Business water: same pipes, better service, fewer billing errors.
Businesses in England and Scotland can choose who bills them for water and wastewater. Here’s how the market works and what’s on your bill — and you can register for our water service before it launches.
Can my business switch?
It depends where your premises are.
Yes — most businesses can switch.
Since 1 April 2017, non-household customers in England have been able to choose their water and wastewater retailer. Offices, shops, pubs, charities and public-sector sites all count as non-household.
What’s on a business water bill
Five charges. At least one is usually worth questioning.
Water supply
Metered clean water, plus a standing charge based on your meter size. An oversized meter can cost more than the water.
Wastewater
Usually assumed to be a percentage of the water you use. If water goes into your product or evaporates, you may be able to claim an allowance.
Surface water drainage
Rainwater from your roof and yard. If it drains to a soakaway rather than the public sewer, you may be paying for something you don’t use.
Highways drainage
A contribution to draining public roads, typically based on rateable value or site area.
Trade effluent
For businesses discharging process water — kitchens, laundries, manufacturing. Needs consent and is charged on volume and strength.
Your retailer
Billing, meter reads, account management and customer service.
Your wholesaler
The regional water company still owns the pipes, treats the water and fixes network leaks.
Your bill
Meter size, drainage charges and estimated reads — on every site.
Launching soon
Get first access to our business water service.
Business water FAQs
The usual questions.
Will switching water retailer interrupt my supply?
No. Your water comes through the same pipes from the same regional wholesaler. Only the company that bills and serves you changes.
Is my business eligible to switch water retailer?
In England, most non-household premises can choose their retailer. In Scotland, all non-household customers can. In Wales, only very large users can.
What is surface water drainage?
A charge for rainwater that runs off your roof and yard into the public sewer. If your site drains to a soakaway instead, you may be able to apply for a reduction.
I’ve been billed on estimates for months. What should I do?
Ask your retailer for actual meter reads and check your meter size and drainage charges. Estimated bills can lead to large catch-up bills later.