"LSR" wrote in message
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....
If the water goes back into the sewer system (eventually) he's only
borrowed it. He's not "permanently deprived the owner with intent", so
it's not theft.

He is taking potable water (fluid category 1 in the language of the Water
Regulations) and returning grey water or soil (fluid category 2,3,4, or 5).
He is, therefore, permanently depriving the owner of the substance he
received.

Colin Bignell