rs 15,000 to Rs 40,000. For apartments and commercial buildings, the cost is higher and calculated based on built-up area and number of units.

Exact charges are auto-calculated by the BWSSB system during application and must be paid online.

Timeline for Getting the Connection

If all documents are in order and there are no objections, the process usually takes between 15 and 30 working days. Delays can occur due to inspection backlogs, document issues, or pending road-cutting permissions.

Applicants can track the status of their application online using the reference number provided at submission.

Water Source and Supply Reality

BWSSB connections supply Cauvery water where infrastructure exists. In some areas, especially on the city’s outskirts, supply may be mixed with borewell water or tanker support. A BWSSB connection does not guarantee round-the-clock water supply, but it provides a legal and regulated source.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting incomplete documents
Applying without an approved building plan
Incorrect khata details
Assuming borewell water can replace BWSSB approval

Ensuring paperwork is complete before applying saves time and repeat visits.

A BWSSB water connection is essential for legal occupancy and long-term water security in Bengaluru. While the process involves multiple steps, applying online with proper documents makes it manageable. Planning ahead and understanding the costs can help homeowners avoid delays and unexpected expenses.