If you want to know more about the price of water in the UK and how your bill is calculated, this guide will help you better understand water prices

UK water rates differ depending on where you live and how you are charged. Find out what makes up your water bill and how water rates work.

Most recent changes:

In early 2015, it was announced that water costs would drop by 2%, putting the average UK household’s bill for water and sewage at £385 per year, or about £32 per month. This news came after an Ofwat investigation into water prices in the UK found that tougher rules over water company profits were in order.

On April 1st, 2014, a 2% increase (roughly £8) was announced, pushing up the average UK’s household bill for water and sewerage to £393 per year.

Previously, on the 1st of April 2013, a rise of 3.5% on the average water bill was implemented across the UK. This saw a typical annual bill for water and sewerage rise from £375 in 2012 to £388 in 2013.

How do water rates work across the UK?

In England and Wales there are regional differences in domestic water rates. Your domestic water rate will depend on the availability of water in your region and the size of your region.

The majority of people are charged a yearly water rate which covers the domestic water supply and associated costs such as maintaining water quality. A minority of people have a water meter instead, which in some cases may prove a cheaper alternative.

 

How can I save or cut cost  on my next  water bill?

There are a range of water-efficiency products that can help you. These include:

• A water meter calculates your household water use – some people can save money by switching to a water meter. Find out more about water meters.
• A water displacement device, also known as a hippo or save-a-flush, goes in your toilet cistern and reduces the water used each time you flush. Most water suppliers will provide them free.
• A shower timer can encourage you to spend less time in the shower which will reduce your water use.
• A water butt collects rainwater for you to use on the garden and in your appliances, reducing your mains water