Falling behind on water bills can feel overwhelming, but here is the most important thing to know: your water supply can never be disconnected in the UK. There are real solutions available, and we are here to help you find the right one.
Water bill debt is more common than you might think. Thousands of households across the UK struggle with water arrears every year, and it is nothing to be ashamed of. Whether you have missed a few payments, received a large bill you were not expecting, or have been carrying water debt for some time, there is help available.
Unlike other household debts, water bill debt comes with an important protection: your water company cannot disconnect your supply. This gives you time and space to find the right solution. From payment plans and social tariffs to the WaterSure scheme and formal debt solutions, there are options to help you get back on track without the fear of losing an essential service.
Under the Water Industry Act 1999, it is illegal for water companies to disconnect domestic water supplies in England and Wales. No matter how much you owe, your taps will keep running. This law exists because water is recognised as essential to life and health. So please do not worry about your supply being cut off. Instead, let us focus on finding the best way to deal with the arrears.
Water debt can take different forms depending on how you pay and what charges you have fallen behind on. Understanding your situation is the first step towards finding the right solution.
If you have a water meter and have fallen behind on bills based on your actual usage. Metered customers may benefit from checking for leaks, as your company may reduce your bill if a leak was responsible for unusually high charges.
If you pay a fixed annual charge based on the rateable value of your property and have missed payments. You may be able to request a free water meter, which could lower your bill if you use less water than the average household.
Most households pay for both water supply and sewerage services. If you have fallen behind on either or both, your water company will usually combine the arrears into a single balance and offer you one payment plan to cover everything.
Older water debt from a previous address that you may have moved on from. Water companies can pursue arrears for up to six years under the Limitation Act, so it is worth checking whether old debts are still enforceable before agreeing to pay.
There are several ways to deal with water bill arrears, from simple payment plans with your water company to formal debt solutions that can include water debt alongside your other debts.
Contact your water company to arrange affordable repayments based on your income and expenses. They are obligated to work with you and offer a realistic plan.
Best for: People who can afford reduced payments and want to clear arrears over time
A government backed scheme that caps your metered water bill at the average rate for your area. Available to households receiving means-tested benefits with either a large family or a medical need for extra water.
Best for: Metered customers on benefits with large families or medical conditions requiring extra water
A legally binding 60 month plan that includes water arrears alongside your other debts. Remaining debt is written off at the end of the arrangement.
Best for: People with multiple debts totalling over £6,000 who can afford regular monthly payments
Learn moreCombine water bill arrears with other debts into one affordable monthly payment. A debt advisor negotiates with your creditors on your behalf.
Best for: People with multiple debts who want a flexible, informal repayment plan
Learn moreNot sure which option is right for you?
Get free adviceIf you are on a low income, you may be eligible for schemes that can significantly reduce your water bill. These are not loans and do not need to be repaid.
WaterSure caps your water bill at the average household bill for your area. To qualify, you need to meet all three conditions:
Apply directly through your water company. There is no charge to apply.
Most water companies offer their own social tariff schemes that can reduce your bill by up to 50% or more. These vary by company but commonly include:
Contact your water company or visit the CCW website to find your local schemes.
If water bill arrears are just one of several debts you are dealing with, a formal or informal debt solution could help you manage everything together.
An Individual Voluntary Arrangement is a legally binding agreement with your creditors that lasts 60 months. Water bill arrears can be included alongside credit cards, loans, and other unsecured debts.
A Debt Management Plan is a more flexible, informal arrangement where a debt advisor negotiates with your creditors to agree lower monthly payments on your behalf.
Understanding your rights can reduce a lot of the worry around water bill debt. Water companies have limited powers compared to many other creditors.
If you are receiving letters or calls about water bill arrears, try not to panic. The best thing you can do is respond and engage with your water company. They would much rather agree a payment plan with you than go through the courts. If you are feeling overwhelmed, a free debt advisor can contact them on your behalf and negotiate for you. You do not have to deal with this alone.
Whether you need help with water bill arrears, want to find out about payment plans and social tariffs, or are looking for a longer term debt solution, we are here to help. Our free assessment takes just 2 minutes.
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Include water arrears in a legally binding plan that writes off remaining debt after 60 months.