Average water bill falls but many consumers to see price increases

23rd February 2010

Although average water bills across England and Wales will remain relatively steady over the next year, it's mixed news for customers as some bills will go down and some up, says the Consumer Council for Water (CCW).

Prices announced today by the water regulator, Ofwat, show that the average water bill for the next year will be £339, a decrease of 0.8%.

This follows Ofwat's decision last November on the prices water and sewerage companies could charge customers between 2010 and 2015. The regulator challenged water companies' investment proposals to ensure that average bills will remain broadly stable until 2015 and around 10% (£34) lower than what the companies asked for.

However, despite the average water bill going down, many customers across the country will see their bills go up.

For example, while customers of United Utilities Water are likely to see a price decrease of £16 on the average bill, customers of Northumbrian Water may see an £11 price increase. There are also variations in prices between customers who have a water meter and those who do not.

The CCW is urging people to do their homework and consider looking into having a water meter installed as this will save money for some. For those struggling to pay their water bills, the group advises they should contact their water company immediately who may offer more flexible payment options.

Dame Yve Buckland, Chair of the Consumer Council for Water, said: ""These measures can only serve as a stop gap for a much wider problem, as today one in six customers tell us that they cannot afford their water charges.

"We are continuing to press the Government to help those struggling to pay their water bills, instead of pushing the problem back on to other water customers."

Useful links:

How to complain about utility bills

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