Water companies across England and Wales have announced that from April 2022 the average water bill is increasing by 1.7%. While the average bill increase is lower than inflation this year, I am aware of the impact this may have on Hertford and Stortford residents.
Water companies need to talk to their customers and explain their charges.
Some customers are facing hardships and an increase in water bills may add to existing financial pressures. Where customers are in vulnerable circumstances or have financial difficulties, offering help and support to those who need it must be a priority for companies.
Research from Ofwat, the Water Services Regulation Authority, shows that 15% of customers are aware of the financial help available to them and that only 3% are accessing financial support from their water company. To that end, I wanted to share four actions that you can take if you are struggling to pay.
Contact the water company
The best way for customers to get help is to contact their water company. Companies have a wide range of schemes and tariffs which could help reduce bills, relieve payment pressure or help with debt.
Constituents can find out which company supplies their water and wastewater services on Water UK's website.
Consider a free water meter
A water meter means customers pay for the water they use, rather than paying a fixed price. If local residents are in a smaller household, single occupants, or low water users, this may help you save money.
To arrange this, or to discuss what impact this may have on bills, you should speak to your water company. This water meter calculator might help you to decide whether to explore this option further.
Access the support available
Support is available from water companies and organisations outside of the water sector. You may find it helpful to explore whether you are accessing the help you are entitled to via online support tools.
Reach out to the Consumer Council for Water (CCW)
CCW is the main consumer body for the water sector and may be able to help when you have problems with your water bills. The best way to contact CCW is via their website. However, constituents can also call: 0300 034 2222.